Many homeowners turn to vinyl fencing as the low maintenance alternative to the classic cedar fence. Vinyl fences, while durable, may develop gaps over time due to weathering or installation quirks. Whether you have a cap below your fence, or a hole in the middle, we’ll explore practical techniques and expert tips tailored to your needs.
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Why Do Gaps Occur in a Vinyl Fence
Gaps occur in a vinyl fence due to several factors. Improper installation, like incorrect post spacing or installation on uneven ground, can contribute as well.
Gaps Between Fence Panels
The most common reason for gaps between vinyl fence panels is the normal expansion and contraction of vinyl when the temperature or weather changes. Additionally, the natural settling of the ground will sometimes cause gaps between the panels if it draws the posts out of alignment.
Depending on the size of the gap, these issues can affect not only the appearance of the fence but also its integrity. For small gaps, you can fill them in but larger gaps should be repaired by uninstalling the fence and reinstalling a new one.
Gaps Under the Vinyl Fence
Just like it causes gaps between vinyl fence panels, ground settling can cause caps underneath the fence. Though the most obvious cause of gaps under the fence is installation on uneven ground. Unlike wood fences, vinyl panels cannot be installed following the natural course of the ground very effectively.
Make sure when a vinyl fence is installed that the ground is properly prepared and the posts are set appropriately to prevent this issue. If you live on ground susceptible to erosion, like that with high sand content or on a steep slope, consider using drip irrigation to prevent the erosion in the first place.
How Can I Fill a Gap Under a Vinyl Fence
As an essential aspect of maintaining your fence’s integrity, understanding how to fill these spaces effectively is crucial. Whether due to ground settling, erosion, or installation issues, gaps beneath the panels can compromise the fence’s stability and aesthetics.
Stepping Stones
A beautiful, long lasting way to fill a gap underneath a vinyl fence is to use stepping stones to build a small “wall” feature. You can lay them out nicely and add stepable plants amongst them to create a focal point in your garden rather than an eyesore.
Add Dirt
If you need a temporary solution, you can add dirt underneath the fence. However, if the soil runoff once, it will likely happen again. If you want to add soil to solve this problem, make sure to pack it down as much as possible because loose soil will settle up to 50% and you’ll have another hole in no time after the first rain.
Add Bushes
For people who don’t worry about the integrity of the fence to keep pets in, planting bushes in front of the gap section will greatly improve the aesthetics of a gap in a vinyl fence. Bushes such as boxwood or arborvitae are good options since they won’t stress the fence and are less abrasive than other options.
Add Concrete
If you aren’t worried about how the repair looks, but your big concern is making sure pets stay inside (or outside) the yard, consider adding concrete underneath the fence to fill the gap. The material won’t wash away like added soil will though the ground may still settle underneath it.
Landscaping Fabric
Sometimes, you just want to visually fill the gap beneath a vinyl fence panel. Landscape fabric is perfect for that and it’s simple to attach to the bottom of the fence. You can easily use an adhesive or staples to attach it and close the gap visually. It won’t successfully keep pets in and it won’t look very good usually.
FRP with Plywood Backing
Fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) is a great way to fill a gap beneath a vinyl fence because it is structurally sound, fairly simple to install, and looks good when done right. Get a panel of FRP that matches as close as possible to the color of your fence and use an adhesive to attach it to outdoor plywood. Then, cut pieces to size with a fine-tooth blade and attach to the posts on either side of the gap.
How Can I Fill a Gap Between Fence Panels
These spaces, often caused by factors like weather and installation inconsistencies, can compromise your fence’s integrity and visual appeal. Fortunately, they are simple to fix so you can maintain the privacy and security of your outdoor space.
Astragal
The simplest way to describe an astragal is a small piece of material with a cross-section that looks like a “T” and is installed with the tail of the “T” pushed between panels. An astragal is a perfect solution for small gaps that run between panels. The two flaps meet up with the panels on either side and hide the gap completely. You can easily attach an astragal with adhesive.
Weatherstripping
If you can’t find an astragal that matches and you just want to visually fill the gap, you can use weatherstripping that is typically put around an exterior door. They make options in rubber and vinyl that fit gaps up to ¾” easily. Many are self-adhesive but you can also use a construction adhesive to attach them.
Filler Strip
A filler strip is going to work very similarly to an astragal or weatherstripping except it is only going to fit on the surface of the panels and not between them. Again, you can attach it with construction adhesive to the front surface of the panel on either side of the gap. It will be visible so you want to make sure it matches your fence color as well as possible. The good news is that filler strips can be as wide as necessary so it’s a good option for larger gaps.
