With its durability, low-maintenance requirements and strength, vinyl fences have become an increasingly popular choice for most homeowners today. Vinyl fences can complement your home’s aesthetics and provide you with privacy. To ensure that your vinyl fence remains clean and in the best shape, it is necessary to carry out regular maintenance on it. Here are some important tips to guide you on this.
Regular Cleaning
Every now and then, you would find that your vinyl fence is in need of a wash to free it from dust and dirt which may give it a dull appearance. Although it is generally advised to clean your vinyl fence twice every year, you may need to do this more frequently if you live in an area in which your fence is greatly exposed to dust.
To get your wall clean, first remove loose clumps of debris with water from a hose. Then you can proceed to wipe the surface with soapy water. It is recommended to use a brush with soft bristles to avoid damaging your fence. When you are done, go ahead to rinse off the wall with water from a hose.
Check for Issues
Every now and then, be sure to check your wall for any signs of damage such as breaks or cracks. These rarely occur but when they do, it is necessary to spot them early and get them fixed to avoid having to spend more on major repairs or replacements when the problems get worse. Are some screws coming loose? They would need some tightening.
Pay particular attention to the fence posts and their roots in the ground. If they are beginning to lean, this might be a good time to give the structure some additional support in the form of concrete for greater stability.
Control the Growth of Surrounding Vegetation
You may have some vegetation growing near or right next to the fence. If this is the case, be sure to regularly check and trim the leaves to ensure that they do not damage the wall. Some plants may produce substances that can stain your vinyl fence. Vegetation may also put pressure on the fence, causing it to bend. Keep your vegetation properly trimmed and placed with some distance away from the wall at all times.
Be Proactive Against Mold
Mold and mildew can grow on your vinyl wall especially in humid and damp weather conditions. It is necessary to find and remove any sign of this as soon as possible to keep your fence at its best quality. If you spot any mold, smear the area with a water and white vinegar solution and scrub it off with a brush after allowing it to sit for a couple of minutes. You can then use water from a hose to rinse your wall.
Shield From Direct Heat
Being a type of plastic, vinyl is not suitable for use in areas close to direct heat sources such as open fire pits, bonfires and grills. Be sure to situate any of these a good distance away from your vinyl fence to avoid causing it damage.
Winter Maintenance
Particularly cold winters may lead to some damage for your vinyl fence. For example, overhanging tree branches could fall, under the snow’s pressure, onto the fence and loose debris on the fence could get hardened by the cold. Be sure to clean your wall of all debris and dirt ahead of the winter season and ensure the wall is in no danger of being damaged by falling branches. Moreover, while removing snow from around your fence, use softer tools such as brooms rather than shovels to avoid damaging it.
Use Only Approved Paints
One major benefit of using vinyl fences is that they typically do not require repaints to restore their brightness. They come in a wide variety of colors and textures. However, some users may decide to change their fence’s color sometimes. If you choose to do this, be sure to use only paints that are approved for use on vinyl fences.
Key Don’ts in Vinyl Fence Maintenance
- Avoid cleaners containing ammonia.
- Don’t use tough chemicals such as bleach or acetone.
- Avoid scrubbing with hard materials such as abrasive scrubbing pads.
- Don’t scrub with too much force.
- Don’t use sharp tools such as knives to remove debris.
Conclusion
By utilizing the right techniques, tools and methods, you can ensure that your vinyl fence remains in the best shape for the longest time possible.
