Vinyl fences are well-known for being low maintenance, but they’re not completely protected against damage. They may not attract pests or mold like wood can, but they are still at risk of damage from storms, strong winds, impacts, and sun exposure.
Cheaper vinyl fences are more likely to show signs of damage, like cracking or yellowing, early. This is one reason why professional installation with high-quality materials is important for your return on investment. We’ll cover the biggest risks to vinyl fences along with helpful steps to prevent damage.
Yellowing From Sun Damage
White vinyl fences are beautiful on any property, but they can quickly become an eyesore if they start to discolor. Yellowing occurs when the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) your vinyl fence is made of degrades from the UV rays. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can alter the chemical makeup of cheap vinyl fences without photoinhibitors. The easiest way to prevent sun damage is to buy high-quality vinyl fencing with built-in UV protection.
Cracking From Temperature Changes
In cold cimates, vinyl can become brittle and more susceptible to damage from even minor impacts. Your child’s soccer ball hitting the fence or even strong winds can cause the vinyl panels to fracture. While there’s no way to completely prevent this, top-quality materials are far less likely to crack, and they come with manufacturer warranties against damage to give you peace of mind.
Always be mindful of any impact risks to your fence, whether it’s your children’s toys, your dog’s beloved tennis ball or tree branches hanging over the top rail.
Mold or Mildew Stains
Fortunately, vinyl fencing is not likely to rot, even with mold exposure. However, it can still develop stains, which you should always clean off with power washing. In fact, annual power washes are a great way to keep your vinyl fence in pristine condition for years to come. Keep an eye out for black or green spots on your fence, and schedule cleaning during the spring or fall to freshen up your fence.
Leaning Fence Posts
One of the downsides to vinyl fences is that they’re hollow. This can make them weaker than a typical wood 4×4 post. However, there are ways to work around this.
You can ask your installer to reinforce the vinyl posts with a steel beam. But what really matters is choosing an expert fence contractor with a proven track record of successful, long-lasting installations. Concrete installation with regular vinyl posts can last for years if you choose a professional who offers a workmanship warranty.
Enjoy Your Vinyl Fence for Longer
Vinyl fencing from a good fence company lives up to its name as the “set it and forget it” fence material. For homeowners looking to improve their yard’s safety and style, vinyl fences are a great investment. By carefully researching local fence companies, you can find a contractor with a good reputation, warranty coverage and quality materials to build you a vinyl fence that stands the test of time. If you live in Johnson City, TN or a surrounding area and need vinyl fence services, make your first call to Bear Roots Fence Company.
