Vinyl Fencing FAQ
Answers to common questions about vinyl fencing.
Product Information
Installation
Care and Cleaning
Product Information
What is Universal's vinyl fence made of?
How strong is vinyl?
Does Universal's vinyl meet building codes?
What kind of warranty is available for vinyl fencing?
Does vinyl become brittle in winter?
How does vinyl hold up to weed trimmers?
Will vinyl become yellow over time?
Will vinyl burn?
Can I paint vinyl?
Is vinyl graffiti-proof?
Does vinyl fencing resist mold and mildew?
How does the price of vinyl compare to that of wood?
Installation
Does the installation of vinyl differ from that of wood fencing?Should I cement my vinyl fence posts?
Care and Cleaning
What kind of care and maintenance does vinyl require?Product Information
What is Universal's vinyl fence made of?
Vinyl is short for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is used for pipe, windows, and other construction products. For our fence components, we add titanium dioxide (TiO2) UV inhibitors and acrylic impact modifiers. This blend of ingredients ensures a durable, maintenance-free fence that lasts a lifetime.
How strong is vinyl?
Our vinyl contains impact modifiers that meet or exceed all ASTM standards for vinyl fencing. Vinyl has five times the tensile strength of wood and four times the flexibility. If your vinyl does become damaged as a result of unusual impact, it can easily be replaced.
Does Universal's vinyl meet building codes?
Our vinyl is designed to meet or exceed most major building code regulations. Codes differ from region to region, so please consult your local code official before installing your fence.
What kind of warranty is available for vinyl fencing?
We offer a limited 20-year warranty for our vinyl fencing products.
Does vinyl become brittle in winter?
Vinyl becomes less flexible when exposed to cold climate, but it's designed to accommodate normal temperature fluctuations. The added impact modifiers prevent vinyl from breaking or cracking unless it's exposed to unusual impact.
How does vinyl hold up to weed trimmers?
Direct contact with lawn and garden equipment can damage vinyl fence posts. Use caution when operating such equipment near your fence.
Will vinyl become yellow over time?
No. Our vinyl contains TiO2, which has been proven to prevent discoloration from exposure to the sun and the environment. All of our vinyl products are warranted against discoloration for 20 years.
Will vinyl burn?
Vinyl will burn, but unlike wood, once the flame has been removed, vinyl is self-extinguishing.
Can I paint vinyl?
Vinyl is a non-porous material; therefore, paint doesn’t adhere to it well. Onyl epoxy-based paint will stick to vinyl over an extended period of time. But paint can damage the vinyl’s surface and thus voids the warranty.
Is vinyl graffiti-proof?
Although not classified as graffiti-proof, the non-porous surface makes it difficult for graffiti to adhere to vinyl. Most paint can be removed with ease using a mild detergent and water. For stubborn stains, you may want to use a pressure washer or paint thinner.
Does vinyl fencing resist mold and mildew?
Vinyl fencing is smooth and non-porous, which makes it difficult for mildew to grow. Mildew will form only under the wettest conditions, but is easily removed with water and a mild detergent.
How does the price of vinyl compare to that of wood?
Over time, the price of vinyl compares favorably with wood. Through the years, the cost to maintain a wood fence adds up. Vinyl is virtually maintenance-free, so you won’t spend time and money painting, staining, or repairing a vinyl fence.
Installation
Does the installation of vinyl differ from that of wood fencing?
Vinyl fencing installs much like a wood panel, but we recommend that you install one fence section as each post hole is dug, prepared, and filled with concrete. See installation instructions.
Should I cement my vinyl fence posts?
We recommend that you cement and place two pieces of 1/2” rebar in opposite corners of all gate posts. If you live in an area with high winds or extreme weather, it is good practice to cement all your posts for added stability.
Care and Cleaning
What kind of care and maintenance does vinyl require?
Vinyl is virtually maintenance-free. There’s no need to scrape, paint, or stain a vinyl fence. As with most exterior products, our fence may become dirty when exposed to the elements. Pressure washing with a mild detergent and water should keep your vinyl fence looking new. For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft-bristled brush.
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