Screwing Panels Together
If your panels only have a small gap (less than ¼”) or a gap that doesn’t extend from the top to the bottom, you may be able to get away with screwing them together. Use a machine screw since they typically have finer threads that go up to the head. And make sure that the head is flat on the back to prevent cracking the panels.
Shims
Shims are an excellent way to fill a gap in a vinyl fence if aesthetics are not a concern. They make shims out of composite materials now that won’t rot outside. Just make sure that you don’t push the shim too far in and cause an even larger gap in your fence. Use a hammer to push it in only as far as necessary to keep it from falling out.
FRP with Plywood Backing
Just like using FRP to block a gap underneath a vinyl fence, you can use FRP with a plywood backing to cover a gap between vinyl fence panels. This would work just the same as a filler strip but the panels can be even larger.
How Can I Fill a Hole in Fence Panels
Even the most well-cared for vinyl fence can develop holes in the panels either through weathering or via accidental damage. If you have a hole in your vinyl fence, you should fill it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Vinyl Fence Putty
There are PVC putties and patching compounds that work just like spackle when filling small holes in your drywall. After cleaning the hole, making sure that the edges are all in good shape, apply a small amount of putty with your finger or a putty knife, and smooth it over. You may need to sand it smooth once it’s dry and cured.
Steel Wool
To keep small animals like mice from coming through a hole in a vinyl fence, you can push steel mesh into the hole. Especially for larger holes, you should consider putting steel mesh in as a backing before applying something else on top to visually cover the hole.
FRP material
Small pieces of FRP can be used to block a hole in a vinyl fence panel if you apply them with an adhesive to the front of the panel. They will be more obvious than something like a vinyl fence putty but if you get them to match your fence, they can do a nice job.
Tips for Keeping Your Vinyl Fence in Good Condition
Keeping your vinyl fence in good condition is essential for ensuring its durability. Regular maintenance such as cleaning and Inspecting the fence periodically for any signs of damage allows for quick repairs.
Additionally, trimming vegetation and avoiding direct contact with abrasive materials can help preserve the fence’s surface. If you live in a particularly sunny area, applying a protective UV-resistant coating can prolong its lifespan.
Regular Washing
Vinyl fencing should be washed at least once a year, twice a year if you live in a dusty area, with a mild detergent. A perfect option is to mix a little dish soap in a bucket of warm water and wash the fence with a soft sponge. You can use a pressure washing as well but use it only on a low pressure with a wide angle. Never use anything abrasive on your vinyl fence since it could damage the surface.
Reduce Mold and Algae Build up
A common issue for many vinyl fence owners is the build up of algae and mold on the surface. A vinyl fence should be cleaned regularly to keep it in good shape. You can rinse your fence with vinegar, or if absolutely necessary, bleach in order to clean it off. Mix 1 part vinegar or bleach into 10 parts water to make sure the mixture isn’t too strong. Be very careful not to use these too often as they can damage the fence if they are overapplied.
Remove Overhanging Plants
Unlike wooden fences, vinyl fences are especially prone to damage from vegetation hanging on them or brushing against them. Overhanging plants can fall and damage the fence in a storm. Plants hanging off the fence will stress the posts and eventually weaken the structure. And abrasive plants near the fence will scratch the surface, causing the fence to prematurely wear out.
Inspect regularly
You should inspect your fence regularly to make sure that any damage is prevented or fixed immediately. Look to do this at least once a year. But if you live in an area where your fence is more prone to damage, you may want to inspect more often.
When to Hire a Professional to Help with Your Vinyl Fence Repair
Most vinyl fence repairs can be done on your own. But if your vinyl fence has sustained extensive damage, such as large cracks, severe warping, or significant structural issues, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance.
Furthermore, if you lack the expertise or confidence to handle repairs, hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of further damage or costly mistakes.
Additionally, if your vinyl fence is still under warranty, hiring a professional for repairs may be necessary to ensure compliance with warranty terms and conditions. Attempting DIY repairs or hiring an inexperienced contractor could void the warranty and leave you responsible for all repair costs.
Conclusion
Addressing gaps in your vinyl fencing is a necessary but manageable task that keeps your outdoor space both functional and beautiful. Remember to regularly inspect your fence for any signs of new gaps or damage and address them quickly to prevent further issues.
Maintaining your vinyl fence doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little time and effort, you can keep your fence looking great and performing its intended function for years to come. So roll up your sleeves, grab your tools, and get ready to transform those gaps into a seamless and secure fence line that enhances the beauty and value of your property!