How to Install a PVC Fence
There are some important things to consider when you're contemplating installing a fence. First, determine where you want the fence to be installed. Next, you need to prepare the ground. Then, you must place the posts. You may also have to adjust the height based on the size and shape of your house.
Preparing the ground
It is crucial to prepare the ground for the fence. This is because fence posts have to be buried in a secure manner. The fence will easily be blown away if not secured.
Before digging, check with your local utility provider to confirm that there aren't any underground utilities that could block the construction. You can dial 811 to get your yard marked for underground lines.
A gravel base should be prepared for the fence posts. This will allow water to drain from the posts. It also provides a solid foundation on which blocks will be erected.
Once you have the base you can start putting in the vinyl fence. The fence must be at least four feet long and one-inch thick. If you have access to an auger, you should make use of it to create holes for fence posts.
Before you dig, remove any shrubs or plants which could hinder your digging. In some instances, it is easier to get rid of the ground rather than digging it. If you do need to dig, it is best to avoid digging in rocky or sandy soil.
Next, you will need to mark the high and low points of your yard. This can be accomplished by using the string level. Attach the string level to stakes around one foot above the ground. The string level serves as a guideline for the fence posts.
You'll need to make pilot holes in case your land is very dry. This will help the process go much faster.
Finally, you will need to mark the holes. Spray paint or markers to mark your holes. You can also use a mason's line to make sure that the posts are straight.
You can also fill in the gap with decorative stones. They are great for small gaps. You'll have to find another method of filling the gap larger. It is also possible to put dirt in the gap. This is an affordable and cost-effective solution.
The postings are placed in the appropriate places.
The installation of the posts can be a challenging task. The first step is to locate the correct location. This can be accomplished with a spirit level, a line mark made to accommodate the width of the post or a measuring tool.
Then, you should set the end and corner posts in their place. It is also recommended to install the middle and top rails. Some cutting may be necessary. You can also use rails as an extra spacer between posts.
Once you have located the center of each hole using stakes or a tape measure and stakes, mark the middle of the posts using a tape measure. You can also use string lines to determine the proper depth. Once you have drawn the string line and tied the ends to the string. This will ensure that the fence will be straight.
After the posts are securely seated after which, fill their bottoms six inches gravel. This will hold the posts in place and will provide drainage.
Use a concrete that is quick-setting when putting fence posts in concrete. This type of concrete sets within three to four minutes. It is not recommended to tighten the panels when installing privacy fencing. The panels should be positioned 22 inches above ground. The panel should be secured with #10 x 1" self-tapping stainless steel screws.
If you are installing a vinyl fence you can join the posts to the collars at the bottom with two screws. If you are installing privacy fences you must leave one screw at the top rail. Duct tape can be used to cover the bottom rails prior to inserting them into the posts. This will stop concrete from getting into the horizontal rails below.
When you are happy with the design, you can take off the duct tape. Then, insert the top rail into each of the posts. You can then connect the pickets to the rails.
You can also connect the rails at the bottom to the corners. U-channels made of aluminum is a great way to attach the rails to the post.
Assembling the panels
It is vital to align the fence posts correctly in order to install a vinyl fence. You may need to use different techniques depending on the style of your fence. Whether you are installing an square or oval fence a few easy steps can start you off.
Before you begin, ensure that you have a look at your deed as well as local zoning laws. Also, notify neighbors of your plans. If you are installing fence made of vinyl you may have to apply for a building permit.
Once your posts are set, it is time to attach your rail brackets. These are screws that are attached to the inside of the post. This allows for easier manipulation of the posts once they are put in.
Before you attach your rail brackets, make sure you attach the rail that is on the bottom. Vinyl panels that are pre-assembled usually include two rails. You may need to alter the rails to match your terrain.
Once the bottom rail is in place, you can then install the middle rail. You can also install the top rail in the same manner. This is done using an aluminum u-channel. It can be inserted into your posts using #8 x 1'' screws.
You can then install your pickets one by one. Once they are all in place then you can begin attaching your C channel brackets. You can also put stakes on the corners to hold them in place. To connect stakes using cotton string.
Spray paint markers can be used to mark your fence. This will ensure that the fence is level once you put it in place.
Finally, you should install your privacy panels. These should be installed on the back side of your fence. To keep them in place, you could also add pea gravel. If you have a mild slope, you can deal with it by putting your fence panels at one end , so they "step down" along the slope. However, if the slope is a steep one it is necessary to construct your fence so that it "steps down" from the top to the bottom.
Problems with height changes
It could be difficult to coordinate the posts if you intend to construct a PVC fence. There are two methods to accomplish this. One is to place the posts on the ground and the other is to lay them out. The first option is more straightforward and ensures that concrete is laid under and around each post. In the second method, you have to remove the posts and then fill in with dirt.
When you are digging out the posts, make sure that you have a sufficient backfill and get more info make the holes enough to hold three-quarters of the length of the post. In order to insert the posts into the gravel base it is necessary to dig about six inches. You may also employ a hole digger in order to drill the holes. In the last step, hook up the tension bar into the mesh. Then staple the upper end of the steel mesh into the fence.
If you're having difficulty aligning the posts, you may have to remove any rails that are too high. It can be a complicated process however you should be able do it with two people working with you. You can tighten the bolt threads using the help of a hammer or chisel. This will prevent them from coming out when you pull out the top of the fence.