How to Fix a Vinyl Fence?
If your vinyl fence is showing signs of wear or damage, it may be time to consider repairing it. Often, repair options are far less expensive than replacing the entire fence.
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Whether the damage is a small crack or hole, or more substantial discoloration from the sun or water, it’s still possible to get the look you want. But, the process can be difficult and may involve more time than you’d like to spend.
First, you need to figure out the extent of the damage. Do you need to fix only a few broken slats or pickets, or do you need to replace the entire fence?
You can usually save money by only replacing broken slats or pickets, as long as they’re in good condition. However, if the slats or pickets are more than a few years old, you might run into trouble finding replacement parts that match your existing fence.
To begin, clean the damaged area thoroughly with soapy water and a soft sponge or rag. Let it dry before you continue with the repair.
Sand the area if necessary to smooth out any rough edges. This will make the repair site appear more uniform, and will help the filler stick better to the vinyl.
Once you’ve sanded the damaged area, you’ll need to add a coating of plastic automotive body filler to both seal the crack or hole and to make it blend in with the rest of the fence. Wait for the plastic to dry, and then sand it again with finer sandpaper.
Then, you’ll need to apply a coat of spray paint in a color that matches the fence. You can find the right paint at your local hardware or home improvement store.
Depending on the amount of damage, the repair process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or more. If you don’t have the necessary skills, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional contractor to complete the job.
Before you can start a vinyl fence repair, it’s important to determine the cause of the damage. Identifying the issue will make it easier to complete the work, as you’ll be able to choose an appropriate repair method.
If the damage is caused by a crack or hole, you can fill it with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) glue. This is a common and affordable option, and it’s made specifically for vinyl fencing.
For larger holes or cracks, use expandable foam to fill them. This is a cheap alternative to PVC glue, and it works well for smaller cracks. Once it’s filled, use a fine tooth saw to cut off the excess expanding foam that has protruded beyond the hole. Then, sand it as closely as possible to the vinyl fence. Finally, sand it slightly concave to give the repair an inward dent.
It’s important to remember that even the best-looking vinyl fence is vulnerable to mildew and stains, especially in humid climates. So, if you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to treat the fence with a mildew-killing treatment or a sealant before proceeding with the repair. This will make the process quicker and more efficient.
