So you found the perfect vinyl fence for your home-- but after years of love, wear and tear has taken its toll. Its curb appeal is no longer what it used to be. Well, now what? Can you ever get that coveted vinyl fence back to its pristine state?
The answer is yes.
“What do you mean, even if there’s a massive gap separating the bottom of my fence between the ground?”
That’s right! Gaps are common below vinyl fences and are easily reparable if you have the right tools and fencing materials on hand.
What’s Unique about Vinyl Fences?
Vinyl is a plastic-based material made from polyvinyl chloride. Vinyl fences are very popular among homeowners for many reasons. First of all, they aren’t subject to rotting and splintering like wooden fences and last for decades. Compared to wooden fences, your average vinyl fence has quite a long life span (a well-maintaned vinyl fence can last up to 30 years!) Because vinyl doesn’t rot or splinter, it stays looking fresh and sturdy for years. High-quality vinyl can even be made to resemble natural wood. Second of all, vinyl is very easy to clean -- all it takes is a bit of soapy water to keep it looking beautiful.
Although upkeep is generally minimal compared with other fencing materials, occasional maintenance may be desired on vinyl fences. Small cracks or holes sometimes form and can be exacerbated by extreme temperatures, such as freezing or frost, or by accidents. These weather events can compromise the structure of your vinyl fence. One issue with vinyl fences is that they are not constructed all the way into the ground. And, therefore, many vinyl fences have gaps between the bottom of the fencing and the ground.
Most Common Causes of Gaps
Unlike cracks and holes, gaps beneath vinyl fences usually have nothing to do with the quality of the structure itself. Rather, they are caused by the land below, which could be sloped downward, creating a large hollow space between the ground and the bottom fo the fence, or the land below could be eroding.
If the land below is sloped (on a hilly terrain area, for example) you may find gaps below your vinyl fence. Vinyl is not a flexible material, and the railings only run straight without some tinkering. So if the land the fence is installed on is not perfectly flat, you may have gaps below the fence.
The other main cause of gaps is land erosion. Even if the fence is built on flat ground, a gap could form under the fence if the land eroded due to hard rains, strong winds, or flowing water.
How to Fix Gaps in Vinyl Fence
Let us explain how to fix gaps in your vinyl fence. First of all, it’s not the easiest task because vinyl is not a flexible material. However there are a few ways to resolve the problem.
For vinyl fences built on steep ground, one option is to reinstall the fencing materials entirely, taking into account the slope of the land. Since vinyl does not bend or flex, you will have to fit it into brackets, then cut at an angle at the ends so that the rails are still "plumb" with the post. If they aren't plumb, this creates excess stress on the railing, which may eventually warp the posts.
In order to do this, you should begin by digging the ground to create a slope that matches the shape of the fence. Once the ground is dug out, set up posts and begin installation. Attach rails to the posts, taking into consideration the angle at which the posts stand. You may need to cut pickets to the proper angle. From there, work your way up the sections, following the angle of the incline.
This YouTube video is a good tutorial on how this process works.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
Another option is to affix a barrier, such as a rock or even small stones, depending on the size of the gap, into the hole. You can lay down the stones before installing the paneling, or use it to fill in gaps as they arise mid-installation. This is a cost-effective method of filling gaps in your fence, and the barrier can be easily re-adjusted or removed if needed.
Another way to fix the gap is by inserting a raised garden bed in front of the hole. You can also fill the area with a mound of dirt. This is less effective if you intend to keep animals outside of the fence; however, it will work if your aim is simply to cover the gap for aesthetic purposes.
Other ideas for covering the gap in your fence include:
- Placing a boulder to block in front of the fence.
- Inserting a small statue or other landscape accouterment.
- Lattice or decorative screens to cut and fill into the area. These are very easy to replace. Choose from a variety of decorative screen panels for a touch of style. Fencing Direct’s vinyl pergola screens are the perfect way to beautify your fence.
Why Fencing Direct
Fencing Direct is your go-to, one-stop shop for the best fencing materials! Our quality fencing products from top manufacturers are made with care to beautify your home. We offer a plentiful array of vinyl fencing products for every style and project.
Our decorative screens can help you create a private oasis for your deck, front yard, back yard, or pool area, giving you that coveted privacy while also being visually appealing. Vinyl panels can also be used with the railing on your porch or deck. You can also use them as decorative infill for under a deck or porch, hanging porch screens, wall art, indoor room divider, and so much more!
Decorative vinyl, unlike wood, is long-lasting. Unlike wood, you won’t have to deal with rotting, scratching, warping or splintering. And you don’t have to constantly repaint it, color is formed into our vinyl panels when they’re made.
Our high-quality vinyl fencing materials can be used to revamp your yard and home, add shade, privacy, and style! Contact our knowledgeable sales staff to learn how to purchase high-quality fencing materials for your home today.
