How to Install PVC Fence Panels

Installing PVC fence panels can be a fun project to add to your yard for a fresh clean look. PVC fences last for years and do not need such much maintenance as wood fences. If you’re wondering how to install PVC fence panels correctly, look no further! Here is a step-by-step guide to help you learn the entire process.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before we start with the installation, there are few tools and materials that are necessarily needed. Here’s what you’ll need to complete your PVC fence panel installation:

• PVC fence panels

• PVC fence posts

• Stakes and some ropes (to mark the fence line)

• Tape measure

• Drill

• Level

• Concrete

• Gravel (for post holes)

• Vinyl gate kit (optional, if you are putting up a gate)

• Pouring holes for the pillars and footing are best done with a post hole digger or power auger.

10 Ways to Install PVC Fence Panels

Step 1: Mark the Fence Line

First, measure the area in which you intend to put your fence. Mark the fence line with stakes and ropes if you prefer, or just use spray paint. First, make sure you mark where the end posts will go, and then where the line posts will be. But these are the posts that hold your vinyl fence panels. To make sure your panels fit perfectly later, it’s important to measure accurately.

Step 2: Dig the Post Holes

After marking out your fence line, it’s time to dig the holes for your fence posts. To do this, you can use a post hole digger, but a power auger will make this job much easier. Your posts need to be set in holes that go one third of the height of your posts to give the fence stability. For instance, if your fence is six feet high, you’ll want to dig your holes about two feet down.

Put some gravel at the bottom of each hole bed to make sure your posts will be stable. It keeps drainage on the posts and it helps to prevent the posts from really settling a lot in time.

Step 3: Set the Posts in Concrete

Set the posts in place after digging the post holes. Use a level to see if the posts are straight before filling the holes with concrete. Also, throw in an extra six inches of gravel at the bottom for better drainage. After the posts are level, fill the holes with concrete and let it cure. Before you move on from this step to the next one, it’s imperative that the posts are plumb. Double check leveling as any uneven ground will affect the final outcome.

Step 4: Install the Bottom Rail

After you attach the vinyl panels to the posts you will install the bottom rail. This is usually a simple step because the rails should pop right into place. If they won’t, you may have to use screws and a drill to hold them securely to the posts. The support the rail gives and keeps your panels in place as you continue.

Step 5: Install the PVC Fence Panels

And now, it’s time for the fun part – installing the PVC fence panels. Do one panel at a time. Lay it between two posts, aligning it level. Fit the panel to adjust it so that it’s aligned perfectly. If the posts are too high then hammer them down or block them up with a block and hammer. After the first panel is secured, you continue hooking up more panels, and with each one you check that it is level with the other.

Step 6: Install the Top Rail

Once you have all your panels installed, you’re ready to add the top rail. The top rail should snap into place like the bottom rail, but may require screws to be secured, if it does not. The added strength of this final rail provides the fence extra support and keeps everything in one piece.

Step 7: Install the Gate

If you are installing a gate, look at the manufacturer's instructions to add the gate on your fence. The installation of the panels will resemble this step, only you will be working with a gate post and pre assembled gate. Be careful to also measure the gap for the gate that should fit perfectly between the posts. Level the gate the same way and it will help it remain straight and aligned.

Step 8: Final Touches and Maintenance

After the fence is in place, stop to look the whole thing over. Make sure that the panels are level, the posts are tight. If there are cracks or uneven surfaces, fill them up before concrete reaches a hard stage.

PVC fence panels are low maintenance. Regular washing of your fence with a garden hose will keep your fence looking its best. If you see dirt or grime accumulation, you are able to utilize a power washer.

So clean stains with a mixture of bleach or vinegar if mold or algae is starting to form.

Remember to watch for damage and find a way to treat it sooner. If you want to replace a damaged section, check out the guide How to Replace a PVC Fence Panel.

Why Choose PVC Fencing?

PVC fence panels have many reasons why they make the ideal choice for your property. In addition to offering great privacy and security, they last far longer than a wooden fence.

As a leader in the PVC wall panels, PVC ceiling panels, and PVC soffit panels, East Building provides high quality materials that are durable and have a sleek look that clients can use in their homes.

Unlike wooden fences, PVC fencing requires very little maintenance, and will not warp, rot, nor fade. As such, it’s a more reliable choice in areas which experience frequent changes of weather. Additionally, if you have uneven ground, PVC fence panels can be worked into the ground space.

Conclusion

Installing PVC fence panels can be a big task, but with the right tools, you'll be able to get some great results. Follow the above steps and you will get a strong, beautiful fence that will last for years. No matter if you’re laying down vinyl panels or a gate, this easy guide will make the process much easier. Enjoy your new fence and the privacy and security it brings to your home.