This document outlines specific techniques developed by Gifford Fence Company LLC to improve the strength and stability of professional-grade tongue & groove vinyl privacy fences. While the modular design of these wood fence offers advantages during severe weather events like hurricanes, it also presents security vulnerabilities. Our methods address these weaknesses to provide a more robust and secure fence.
Robust Post Setting with Concrete
To ensure the stability of our vinyl privacy fences, we prioritize the secure installation of fence posts:
- Ample Concrete: Each post is secured with a minimum of 60lbs of concrete, with a total post depth of 3 feet. This substantial amount of concrete reliably holds the post in place after setting.
- Avoiding Post Disturbance: A critical rule during installation is to avoid shaking the post once the concrete has been poured. Disturbing the wet concrete can create a gap between the post and the setting concrete, resulting in a loose post even after the concrete hardens.
- Curing Time for Gates: To prevent stress on gate posts and ensure proper concrete setting, we request customers to refrain from using gates for at least 48 hours after installation. This prevents shaking of the gate hinge or latch posts.
Securing Top Rails for Enhanced Security and Strength
A key technique to counteract the modular nature of vinyl fences and enhance both security and overall strength involves securing the top rail:
- Addressing Modular Weakness: The modular design allows for easy removal of the top rail and subsequently pickets, posing a security risk. The plastic tabs on the rails, designed to lock into the posts, are not always secure and can be prone to breaking.
- Strategic Screw Installation: To overcome this limitation, we install a screw through the top of the top rail, inside the post wall. This screw presses against the post wall, effectively holding the rail in place.
- Benefits of Securing Top Rails: This simple measure offers significant improvements:
- Increased Security: It prevents the top rail from being easily pulled out, making the fence more secure.
- Enhanced Strength: It helps to pull the fence posts and panels together, contributing to the overall rigidity and strength of the fence.
Custom Gate Construction with Essential Support
We custom build our vinyl gates to accommodate varying ground levels and fit within specific space constraints. A crucial element in ensuring the longevity and functionality of a vinyl gate is proper support:
- Addressing Gate Sagging: A significant issue with vinyl gates is the tendency to sag over time.
- Implementation of Cross Member Support: To prevent sagging, we install a cross member support that runs diagonally from the top of the hinge-side upright to the bottom of the latch-side upright.
- Cross Member Options: This support can be achieved using simple matching vinyl V braces or commercially available black metal supports.
- Minimum Length Requirement: For a standard 6-foot tall fence, the cross member support should have a minimum length of 8 feet to provide adequate reinforcement.
