Vinyl fencing remains a preferred option for most homeowners in Ottawa. It has an appealing appearance and has not required much maintenance over the years. Nevertheless, there are some things that you should do if you want your Vinyl Fence to look as good as new and to serve you for a long time. In this article, we have provided all the necessary information regarding the right way to maintain vinyl fencing Ottawa.
Inspect Your Vinyl Fencing Ottawa Regularly
You should perform a routine check on your vinyl fence at least once in the early spring and once in the autumn. This may include checking for signs of drooping or warping on pickets, loose or absent post caps, cracking, or any other form of damage. That is why it is easier to fix problems when they are noticed than when they are complex. They should also be inspected after major storms hit the area, if not on a regular basis.
Clean the Fence
Vinyl fencing should be washed at least once a year to remove dust, dirt, and other particles that may be deposited on the surface of the fence. The best thing to use is a soft bristle brush and warm water that has some soap in it. Do not use abrasive cleaners or strong chemicals that may scratch the surface of the vinyl. Clean the bottom rails more often than other areas since dust and dirt are likely to settle on these parts. Cleaning should always be followed by thorough rinsing.
Remove Dead Branches from Nearby Trees and Shrubs
Check to ensure that trees, shrubs, or vines adjacent to your fence are not growing on the fence surface. Additionally, prune any branches that are in contact with the wall. Dust from plants scraping against the fence rubs the vinyl surface and causes it to wear out. Therefore, maintain a space of a few inches between any plantings and the wall. For professional fence care, consider contacting Commence Fence.
Realign Leaning Posts
Another problem with vinyl fence posts is that sometimes they lean or tilt in one direction or another. This process takes place gradually over time as a result of frost heave and soil movement. Check and realign learning posts when you begin to observe the problem. If needed, disengage one or both rails for some time. Pour concrete mix into backfill holes to fix posts.
Repair Damaged Pickets
After a few years, some of the pickets will always be split, cracked, or broken. However, replacing a single picket in the vinyl fence is not difficult. Use spline connections or rail snaps to remove and replace the new pickets in the existing line. Ensure that you match the height, width, shape, and color of your Vinyl Fencing Ottawa.
Use Substitute for Defective or Nonexistent Post Caps
Absence or damage to post caps makes hollow interior posts visible and displeasing. Cut the width and length of your vinyl posts and buy post caps from your fencing dealer or home improvement stores. Put the new caps on the post using PVC cement. You can also add some cement inside the caps to increase adhesion firmness and enhance the materials’ strength. Finally, ensure that the caps fit snugly to prevent future issues.
Fix small holes and cracks.
Vinyl eventually develops small holes and cracks due to weathering, accidents, or animals clawing into the material. Dealing with these as fast as possible prevents the problem from escalating. To repair vinyl fences, use a specific epoxy compound designed for them. Make sure to follow manufacturer label guidelines for the cleanest finish and bond. You may need to hire a professional to replace more extensively damaged parts.
Say When To Call A Pro
Not all vinyl fences require simple repair work that any homeowner can handle on their own. If the wall is leaning or sagging, has broken concrete post footings, multiple broken rails, or has considerable section damage, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. When selecting a company to install your fence, hire the right one to ensure they offer quality services and provide warranties for both their work and the materials used.
Conclusion
Usually, you need to check and clean vinyl fencing periodically, though it generally requires only a little attention. Be aware of any problems that may arise to maintain the aesthetic value and stability of the fence. By adhering to these basic guidelines for vinyl fence maintenance, you will ensure that your Vinyl Fencing Ottawa lasts longer than its expected lifestyle to lifespan. It will continue to add value to your property’s appearance for many more years to come. Know more about a related post!
Keep your fence looking great! Contact Commence Fence today for expert care and maintenance.