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FAQ

Vinyl Fence - Frequently Asked Questions

What advantages does vinyl fencing have compared to wood?

Vinyl fencing is preferred product by most homeowners and companies because it does not corrode or damage due to the elements, it requires no maintenance such as painting or sanding, it does not adhere to concrete which makes it easier to install and repair, and it withstands higher winds than wood fences because of its ability to flex in the high winds instead of buckling or snapping in half.

How can I clean my vinyl fence?

It is recommended that you clean your vinyl fence from time to time in order to maintain a high quality appearance. Simply spray off any dirt or grass clippings with your garden hose. For tougher stains and marks from your lawn mower tires or graffiti, lightly apply lacquer thinner or "Simple Green" and rinse.

Is it normal for my vinyl fence to move in the wind?

Yes. In fact vinyl fencing is designed to be flexible under high winds in order to prevent the product from buckling or snapping.

What is the difference between mono and co-extrusion?

There are two ways to manufacture vinyl: Mono- and Co- Extrusion. Both are processes by which liquid polyvinyl is entered into a machine that molds and forms the liquid solution into a solid vinyl unit. Mono-extrusion is a single step process where a consistent blend of virgin vinyl compound and UV protecting agents are sent through the extrusion machine only once. Co-extrusion is simply a two step extrusion process. The first step is for an inner core using less chemicals. Then, the inner core blend is sent through another machine where a thin outer layer of virgin vinyl is extruded or laminated onto the core. The difference between the two is that the mono-extruded vinyl is one solid piece of virgin vinyl and the co-extruded vinyl consists of two similar products extruded together as one.

Will lawn mowers and edger's damage my fence?

It is advised that care be taken when using yard tools around your fence to prevent scratching or marking your product. A commonly used method is to pour a cement mow strip underneath the posts so as to prevent wear and tear.

Is "dry mixing" or "wet mixing" the best way to install fence posts?

While the majority of concrete manufacturers and fence installation companies have long preferred dry mixing, test results and real world experience have shown that both methods are equal in terms of strength, adhesion and durability.

What makes one brand of vinyl fence material better than another in terms of wind resistance, sagging, and overall quality?

It is important to insist on quality components throughout the fence. However, the strength and design of the rail is of utmost importance due to the role the rail plays in the overall wind resistance of the fence. A well designed 8 inch vinyl rail without steel in it, has been shown to be stronger than a 5.5 inch vinyl rail with steel in it. Post spacing is also key ...having no more than 6 feet between posts creates the strongest overall fence. A variety of different panel/slat designs can work equally well as long as the rail design and post spacing are correct.

Is steel needed in vinyl fence posts and rails?

Steel is only necessary in vinyl gate posts, not vinyl fence posts or rails. One of the things that makes vinyl fence posts stand up well in the wind is that they flex. Steel in fence posts would detract from this. Some companies may place a small, flat piece of metal near the top of the post to hold the top rails in place, and sell this as "steel in every post". This is one of several effective ways to attach rails, but does not increase post strength. As noted above, a well designed 8 inch vinyl rail without steel in it, has been shown to be stronger than a 5.5 inch vinyl rail with steel in it.

What is the key to a high quality, long lasting vinyl gate?

Vinyl gates are made many different ways. Some are built with only vinyl components, some have diagonal tension cables, and some have aluminum corners that are riveted or screwed together. Insist on gates that have fully welded inner-steel frames, which prevent sagging and provide the highest level of strength, durability and customer satisfaction.

What should I look for in a material warranty and a labor warranty?

It is unlikely that you will have any issues with vinyl fence material, if it is manufactured in the U.S. However, you should still insist on a lifetime, non-prorated, transferable material warranty. Regarding fence installation companies, you should always go with one that is well established, licensed, insured and one that offers a multi-year labor warranty through the actual company (not through it's sub-contractors).