The popularity of vinyl fence and decking

Vinyl is not a new material, but its use in fencing and decking has exploded in the past 20 years. Vinyl fences are popping up in the entrances to new subdivisions, in agricultural applications, as front porch railing, and in privacy fences in suburban back yards across the country.

Why use vinyl for fences and decks?

Vinyl fences are an answer to today’s busy lifestyles. They are versatile, strong, durable, and virtually maintenance-free. This has great appeal, because most homeowners don’t have time to paint and repair their fences and would rather use their precious free time to enjoy their fenced-in yards and gardens.

The biggest advantage of vinyl is that it requires almost no maintenance aside from occasional washing. Vinyl comes in a variety of fade-proof colors and does not need to be painted. A homeowner will not have to worry about broken boards, sagging rails, or rusted bars. It is moisture-repellant, rot-resistant, flame-retardant, and electrically nonconductive.

The smooth finish of vinyl fencing means that homeowners will not have to worry about splinters, nails, or screws. It is safe for children and animals, and in fact, one of its earliest applications was in agriculture for this very reason. A vinyl fence is difficult for a pet to climb, break, or chew, so it can help avoid the problem of escaping. Vinyl fences also hold up well to routine lawn maintenance, including mowing and weed-eating.

Vinyl fencing is often initially more expensive than wood, but because of its low maintenance and durability it is cheaper in the long run. It will outlast wood by many years and will not yellow or fade. It is also extremely strong yet pliable, and will not break unless subjected to an unusual impact, even in cold weather.

Vinyl is also extremely versatile. Fence manufacturers have come up with vinyl alternatives for nearly every type of fencing available, except for perhaps chain link. In fact, vinyl is the second-largest selling plastic and is considered the material of choice for a huge variety of applications in other industries as well.

The history of vinyl

In the late 1800s, European researchers created a new rigid material that they considered to be a useless laboratory curiosity. In 1926, BFGoodrich researcher Dr. Waldo Semon experimented with the discarded material, combining it with other chemicals and exposing it to heat. He created plasticized polyvinyl chloride, now commonly called PVC. He continued to experiment with this new material throughout the 1920s but discovered no real use for it.

PVC’s first commercial use was as a shock absorber seal in the 1930s. From there, vinyl’s formulas and uses began to expand. It was used as a replacement for rubber during World War II and became the standard material for wire insulation. Rigid vinyl pipe was introduced in the 1950s.

Vinyl was first used for fencing applications in the horse farm industry. Horse farm owners found that it was safer for their horses because it allowed more give than wood and would not splinter. Another advantage was its white color, allowing the horses to see it better at night, and the fact that it has no taste, reducing horses’ urge to chew on the fence.

By the 1980s, vinyl railing was being used on front porches. As manufacturing systems grew more sophisticated and the material continued to be improved for construction applications, market demand grew and the vinyl fence industry was launched. Now vinyl is used everywhere that traditional wood or metal railings and fences are found. The latest use for vinyl is in decking, which is popular for its slip-resistance, low maintenance, and lack of splintering.

The market for vinyl fence products in the United States has more than tripled since 1987 and shows every indication of continuing to boom. It is the fastest-growing segment of the fencing market and has a huge potential for growth as homeowners replace older wood fences and decks.

How vinyl is made

Vinyl, or PVC, is made from chlorine, which comes from salt, and ethylene, from crude oil. These compounds are chemically blended at very high temperatures to become polyvinyl chloride resin, a chemically stable powder. This vinyl resin is mixed with various additives that add strength and ultraviolet resistance. This blend is then heated to the polymer melting point, forced through a die to create the desired shape, and cooled.

Some vinyl processes use two blends of the material to be applied in layers. The outer layer, called the “capstock,” contains a high concentrate of UV protection. The inner layer, called the substrate, generally has less UV protection. The main ultraviolet inhibitor used in vinyl is called titanium dioxide, which is a white pigment. This pigment makes it difficult to obtain dark colors, such as black, in vinyl fencing and decking.

The end result is a decking and fencing material that is sturdy and durable. It also weathers well, resisting fading and yellowing.

Vinyl fence styles

Vinyl is one of the most versatile fencing materials available, and the sheer volume of choices helps homeowners find just the right look. A wide variety of color choices are available, including white, gray, tan, green, and some cedar wood colors. It can be manufactured to match a house’s siding if desired.

Traditional white picket fences made from vinyl are popular with homeowners and can be used to contain small pets and children while maintaining a charming, open look. If they are at least four feet tall, picket fences also are safe and popular as pool enclosures.

Vinyl privacy fences effectively shield a property from prying eyes. They can be build solid for increased soundproofing or in a more open style that allows wind to pass through. Tall vinyl privacy fences also are used in commercial and industrial applications, where they can screen unsightly areas or employee areas from public view.

Ornamental-style vinyl fence is a popular choice with many businesses. It’s durable and strong, yet open enough to see into. Vinyl Fence is also a great choice for enclosing playgrounds and swimming pools. Many styles are available, including scalloped edges, lattice tops, and other variations.

Post and rail styles of vinyl fence add a rural look to a home or subdivision entrance. They also are useful for containing larger animals such as horses.

For decking, vinyl is used everywhere that wood can be, including steps, rails, and planks. Vinyl in this use looks quite a bit different from wood, although it can be matched perfectly to the exterior treatment of the home it is attached to. For decking, vinyl’s smooth surface is etched to provide slip-resistance.

Environmental concerns

Vinyl one of the world’s most analyzed materials, and it is considered the most energy-efficient plastic available. Most vinyl products are very long-lived, and it primarily comes from salt, which is a renewable and inexpensive resource. Less than half of the material in vinyl (about 43 percent) comes from nonrenewable petroleum.

Vinyl is extremely cost-efficient in terms of raw material usage, energy used in production, energy used in distribution, and maintenance costs. In addition, it is relatively simple to recycle in incinerators.

Scrap vinyl also can be recycled into a variety of new products, including fencing, even after a lifetime of use in other products. Post-industrial recycling is widespread, ensuring that more than 99 percent of all manufactured vinyl ends up in a finished product. Post-consumer recycling continues to grow, and the demand for recycled vinyl far outstrips the supply.

Although vinyl contains chlorine, the process of producing it chemically locks the chlorine into the product. Whether it is recycled, disposed of in a landfill, or disposed of in a modern incinerator, it will not release chlorine gas into the atmosphere.

Vinyl poses no known risks to human health, either in the manufacturing process or in consumer end use.

Maintaining a vinyl fence

Vinyl is valued highly for its low maintenance. In fact, many vinyl fences come with long, or even lifetime, warranties. The fence can be hosed off to clean it, or if a more thorough cleaning is needed, a mild abrasive can be used.

Light chalking is common and normal in vinyl fences. This is easily washed away by wind and rain.

Vinyl fences do not require painting, but if you choose to paint one, you should use an epoxy-based paint to adhere to the smooth surface. A painted vinyl fence will require repainting periodically, and painting a vinyl fence often will negate the manufacturer’s warranty.

Vinyl Privacy Fence.

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