How to Install a PVC Fence
If you've decided to build a fence, you should be aware that there are some important things to remember. First, you must decide the location you want the fence to be placed. The next step is to prepare the ground. Then, you'll have to install the posts. You may also need to adjust the fence's height based on the size of your property.
Preparing the ground
Getting the ground ready for the fence is a crucial step in the process. This is because fence posts have to be placed in a secure way. If they aren't secured, the fence could easily blow over in the wind.
Before you begin digging, make sure to check with your local utility company to ensure there aren't any underground utilities that could hinder the installation. In many areas, you can call 811 and request that the utility company mark your yard for underground lines.
A gravel base should be laid for your fence posts. This will allow the water to drain away from the posts. It also provides a solid base for the blocks that will be erected.
Once you have the base, it is time to set up the vinyl fence. The material should be at minimum four feet long and one-inch thick. If you have access to an auger, you should use it to dig holes for fence posts.
Before you begin digging, it is important to remove any plants and trees that could hinder the digging. In some cases it is much easier to get rid of the ground rather than digging it. Avoid digging in rocky or sandy soil if you need to.
Then, mark the top and lowest points of your yard. A string level is the most effective method for this. Attach the string level to stakes that are at least 1 foot above the ground. The string level serves as a reference for the fence posts.
If your land is a very dry climate, you'll probably require pre-drilling pilot holes. This will make the process run much more quickly.
You will also have to mark your holes. This can be done using spray paint or a marker. You can also employ a mason's lines to make sure that the posts are straight.
You can also fill the gap with decorative stones. These stones are perfect for smaller gaps. However in the event that you have a bigger gap, you'll need a different approach. It is also possible to put dirt in the gap. This can be a cheap and efficient solution.
The postings are placed in the appropriate places.
It is often difficult to position the posts. The first step is to find the ideal spot. This can be accomplished with an instrument such as a spirit level, line mark made to accommodate the width of the post or a measuring wheel.
Then, install the posts that are at the corner and the end. You should also install the top and middle rails. Some cutting may be necessary. Rails can be used to create an air spacer between posts.
Once you have located the center of each hole using stakes or a tape measure, mark the middle of the posts with a tape measure. You can also draw string lines to help determine the proper depth. After the string line has been drawn, you can tie the ends of the posts to the string. This will ensure the fence will be straight.
After the posts are set in place and firmly seated, fill their bottoms with six inches gravel. This will hold the posts in place and also provide drainage.
When setting the fence posts in concrete, be sure you use a fast setting concrete. This type of concrete is set in between three and four minutes. If you are installing privacy fencing, make certain not to tighten too much the panels. The panels should be positioned 22 inches above ground. The panels is to be secured using #10 x 1" self-tapping stainless steel screws.
If you are installing a vinyl fence you can join the posts to the bottom collars with two screws. If you are building a privacy fence it is recommended to leave one screw at the top rail. Duct tape can be used to cover the bottom horizontal rails prior to inserting them into the posts. This will stop the concrete from getting into the horizontal rails that are below it.
Once you are happy with the design, you can remove the duct tape, and insert the top rail into the posts. Then, you can attach the pickets to the rails.
You can also set the bottom rails at the corners. U-channels made of aluminum can be used to join the rails to your posts.
Assembling the panels
Making sure that the fence posts are lined up correctly is essential to the successful installation of a vinyl fence. It is possible to employ different methods depending on the style of your fence. These steps will help you determine whether you're planning to construct a square or oval fence.
Before you begin, make sure to read your deed and local Zoning laws. Inform neighbors of your plans. If you plan to install fence made of vinyl you may have to apply for an approval for building.
After all your posts are in place, it is time to put in your rail brackets. These screws are fixed to the inside of the post. This allows you to move the posts once they are placed.
Before you attach your rail brackets, make sure you install the rail that is on the bottom. The majority of pre-assembled vinyl panels come with two rails. You may have to cut the rails to fit your terrain.
Once the bottom rail is in place, you can put in your middle rail. You can also install the top rail in the same manner. This step can be done using an aluminum u-channel. It is inserted into your posts using the help of #8 1 inch screws.
You can then put in your pickets one at a. Once your pickets have been installed, attach your C channel brackets. You can also put stakes at the corners to help hold them in place. To connect stakes with cotton string.
You can also make use of a spray marker to mark your line. This will ensure that the fence is set when it is click here erected.
Then, you'll have to install privacy panels. These panels should be placed on the back of your fence. To help them stay in place, you can also add pea gravel. If you have a gentle slope, you can address it by installing your fence panels at one side so that they "step down" down the slope. However, if the slope is steep, you will need to construct your fence so that it "steps down" from the top to the bottom.
Problems with height changes
It could be difficult to arrange the posts if you want to put up a PVC fence. There are two methods to accomplish this. The first is to set the posts on the ground. The other option is to line them up. The first method is simpler to apply and ensures there is concrete under and around the post. In the second method, you have to remove the posts and then fill in with dirt.
When you remove the posts, ensure to have a good backfill and make holes that are deep enough to support three-quarters the length of the post. You'll need to dig down approximately six inches in order to place the posts into the bottom of the gravel. You can also employ a hole driller to make holes. In the final step, hook up the tension bar to the mesh. Then, staple the top of the mesh to the fence.
If you have problems with lining up the posts and you are having trouble, you can remove the rails from posts that are too high. Although this can be difficult however, it is achievable to accomplish the task with two people. You can make the bolt threads tighter using the help of a hammer or chisel. This will prevent them from escaping the fence when you take it off.