How to Install a PVC Fence
If you've made the decision to construct a fence it is important to know that there are certain things to keep in mind. First, you must decide the location where you would like the fence to be erected. The next step is to prepare the soil. Then, you'll need to install the posts. You may also have to adjust the height based on the dimensions and shape of your property.
Preparing the ground
The preparation of the ground for the fence is an essential step in the process. This is important because fence posts need to be securely installed. If they're not in a secure location, the fence will blow over in the wind.
Before digging, check with your local utility provider to confirm that there aren't any underground utilities that could hinder the installation. You can call 811 to have your yard marked for underground lines.
It is also recommended to prepare a gravel base for your fence post. This will allow the water to drain away from the posts. It provides a solid foundation on which to put the blocks.
Once you have the base, it is time to put in the vinyl fence. The fence should be a minimum of four feet long and 1 inch thick. If you have access to an auger, you can use it to dig the holes for the fence posts.
Before digging, you must remove any plants or shrubs that could hinder the digging. In certain situations it is easier to get rid of the ground than it is to dig it. Avoid digging in rocky or sandy soil if you have to.
Next, you will need to mark the high and low points of your yard. A string level is the best way to do this. Attach the string level to stakes about one foot above ground. The string level serves as a guideline for fence posts.
You will need to drill pilot holes if your terrain is extremely dry. This will help the process run much more quickly.
Then, you'll need to mark your holes. Spray paint or markers to mark your holes. To ensure straight posts, you could also use a mason's line.
You can also fill the gap with decorative stones. These stones are suitable for smaller gaps. You will need to find a different way to fill the gap larger. You can also try placing dirt in the gap. This is a cost-effective and effective solution.
Placing the posts
The installation of the posts can be a daunting task. The first step is to locate the correct place. You can use a spiral level, a mark you made to measure the size of the posts, or a measuring tool.
Then, put in the posts that are at the corner and the end. Also, install the top and middle rails. You may need to cut a few holes. Rails can be used to create an alternative to posts as a spacer.
After locating the middle of each hole Use a tape measure or stakes to mark the center of the post. You can also use string lines to determine the right depth. Once you've drawn your string line, tie the ends to the string. This will ensure the fence will be straight.
After the posts are set after which you can fill the bottoms with six inches of gravel. This will help to keep the posts in place and also provide drainage for the base.
Use a quick setting concrete when putting fence posts in concrete. This kind of concrete sets in between three and four minutes. It is not recommended to tighten the panels while installing privacy fencing. The panels should be placed 22 inches above the ground. The panel should be secured with #10 x 1" self tapping stainless steel screws.
You can connect the posts to your fence using two screws. If you are building privacy fences you must leave one screw on the top rail. Duct tape can be used to cover the bottom horizontal rails before inserting them into the posts. This will prevent the concrete from seeping into the horizontal rails at the bottom.
When you are satisfied with the arrangement, remove the duct tape and insert the top rail into the posts. The pickets can be attached to the rails.
You can also set the bottom rails at the corners. You can use aluminum U-channel to attach the rails to the post.
Assembling the panels
It is vital to align the fence posts properly to set up a vinyl fence. There may be different techniques depending on the design of your fence. Whether you are installing an square or oval fence there are a few steps to start you off.
Before you begin, be sure to read your deed as well as local Zoning laws. Also, notify neighbors of your plan. If you are installing an electric fence you may need to apply for a building permit.
Once you have all your posts in place now is the time to install your rail brackets. These are screws that are anchored to the outside of the post. This makes it easier to maneuver the posts once they are inserted.
Before you set up your rail brackets, install the bottom rail. Vinyl panels pre-assembled have two rails. It is possible that you will need to alter the rails to suit your terrain.
Once the bottom rail is in place, you can install your middle rail. The top rail can be set up in the same way. This step can be done by using an aluminum uchannel. It can be put into your posts with #8 x 1'’ screws.
You can then install your pickets, one at a time. Once your pickets are installed put them on your C channel brackets. To secure them, you can place stakes at their corners. You can use cotton string to join the stakes.
You can also make use of a spray paint marker to mark your fence. This will ensure that your fence is level as you put it in place.
Then, you'll require privacy panels. They should be placed on the backside your fence. You can also add pea gravel to your holes to help keep them in place. If you have a mild slope, you can deal with it by putting in your fence panels at one end , so they "step down" towards the slope. However, if the slope is steep, you will need to build your fence in a way that it "steps down" from the top to the bottom.
Problems with height changes
It might be difficult to arrange the posts when you want to construct a PVC fence. There are two methods to accomplish this. The first is to put the posts on the ground. The other option is to line them up. The first option is here more straightforward and ensures that concrete is laid under and around each post. The second method requires digging out the posts and then backfill them with dirt.
Make sure you have enough backfill to hold the posts while digging them out. To insert the posts into the base of the gravel you'll need to dig about 6 inches. To drill holes, employ a hole driller. The tension bar is attached to the mesh in the final step. Attach the steel mesh on the top of the fence.
If you have difficulty aligning the posts, you may have to remove any rails from the posts that are too high. Although this can be difficult, it is possible to accomplish it with two people. You can make the bolt threads tighter using either a hammer or an axe. This will prevent them from coming out when you pull the top of the fence.