How to Fix a Vinyl Fence: A Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Holes and Cracks
Vinyl fence fix: From fractured to fantastic
- Disposable gloves
- Garden hose
- Bucket
- Soft-bristled brush or sponge
- Damp cloth
- Water
- Dish soap
- Vinyl fence repair kit
Vinyl fencing offers plenty of perks, including durability and few maintenance requirements. The downside of this type of fence? It’s susceptible to different kinds of damage, including holes, cracks, dents, and warping. Luckily, fixing a damaged vinyl fence doesn’t always require a professional's help. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, you can use this guide to learn how to fix a vinyl fence in just eight steps.
Inspect the Damage
If your fence has a couple of small holes or dents, you can use a vinyl fence repair kit to fix it. However, this method won’t work if there’s widespread or significant damage. In that case, you’ll need to replace the damaged panels.
Clean the Damaged Area
Spray the damaged section of the fence with a garden hose, making sure to get rid of any dirt and debris.
In a bucket, combine a squirt of dish soap with a gallon of warm water. Dunk your brush or sponge into the soapy water and scrub the damaged panel to clean the vinyl fence.
Sand the Area
Photo: FluxFactory/ Getty ImagesUsing the sandpaper from your fence repair kit, sand 8 inches around all sides of the hole or crack. Focus on removing any loose vinyl from the fence.
When you’re done, wipe the area with a damp cloth.
Cut and Apply the Adhesive Patch
If needed, use scissors to trim down the patch to fit over the hole or crack. Make sure it’s big enough to extend at least 1 inch over the damage on all sides.
Apply the Compound
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the compound. Use the kit’s putty knife to apply the compound over the patch, then smooth it out.
Let It Dry
Let the compound dry completely. This could take up to several hours, depending on the product you used and the weather conditions in your area.
Apply a Second Layer of Compound
Add another layer of compound over the first one following the same process described in step five. Leave it to dry.
Sand the Fence
When the second layer of compound is fully dry, sand over the patch and compound to help it blend in with the rest of the fence.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Patching a small crack or hole in your vinyl fence is a fairly simple DIY task that costs $50 or less. Vinyl fence repair kits come with almost everything you need for the job, so you won’t have to blow your budget on any extra tools or supplies.
However, if your fence needs extensive repairs, it’s easier to hire a fencing pro near you instead of trying to fix it yourself. You’ll pay $50 per hour for a professional’s services (not including the materials), but if you’re short on time or want to avoid the hassle, it’s an option worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you hire a professional, vinyl fence repairs cost $30 per foot. The total cost depends on a few factors, including type and extent of the damage and the price of labor in your area. Alternatively, you can go the DIY route and patch a hole or fix a dent in your vinyl fence for $40 to $50.
In many cases, yes, homeowners insurance covers fences. Home insurance policies protect your home and other structures on your property, often including fences. So, if the fence damage was caused by a covered event (like a storm or fire), your insurer may cover some of the cost to repair or replace your fence.
The average lifespan of a vinyl fence is 20 to 30 years. But with regular maintenance and care, some vinyl fences can last up to 50 years. To keep your fence in good shape, we recommend cleaning it every few months with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap, regularly inspecting it for damage, and trimming nearby trees to reduce the chance of impact damage or mold growth.
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