Maybe you were the one who installed the vinyl fence, or maybe you’ve done other work for a home or business owner and they’re asking if you can fix their issue. Either way, you want to be able to offer them a quick and effective solution to the problem they’re facing. You can make some money with the repair and support a strong relationship with your customer at the same time.
Fortunately, a lot of vinyl fence problems come with relatively fast fixes. Let’s walk through a few options contractors should have in their toolbox.
For sagging gates
If the gate isn’t latching easily anymore or is dragging on the ground, the first place to check is the hinge hardware. The screws could be stripped, so choosing a longer option often helps to re-secure the gate in its proper place.
If the hardware isn’t the problem, next check the hinge post. If it’s leaning, backfill it and compact the area.
If that still doesn’t do it, the gate panel itself might need some attention. They make adjustable gate braces you can attach across the panel to resquare it.
Leaning posts
Whether the fence is visibly leaning or the property owner noticed some gaps between panels, a leaning post is best fixed now. The more it’s allowed to get out of alignment, the bigger the toll it will take on the fence.
Get out your level and move the post back into proper alignment. To reset the post, you can backfill and compact the area if you’re really trying to accomplish a quick fix. Pouring new concrete will provide longer-lasting results.
If the post itself needs some support, add a metal post stiffener. With a vinyl fence, you can often find ones to fit inside the post.
As you’re fixing the post, ask the property owner if they water anything near that post or if water collects there after a rain. Any moisture pooling there can cause future problems, so you may want to work with them to improve drainage in the area.
Loose panels
Because vinyl expands and contracts, it can sometimes slip out of snug alignment.
In some cases, a firm tap with a rubber mallet is all that’s needed to snap the panel back into place. If you notice that any of the tabs or rails are damaged, though, they probably need replacement. Our team can help you find the right fit for your replacement part.
Some adhesive that works with vinyl can also help you secure loose panels, but only as a complement to other work you’re doing. Remember, vinyl expands and contracts in changing temperatures. You don’t want to use the adhesive in any way that will be compromised by that movement.
Mold or mildew stains
Good news: scrubbing with a soft brush and mild soap and water is usually enough to remove staining from vinyl. If that doesn’t work, use a vinyl-safe cleaning product to restore the fence to sparkling.
Before you part ways with that home or business owner, share some maintenance tips with them to prevent future issues.
We’re here to help, too. If you need suggestions about the best way to fix a fence problem or you require a custom-fabricated part for the repair, contact our Vinyl Craft team today.
