A fence is a structure constructed with wires, pickets, wood, wattle, hurdle, cactus, pole, rail, or vinyl to create boundaries or serve as protection from intruders.
There are several reasons why people construct a fence. Here are some of them:
- Fences can be used to provide privacy and security.
- A fence is sometimes constructed to prevent trespassers or thieves.
- Fences can be used to keep toddlers and pets from wandering away.
- Fences stand a good chance of enhancing the appearance of a property, garden, or other forms of landscape.
- Fences can also be used to demarcate a piece of property from another.
- In situations where access control is required, fences are sometimes used to restrict or direct movement, especially on building and construction sites.
- A fence is an excellent option to prevent people from falling over an edge, as seen in balconies and stairways.
What is a Vinyl Fence?
A vinyl fence is a fence that utilizes synthetic manufactured plastic materials made from ethylene and chloride. Vinyl fences are manufactured in various colors and styles, from short picket fences to tall privacy fences.
As regards durability, vinyl fences stand a better chance than wood fences. However, vinyl fences can be modified and textured to look like wood fences without decaying since the plastic material it’s made from makes it impossible for the fences to rot or crack. Additionally, vinyl fences are easy to maintain and long-lasting.
What Are the Types of Vinyl Fences To Choose From?
Vinyl fences come in a variety of parts and colors, including black, white, tan, gray, and wood grain, making it possible to blend the colors of your desired space with the fence. Some of the styles of Vinyl fences include:
- Vinyl Picket Fence
Vinyl picket fencing comprises posts ranging from 3 ft to 5 ft in height with two horizontal rails, two vertical pillars, and several pickets. Vinyl picket fences require minimal maintenance and can serve decorative and functional purposes.
- Vinyl Privacy Fence
A vinyl privacy fence is a type of privacy fence built using panels that are 8 inches wide and 6 inches high. As the name suggests, vinyl privacy fences serve the major purpose of providing privacy. Hence, it possesses no see-through features, providing utmost privacy and confidentiality.
Also, you can utilize several colors when designing your vinyl privacy fence.
- Vinyl Post and Rail Fences
Vinyl post and rail fencing, sometimes called “split rail” or “ranch rail,” is usually found on farms and ranches and is strong enough to keep large animals contained.
Vinyl post rail fences are great for agricultural purposes, housing developments, and other large businesses.
- Semi-Privacy Vinyl Fence Panel
Semi-privacy fence offers a unique blend of privacy and airflow allowance. They utilize vinyl panels similar to a privacy fence but with tiny spaces in between their pickets.
- Horizontal Vinyl Fence
This type of fence mounts its pickets horizontally, utilizing several colors and styles in its construction.
- Vinyl Lattice Fence
The vinyl lattice fence has its pickets designed in small squares allowing minimal privacy and airflow. It has a smooth surface and is resistant to insects, mold, and mildew. In addition, unlike wood lattice, vinyl lattice doesn’t crack or peel.
Vinyl Fence Installation
Installing a vinyl fence requires skill, especially in putting together the interlocking pieces required to create the fence. Moreover, short vinyl fences are easier to install than tall vinyl privacy fences.
For the picket fences, drill anchor pipes into the ground with a sledgehammer, place the vinyl fence posts over the pipes and then interlock the rails and pickets. But for a taller installation, you’d need to dig a hole and fill in quick-set cement to hold the posts in place. Installing a vinyl fence is best done when the ground is not frozen to allow easy digging.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Fences
Are you still unsure about vinyl fences? Check out its pros and cons, and you might finally decide to get one.
| Pros of Vinyl Fences | Cons of Vinyl Fences |
| Ease of installation. | Expensive initial costs of installation. |
| Vinyl fences require low maintenance. | Vinyl fences utilize synthetic plastic materials in their construction and design, which are sometimes environmentally toxic. |
| Quality vinyl fences do not rot, crack, or peel. | Adverse weather conditions can damage vinyl fences. |
| High-quality vinyl fences can be modified to look like traditional wood fences. | In damp areas, vinyl fences encourage the growth of algae, mold, and mildew. |
| Vinyl fences come in different colors and styles, and they are easily cleaned. | Vinyl fences require a considerably small amount of time and effort for installation. |
How to Fill Gaps Under Vinyl Fence
Below are several options you could try when filling the gap under your vinyl fence. They’re cost-friendly and could be easily done without the services of a professional.
- Stones
Arrange decorative stones or river rocks that are 1-3 inches in diameter under your vinyl fence to fill the spaces. Ensure that the stones are uniformly distributed and enough to fill the wanting gaps under the fence properly.
- The Mound Technique
If the soil slope under your vinyl fence is uneven, this is the better option for you. Simply mound a heap of soil in the low-level areas, so the ground appears even along the fence line. This technique isn’t recommended for dog owners since a pup can easily dig through the mound, rendering it uneven again.
- Wooden Pickets
To fill the gaps under your picket fence:
- Place horizontal pieces of wood in the gaps under your fence.
- Ensure that the planks are cut appropriately according to the length of the fence and the depth of hollow areas under your fence.
- Feel free to paint your wooden planks to match the color of your vinyl fence.
- Concrete Blocks
You can also use concrete blocks to fill the gaps under your vinyl fence. Ensure that the bricks are lined up properly and aesthetically to serve a decorative and functional purpose.
Conclusion
There’s a bit of relief in realizing that fixing a new fence is not the only existing option when you begin to spot gaps or hollow areas underneath your vinyl fence. For many homeowners, vinyl fencing is a perfect choice because it requires very little maintenance and it’s long-lasting.
Installing a vinyl fence is also made easy as the fence comes in pre-made panels that need to be attached to the posts after installation. Ensure you carefully follow the instructions available, as any small deviation will lead to an unstable fence.
When choosing a way to close the gaps under your vinyl fences, you should consider the design of the entire area so that the design of the vinyl fence harmoniously fits into the overall look. Also, if you’re a pet owner, remember that the mound technique of filling gaps is unsuitable for you.
Lastly, feel free to go with your desired colors when designing your vinyl fence instead of the regular black and white. You can also combine two tones for an attractive look to enhance the appearance of your fence. Good luck!