PVC Fencing Install Instructions

Install Instructions – We are here to help!

Step 1-Pounding the Galvanized Steel Posts

Call your local area utility company to come mark underground lines before any digging or pounding any posts into the ground. Start by laying out your fence post installation plan to determine the best fit for the last couple sections in your run. You do not want a short section at the end. Mark your posts at 42″ then pound the posts down into the ground until you have hit your 42″ marker. Start by pounding one post at each corner of where your fence will be. Place a string line around them to make sure your posts will line up straight along the line. Use a 9′ torpedo level to help ensure the posts are level while pounding. The levelling collars will allow for some adjustment after. Put your collars on before you pound the posts into the ground.

Download fence install instructions here.

Download gate install instructions here.

The ideal spacing between the posts can be found by using a rail as a spacer between the posts.

Continue to pound in the post along your string line until you reach your other corner or end post.

Step 2- Setting Post Collars

Secure your top collars at each end of the fence line. Run a string line between them to check alignment. All other collars along the line should be able to reach this string, ensuring a perfectly level fence post installation.

Set and screw all your top collars to the string line.

Your bottom collar can be set a couple inches above ground level at the base of your post Setting the collar at the bottom of the post will allow for adjustment of the fence height if frost heave occurs. Use a long level to set the bottom collar level with the top collar.

Continue till all bottom collars are levelled to the top collar.

Step 3 – Setting Posts

Slide your 5″ x 5″ PVC vinyl posts over the steel posts and collars. Use corner posts for corners and line posts in between. Ensure the 4″ spacing is at the bottom and the 2″ spacing at the top rail hole. This is a key step in accurate vinyl fence installation.

Step 4- Bottom Rails

Insert bottom rails into the PVC posts. These rails have metal inserts to prevent sagging. Insert one side, then lift the opposite 5×5 post slightly off the bottom collar for easier rail placement. Set the post back down once the rail is slotted in. You may need to trim the rails for shorter sections.

Step 5- Setting Post Height

You can set the height on end posts and corner posts by drilling a 3” screw (or two) into the bottom collar through the vinyl post. Use a string line running over the top of your end posts for each fence line. Then raise the rest of your posts to the string line and fasten to the collar and pipe. This vinyl fence post installation method ensures accuracy and strength throughout your fence line. You can put the 3” screw through the PVC post, collar and into your steel pipe. This will provide more strength than just screwing into your collar. Use 3” or 4” self tapping screws that will reach into the steel pipe when leveling your fence.

Step 6 – Install pickets and top rails

Install your U channel centered against the 5×5 post.

Stand your pickets in the bottom rail. You may need to use a table saw to trim down a panel if you end up with a shorter section. If you have your spacing correct you should not need to trim panels. If your fence is on a slope you may need to cut the corners of pickets at the top and bottom to accommodate for the slope. This step is crucial for a smooth and precise vinyl fence installation. After all your pickets are in place, place the top rail over the pickets and into the posts. Make sure your rail is evenly spaced between both posts.

Step 7 – Top Rail Tie and cap

Put a square rail tie in the top of each post. It should sit flat on top of your top rails. Put a screw through the square rail tie into each rail inside the post. Lastly put your post caps on top of your 5×5 posts. You can use silicone to hold them in place if you wish.