If you’re looking for an attractive fence that’s easy to care for and offers a variety of advantages over wood, vinyl fencing is the right choice. It doesn’t require painting or staining, it doesn’t warp, it won’t crack, and it is able to withstand the elements without falling prey to insects and pests.
It’s also more affordable than wood and is backed by a lifetime warranty. The only maintenance required for vinyl fencing is a few hose blasts and occasional cleaning with a spray of water or a mild dish soap to remove dirt and other debris.
You can also choose from a variety of colors and textures, adding some personality to your fence. The most common color is white, but other shades are available too. Some fence companies even offer faux-wood grain and faux-stone finishes for an added look.
The cost of a vinyl fence depends on the style, the amount of material needed, and the size of the yard to be covered. A simple vinyl picket fence with a basic post is generally less than half of the price of a wooden fence, which can be made of cedar, redwood, pine, spruce or even wood composites.
There are no gaps in a vinyl fence, which is great for privacy. It eliminates the need to plant bushes or hedges, which are sometimes planted for looks only and that may not provide enough privacy.
When it comes to installation, most vinyl fence sections come unassembled and are easy to put together on the jobsite. The bottom rails slide into the posts and then the pickets are inserted into the top rail. In some cases, the posts are drilled to accept the pickets. Often the posts are reinforced with aluminum, which helps to prevent them from bowing or sagging under the weight of the gate and hardware.
Some vinyl fences include a gate that matches the fence style and is usually hung from the post with hinges or latches. This type of gate is referred to as a single or double gate and can have an arch or scalloped design.
While wood and iron can be damaged in just about any climate, vinyl fencing is a good option for any place you live. The durable materials and cutting-edge manufacturing process make vinyl up to five times stronger than a traditional wood fence, so it’s much less likely to sag or bend in the wind or splinter when exposed to harsh weather.
Whether you have pets or children, vinyl fences are a great way to keep them safely in your yard. They are more secure than wooden or metal fences and a good choice for dogs, cats, pigs and rabbits, too.
The most common color for vinyl fences is white, but many homeowners want a color that adds some interest to the fence. Solid colors like tan, grey and mocha add anywhere from 10% to 15% to the overall cost of the fence, so it’s important to know what you want in order to stay within your budget.