A sloped property doesn't have to prevent you from enjoying the benefits of a vinyl fence. With the right tools and techniques, you can create a beautiful vinyl fence that harmonizes with the natural features of your residential or commercial property. There are two methods of installing vinyl fencing on a slope: racked and stepped.
Racked Fencing
Racked fencing involves angling the fence panels to follow the slope of the land while maintaining a consistent top rail height from the ground. Here's how to do it.
Preparation. Start by marking the post locations on your property, as you would for a level fence installation. Make sure the posts are perfectly vertical and adequately secured in the ground.
Panel installation. Attach your vinyl fence panels to the posts while allowing them to follow the slope. To achieve this, the fence panels are typically designed with pickets that are wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, allowing them to be racked.
Trimming. In some cases, you may need to trim the rails and fence panels to ensure a smooth and uniform look. This step is essential for maintaining a polished appearance.
Stepped Fencing
Stepped fencing is ideal for steeper inclines. Instead of angling the panels, you create a series of horizontal panels that look like tiered steps. Here's how it’s installed.
Post placement. As with racked fencing, mark and install your fence posts. However, in this method, the posts are set at different heights to create a stair-like effect. You may need to trim some posts to ensure they’re level.
Panel installation. Attach the fence panels between the posts, ensuring they’re level within each step. This method keeps the top rail of the fence horizontal as the fence as a whole accommodates the slope of the land.
Finishing touches. After securing the panels, add caps to the posts for a clean, polished look.
Racked vs. Stepped Fencing
When deciding between racked and stepped fencing, consider the slope’s grade. If it’s more than 15 degrees, stepped fencing is a better option. However, stepped fencing creates triangular gaps between the ground and the fence, so if you have pets to contain or you want to keep wildlife and other animals out, then racked fencing is a better solution.
Vinyl Fence Solutions in Edmonton
At Duraguard Fence Ltd., we provide vinyl fencing installation services, as well as DIY vinyl fence kits that you can install yourself. Fence kits come with all the materials you need to install a fence on a level or sloped yard. If it’s too much to handle, trust our vinyl fencing technicians to expertly install your residential, commercial or industrial fence in Edmonton or throughout Alberta. Contact us today to learn more about our fence products and services.
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