Month: May 2024

Not All Vinyl Fencing is Created Equal

When it comes to choosing the right type of fence for your home, the stakes are higher than you might think. A fence serves as more than a boundary. It is also an extension of your home and style as well as a significant investment in your property’s value and safety.

Among the plethora of fencing materials available, vinyl has become a popular choice for homeowners. But before you decide to encircle your home with this modern material, it’s crucial to understand that not all vinyl fencing is created with equal quality.

Understanding the Basics of Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing, known for its durability, low maintenance, and versatility in design, is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), combined with special ingredients that provide color, strength, and UV protection. Compared to traditional materials like wood or metal, vinyl stands out for its longevity without the need for frequent painting or treatment against rust or rot.
The fencing market provides a wide range of styles and designs, from privacy and picket fences to ornamental and post-and-rail fences, ensuring there’s a vinyl fence to suit any aesthetic preference. However, the choice doesn’t end at just picking a style; the quality of vinyl fencing can vary significantly, affecting not just its appearance but also its durability and lifespan.

Factors That Differentiate Quality in Vinyl Fencing

Material Quality

The thickness, durability, and composition of the vinyl itself are key indicators of quality. Higher-quality vinyl fences are thicker, making them more resistant to impact damage and the wear and tear of everyday use. They are also composed of vinyl that includes a higher concentration of PVC, ensuring the fence’s strength and longevity.

UV Protection and Impact Resistance

Quality vinyl fencing comes with added UV inhibitors that protect it from the sun’s harsh rays, preventing fading, yellowing, and brittleness in an effort to help vinyl fences last longer. Additionally, top-notch options have superior impact modifiers that enhance the fence’s ability to withstand physical shocks and changing weather conditions without cracking or breaking.

Manufacturing Process

The method used to produce the vinyl fencing also plays a major role in its quality. Two common processes are mono-extrusion and co-extrusion. Mono-extrusion crafts the entire product from a single layer of vinyl, ensuring uniformity in quality and protection throughout. Co-extrusion, on the other hand, uses multiple layers, which can create products of slightly lesser quality if not done correctly.
Quality vinyl fencing is characterized by no fading or yellowing, is made with pure PVC, contains high levels of titanium dioxide for UV protection, is engineered to handle temperature fluctuations, and meets ASTM standards.
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) offers product ratings and technical standards for a variety of products, including vinyl fencing. They have a minimum level of compliance that products must satisfy in order to meet the ASTM standards.
It’s important to understand that some manufacturers use pipe specifications that are not as demanding for impact resistance or UV protection as ASTM standards are.

How to Select the Right Vinyl Fence for Your Home or Commercial Property

Selecting the right vinyl fence goes beyond just picking a style that complements your home or business; it’s about matching your needs with the right features while considering your budget and long-term maintenance costs. Here are a few steps to guide you:
  • Visualize the fence in your space and determine the primary purpose of your fence—privacy, aesthetics, security, etc.
  • Research the different qualities of vinyl fencing and identify brands or models that are renowned for their quality.
  • Consider the long-term maintenance costs. Higher upfront costs for quality vinyl can lead to savings down the line due to fewer repairs or replacements.
  • Engage with reputable companies for your vinyl fence installation. A company experienced in vinyl fencing will point you toward the best options for your needs and ensure a professional installation that stands the test of time.

Choosing the Right Vinyl Fence Installer for Your Property

In addition to selecting the right vinyl fence, it’s important to choose a professional and reliable installer. A poorly installed fence can quickly become an eyesore and fail to provide the desired level of functionality or security. Be sure to research and compare companies, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends or family before making your decision.
Other factors to consider when choosing a vinyl fence installation company include:
  • Years of experience and specialization in vinyl fencing
  • Warranty offered for the installation and materials used
  • Customer service and responsiveness to concerns or inquiries

Work with Pittsburgh Fence Company Today!

Choosing the right vinyl fencing for your home requires a balance between aesthetic desires and practical considerations. Understanding the differences in quality among the varieties of vinyl fencing available in the market is crucial. With this knowledge, you’re better equipped to make a decision that not only enhances the beauty of your home but also adds value and requires minimal maintenance over time.
Working with an experienced company like Pittsburgh Fence Company can make all the difference for homeowners looking to make an informed decision on their fencing. Pittsburgh Fence Company offers a range of high-quality vinyl fence options, including Country Estate, Illusions, and Bufftech. These brands are consistently high quality and are made with carefully selected components to increase long-term performance and durability.
For decades, we’ve offered expert vinyl fence installation services to Pittsburgh homeowners and clients all over western Pennsylvania. We’re excited to provide you with the same level of expertise and superior customer service.
With quality vinyl fencing from Pittsburgh Fence Company, you can rest assured knowing that your investment will stand the test of time and bring value to your property for years to come. Don’t settle for less; choose the best for your home or business.