Answers to Your FAQs
The main ingredient in Vinyl Fence is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), an extremely versatile thermoplastic that is extruded for superior performance, stability, low maintenance, and long life. For vinyl to have the characteristics necessary for fencing, it is also combined with special additives and modifiers to make it strong and durable, additives that make the vinyl rigid yet flexible enough to resist cracking.
No. Yellowing and fading in vinyl products are due to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Our products contain 10 parts per 100 of titanium dioxide. This amount of titanium dioxide is like using SPF 40 sunscreen on your skin. It is more than sufficient to prevent damage from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
Unlike some treated wood fencing, vinyl is an environmentally safe material with no toxins to pollute the sky or seep into the ground. Vinyl fencing has a smooth surface, and there are no nails, sharp edges, or splinters.
The two most common methods for manufacturing vinyl fencing are a mono-extrusion process that uses one vinyl compound and a co-extrusion process that uses two or more vinyl compounds. Our products are made through the co-extrusion process, which lets the manufacturer engineer a greater strength and durability product. The best products are made from virgin vinyl, ensuring that the product is made using raw material most appropriate for its application.
No. Vinyl fence system components are available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses. Some manufacturers decrease their wall thickness to reduce costs, resulting in reduced strength and ultimately yielding inferior fence systems.
Not necessarily. A thinner fence system may bend easily, even in normal use. Additionally, a weak-fastening system for a post and rail connection can result in poor performance and dislodged rails. However, a properly engineered system with a heavier wall thickness and secure rail connection will make a stronger and more durable vinyl fence.
It is normal for materials to expand and contract during temperature changes. As with most plastics, vinyl will become less flexible in colder weather conditions. However, unless subjected to extraordinary impact, it will not break.
Our vinyl products have a high flash point of 900°F and do not readily ignite. If the fire is held to the vinyl, it will burn. As soon as the source of the fire is taken away, the vinyl will self-extinguish.
We do not recommend painting any of our products. Epoxy-based paint is the only paint that will adhere properly to the smooth vinyl surface. This type of paint damages the vinyl's surface and will void all warranties associated with our contract.
Vinyl is virtually maintenance-free, but you will need to keep it clean, just as you would do with a new vehicle. Cleaning can be done with very little effort using water and a soft brush. A mild detergent can be used if necessary.
You've made a great start by reading this information. Ask your dealer to give you detailed material specifications on the products he/she is proposing. Ask for samples of the product and make comparisons. Before signing a contract, be sure to check with your local Dept. of Consumer Affairs to ensure your contractor is properly Licensed & Insured.