How to install composite fence | DIY installation overview

Whether you are planning to install a new fence to protect the privacy of your backyard or want a purely decorative fence. Install composite fencing that can meet your needs. Composite fencing offers more benefits than traditional wood fencing. This is why composite fencing has become the most popular fencing material. So, what are the advantages of composite fencing?

Advantages of composite fence

Unlike wood, decorative composite fence panels do not warp or rot. And composite fence has the advantages of easy installation, low maintenance, water, and mildew resistance. On the other hand, composite fencing can last up to 30 years or more, making it more durable than most traditional wood fences.

In terms of style, composite fencing offers homeowners a variety of options. In addition to the look of faux natural wood, composite fencing also includes striking looks in classic and contemporary tones. So, no matter what design style you have for your home. You can find the right composite fence to decorate your outdoor space.

Composite fencing is made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fiber. Therefore, the use of horizontal composite fencing can better protect the environment. Also, this is why composite fencing has more advantages than wood fencing.

Composite fencing can increase the resale value of a home. Buyers, I believe would prefer to buy an outdoor fence that requires little to no maintenance. Instead of choosing a wooden fence that requires regular maintenance. The latter will not only take up a lot of the homeowner’s time but will continue to increase its maintenance costs.

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Cost of different fencing materials

The issue of cost is one of the most important issues when building an outdoor living space. So what are the costs of different fencing materials?

Wood fences

In comparison to composite and vinyl fencing, wood fencing has the lowest installation cost. Different types of wood can greatly affect your costs, as the cost can range from $10 to $40 per linear foot. For example, common pressure-treated pine can cost very little. Tropical hardwoods with superior performance, on the other hand, can cost a lot.

While a wood fence may be cheaper to install, it requires more maintenance. Temperature fluctuations from seasonal changes can cause wood to expand and contract. This is the main reason why traditional wood fences crack or split. Also, these cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the wood and lead to the growth of mold and decay. As a result, wood fences also require maintenance every few years to ensure their beautiful appearance. This also results in more time and maintenance costs for the homeowner.

Vinyl fencing

Vinyl fencing is also easy to install, as it usually has notches that fit together without screws. The installation cost of vinyl fencing ranges from $20 to $25 per linear foot. That said, the initial cost of vinyl fencing is higher than wood fencing.

But vinyl fencing has some drawbacks. If part of the vinyl fence is damaged, then you will need to replace the entire panel instead of one or two slats. While vinyl fencing is easy to clean, it is prone to mold and fading. This also causes you to need regular maintenance to ensure its continued aesthetic appearance.

Composite fencing

Comparing wood fencing to vinyl fencing, composite fencing has the highest initial cost. The installation cost of composite fencing ranges from $25 to $40 per linear foot. However, composite fencing has better environmental resilience due to the nature of the constituent materials.

Composite fencing will not crack or become moldy or faded. This means that once installed, composite fencing requires little maintenance. It allows you to have more time to enjoy life instead of performing maintenance work.

How do I install a composite fence?

It is important to note that before you purchase the material. You need to check your local building codes to see if you need a permit to build. Avoid unnecessary hassles due to local building codes.
Composite fencing is very easy to install. Even if you don’t have relevant installation experience, you can install your own DIY outdoor fence. Next, we explain step-by-step how to install a DIY composite fence. Of course, you can also seek the help of a local building contractor.

Draw the fence line

Before proceeding with the installation of the composite fence. You will need to measure the yard to determine the length of the horizontal composite fencing. This figure is then used to determine how many fence posts and fence panels will be needed. For example, if you have composite fencing panels that are four feet long. Then you will need to install fence posts every four feet to maintain stability. This work will help you minimize costs by avoiding the purchase of excess materials.

Digging post holes

Once the fence line is drawn, draw your fence on paper. Then use stakes and spray paint to mark the location of the post holes. After marking the location of the post holes, we start the work of digging the post holes. The standard for digging post holes is at least 1/3 of the height of the fence to maintain stability.

Once you have dug the holes, you will need to pour cement to create the footer. Use your digging tool to create a curved channel before pouring. Then, pour the cement and stand the post. This helps prevent water from entering the post and helps the post adhere to the cement.

Installing decorative composite fence panels

The cement will take a day or two to cure. Once the cement has cured, you need to determine the height of the panels. Keep the floor height in mind before installing the panels. The new composite fence should be kept far enough off the ground. It will keep other small animals from getting into your yard while ensuring that your pets do not tip out.

Run string lines and set corners

To keep your new fence straight and level, run a line from one corner to the other. This will be your guide for installing the fence panels. Corner braces can also provide additional stability. If you are using corner braces, you will need a diagonal brace on each side of the fence.

Installing the fence gate

Once the composite fence is installed, we need to install a fence gate. When installing the fence gate, we will need heavy-duty screws and a level to make sure it is straight. One thing to keep in mind is to make sure your gate has the proper clearance to swing inward or outward! After installation is complete, open and closes your gate a few times to make sure it is fully functional.

Conclusion

Building a DIY composite fence can be a rewarding project. Not only will it provide you with a private space, but it will also increase the value of your property. If you plan to install your own DIY composite fence. You can also get detailed installation instructions from the composite manufacturer.