Why the Wall Thickness of Your Vinyl Fence is Important

Yes, the wall thickness of vinyl fencing does matter to a point. Like most construction materials there are minimum standards and there can also be overkill. For example, most classic-style privacy fences use a 1.5” x 5.5” pocket rail and have a metal insert in the bottom rail. The metal insert will support the weight of the fence, so an extremely thick rail will just make the fence more expensive and not provide any more support. On the other hand, if the vinyl is too thin and still has a metal insert in the bottom rail, the rails could have long-term durability issues like warping, cracking, and complete failure. 

In our 25+ years of experience, we recommend the following minimum standards of vinyl fencing:

Posts:

• 5” x 5” min 0.130 / max 0.150
• 4” x 4” min 0.130 / max 0.140

Rails:

• Privacy Fence min 0.080 / max 0.095
• Ranch Rail min 0.080 / max 0.110
• Picket Fence min 0.090 / max 0.120

Pickets:

• Privacy Tongue & Grove min 0.040 / max 0.065
• Picket min 0.065 / max 0.080

Vinyl wall thickness between the minimum and maximum standard will generally indicate higher quality and durability. The walls are more resistant to impact and are less likely to warp or bend over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. They also provide better support for the fence's structure, particularly for taller fences where wind resistance is a concern. Wind is a major contributor to fencing failure. However, the tricks of the trade to make a vinyl fence withstand wind have nothing to do with the wall thickness. Instead, it concerns the installation method (see DBVF installation instructions). Most vinyl manufacturers have good quality fences they supply to their customers. Beware of box-store vinyl fencing and installers that use box-store fences. These types of fencing will have a much thinner walled material by design and most likely will not meet your durability and performance requirements.