How to Install a Vinyl Fence

Most communities prefer vinyl fencing because it will not rust, rot or decay. Installing it can be rather pricey after purchasing it. Installation of a vinyl fence is an easy do-it-yourself project for those that like to save a little money by completing projects themselves.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hardware that the fence instructions recommend
• Shovel
• Rope and Small Stakes
• Adhesive
• Screwdrivers

1. Check with your community and other organizations to get the proper approval to add a fence.

2. Begin by assembling the gates you plan to use and deciding upon a location for them.

3. Stake out your property. Decide where you want to put the fence and mark the post locations, the fence line and gate. Measure and mark the distance between the posts so that the fence sections will fit between the posts.

4. Dig a hole down to the frost line or about 30 inches deep into the ground. Keep in mind that the average hole size for 5x5 posts is 12 feet.

5. Dig a second hole similar to the first hole. Check that the holes are clean and are aligned so that the fence section will be straight. Measure the distance again before digging.

6. Place the first post into the hole after accounting for and adjusting the height of the post for the fence section. Center the post and fill in the hole around the post with concrete mix. Double check to make sure the post is level and squared off before the concrete dries.

7. Install the bottom rail to the first post. Tape the ends of the bottom rail to prevent concrete seepage from the post's hole. Insert locking rings into the end of each rail. Press the locking ring tabs and insert the rail into the post. Let go of the tabs once the rail and post are in place. Place a support bracer in the middle of the bottom rail.

8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 for the second post. If needed, insert blocks under the bottom rail to ensure the position is correct.

9. Insert the middle rail into the posts. Make sure that the holes are facing downward when you place the middle rail.

10. Place the section's pickets into the routed holes on the bottom rail. Temporarily disconnect the middle rail from the posts. Install the top rail after you place the pickets then insert the middle and top rails back into the posts.

11. Secure the rails by checking for even picket spacing on the end of each rail, then using a screw (sized based on the individual fence instructions) to connect the rails and posts. Level the middle rail as well and secure the same way.

12. Repeat this process for the next sections.

13. Hang the gate according to the instructions provided in the hardware box. The instructions may vary according to the manufacturer. Remember to position the gate between posts and allow a gap for the hinge, latch and gate swing. Make sure the posts are level and that you mount the gate hardware to the posts. Solidify the gates posts using the method recommended by the gate manufacturer.

14. Install caps on each of the posts. Use glue or another adhesive, screws, caps and washers included with your hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• Items will vary based on recommended materials included in the instructions.

[TWhyte]

on 2/9/2008 Because vinyl is not a very strong building material for building gates a steel truss frame should be utilized to provide the strength. The facing material should be attached directly to the steel frame. Therefore when you are done, you have a vinyl gate with the strength of steel. The gate facing material can be selected from the same vinyl panels or rails you are using for your fence. It will last forever without sagging. There are many steel truss frames on the market, some better than others. For an exceptionally good one take a look at GateBuilder truss frame kit by Southern Crossings Gates. It has everything you will need except the posts and facing material. Yes this can easily be done by a do-it-yourselfer. Make sure you install good strong posts sheathed with vinal hollow posts. Good Luck with your fencing and gate project.