Buying Vinyl Fencing: What You Need To Know Before Getting Started

Vinyl fencing is a low-maintenance fencing option that will add beauty and security to your yard for years to come. Buying and installing vinyl fencing may seem like a daunting task, but it can be very simple with the proper preparation. The following guide will help you plan your fencing project.

Material Strength

The first and most important consideration to keep in mind when looking at vinyl fencing is the strength of the vinyl you are purchasing. Unlike many of our competitors, Weatherables fencing is commercial grade vinyl that will not chip, crack, or rot. Weatherables fencing is manufactured using premium grade materials that are co-extruded so that they are up to 20%-50% stronger than the competition. Our vinyl posts are .150” thick (compared to many competitors at .125”) and our rails are .90” thick (as compared to .70”). This means that your new Weatherables fence will last for years to come.

Style

Your next step is to select a style of fence. Depending on your personal preference, the look of your house, and your neighborhood, Weatherables offers many different styles of fencing based on your need as well as your taste. First choose the category of fencing you are looking for:

• Privacy Fencing

• Semi-Privacy Fencing

• Picket Fencing

• Pool Fencing

• Horse Fencing

Once you have chosen a category, select from a variety of different styles within each category to select the style that best matches your home and your specific preferences.

Layout & Access

Once you have decided on the style of fencing you are interested in, you will need to measure out your yard to determine the amount of fencing you will need. Before you start, we recommend print this diagram.

Next, measure the area to be fenced and draw a layout of the area where the fence will be installed to determine the number of fence panels as well as the number and type of fence posts that you will need. Refer to the diagram. Our free online tool GeoDraw can help you get a rough estimate for your fence project as well as a projected budget. Simply input your address and draw out where you would like fencing. You can even input where you would like gates and openings. You can also fax a paper drawing to us at 614-771-4806. Just be sure to give us your name and contact information!

Check Local Ordinance

The next step in purchasing a vinyl fence is to determine what your local codes allow for fencing in your area. Some localities restrict the height and placement of fencing, while others have no restrictions. Always check in with your local zoning services before you purchase fencing. Local codes are often online, but you can also go to your city’s department of building and zoning services for information. It is well advised to have the scope of your project determined before you move to this step, so that you can find out if your project aligns with your local building codes.

Property Line

We recommend discussing the addition of a new fence with your neighbor before installation (after all, you may be able to share some of the cost). Most importantly, you will need to determine the exact property line. Your county office should be able to provide an official map of your property clearly showing property lines. Skipping this step could lead to discrepancies in the actual property line resulting in the need to remove and replace your fence which can be quite costly.

Underground Utilities

You have heard the adage “call before you dig”. This is crucial in the layout and placement of your fence. Before you install your fencing, be sure that all utility lines are clearly marked so that you can plan the placement of your post holes. This is a simple call to ‘811’, which coordinates with your local municipality and your utility companies to get the property marked.

You are now all set for your fencing project! You can easily place your order online or give us a call at 888-743-3673.

If you have any questions along the way, our fencing experts are only a phone call away. You can also find all of our contact information and fill out an info request here.