Your fence contributes to your home’s privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. Vinyl is a popular choice of fencing for many homeowners due to its appealing appearance and minimal maintenance requirements. Before investing in vinyl fencing, it helps to know how long it lasts and what factors affect its lifespan. Here are some facts about the lifespan of your vinyl fence and factors that may affect its durability:

Features of Vinyl Fencing 

Fencing manufacturers make vinyl fences from polyvinyl chloride, a low-maintenance, weather-resistant material. Vinyl fences come in multiple colors and styles, making it easy to find one that matches your home’s aesthetics. Due to their weather resistance, these fences are suitable for any climate. With proper maintenance, vinyl fencing can last several years. 

Vinyl Quality

The purity of the polyvinyl chloride material used to make vinyl fences determines the quality of the final product. Manufacturers make high-quality vinyl fences from virgin polyvinyl chloride. They add impact modifiers to strengthen the vinyl against impact damage, and heat stabilizers enhance the material’s resistance to high temperatures. Manufacturers also add UV stabilizers like titanium dioxide to the PVC to make vinyl fences resistant to fading due to sun exposure. 

Installation

It helps to hire professional installers as they know the best practices for vinyl fence installation. Professionals know to dig holes to plant fence posts a few inches deeper than the standard recommendation. A deep hole allows enough room for a gravel base before filling the hole with concrete to reinforce the fence posts to the ground. Installers start with corner posts first to map out the installation area. They then install the other poles and leave enough space between them to allow room for expansion during hot weather. With proper post alignment and secure anchoring, your vinyl fence has a better chance of withstanding environmental stressors. This means they can remain stable for years. 

Climate and Environmental Conditions

While vinyl fences are resistant to insect and water damage, they are not entirely immune to the effects of extreme weather. Extremely hot or cold temperatures cause your fence to expand and contract, which may cause warping or cracks over time. If you live in one of these areas, ask your fencing contractor for alternate options. They’ll be able to help find a fence that works for your property.

Maintenance

Hose down your fence every few months and during muddy seasons to maintain its appearance. Avoid planting trees too close to your fence to minimize the risk of impact damage from fallen trees and root infiltration. Once or twice every year, call in a professional to inspect your fence and repair any damages it might have. 

Get Professional Fencing Services

Several factors, including vinyl quality, installation, maintenance, climate, and environmental conditions, impact your vinyl fence’s lifespan. Consulting a vinyl fencing contractor on vinyl fence quality and the required maintenance can help prolong your fence’s lifespan. It also helps to hire a professional to identify the best area to install a vinyl fence and apply proper installation techniques.