When it comes to home improvement projects, the DIY (do-it-yourself) approach can save you money and give you a great sense of accomplishment. But when it comes to vinyl fence installation, there are some pitfalls that can quickly eat into those savings. Mistakes like overlooked building regulations, improperly set posts, or ill-advised prep work can lead to costly and difficult fixes down the road.
A quality vinyl fence will add curb appeal to your home and increase its value. However, it’s important to remember that DIY projects can be challenging and a little dangerous. This article will discuss some of the things you need to know for your vinyl fence project before you dive in.
First and foremost, check with your local government regulations before beginning. This will ensure that your fence meets all requirements and doesn’t violate any property lines or violate your neighbors’ rights. It will also help you determine what type of footings you’ll need to dig and how much concrete will be needed for each post.
Next, purchase all of the supplies you will need for your vinyl fence installation. This will include vinyl fencing material, fence gates, and post caps. You’ll also need a shovel, a wheelbarrow or wheelboss, and a sledgehammer or crowbar. Before digging your post holes, you’ll want to prepare the area by removing any roots or rocks that could interfere with the integrity of the post hole. You can use a garden hose to water the area and loosen up the soil. Then, you can use a post-hole digger to dig each hole to the proper depth and shape. Once each hole is dug, mix concrete in a wheelboss and fill each hole until it is two feet deep. Once the concrete is mixed, set each vinyl fence post and use a level to ensure that it is plumb from front to back and side to side.
Once the posts are installed, you can begin to install the fence panels. While this may sound easy, it’s important to take your time and make sure each panel is even before moving on to the next one. Otherwise, you’ll spend more time trying to fix uneven panels later.
When installing the panels, pay special attention to the corners. Make sure they are perfectly aligned with each other and the corner posts before screwing them into place. This will ensure a tight seal and prevent any leaks down the line.
Finally, inspect your vinyl fence regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you do notice any damage, don’t hesitate to contact a professional fence contractor. The right repairs can help to preserve your vinyl fence for a long time and help you get the most out of this maintenance-free investment. You should also be sure to look for a warranty from a reputable dealer and manufacturer. This will provide peace of mind that your vinyl fence is backed by a fence company that stands behind their product.