If you've been shopping for a new fence, then you have probably come across and considered vinyl or PVC fencing. Although this is one of the most common types of fencing in the United States, many homeowners or fences made from the material.

To ensure you make a smart and informed decision when fence shopping, keep reading to learn six interesting facts about vinyl and vinyl fences.

1. Vinyl Is a Type of Plastic

Plastic is a generic term that describes a range of materials, from the thin plastic used to make Ziplock bags to the hard plastic used to make fences and pipes. The full name for vinyl is polyvinyl chloride, which is abbreviated to PVC. Vinyl is the third most common plastic in the world, largely due to its wide-scale use in windows, pipes, fences, and other construction elements.

2. Vinyl Has Some Lesser-Known Uses

Vinyl is more versatile than many people realize. In addition to construction materials, it is also used to make water-resistant clothing; even faux leather clothing is often made from vinyl. In the healthcare industry, plastic tubing that is used to collect urine and blood samples is generally made from vinyl. There are also vinyl-coated ropes used in the aerospace industry.

3. Vinyl Was Invented in the 1800s

Although vinyl fencing has only been popular for a few decades, vinyl has been around for more than 100 years. It was invented in 1872 by a German chemist named Eugene Baumann. At the time, Baumann was working on another project and accidentally left a tube of compounds in the sunlight. When he returned to the tube, he discovered a white substance, which was vinyl, inside the tube.

The vinyl-making process was perfected in the 1920s, resulting in a more flexible, useful material.

4. Vinyl Fencing Is Virtually Maintenance-Free

Almost every other type of fencing requires some maintenance - whether it be painting, staining, or scraping - but not vinyl. This material won't peel or chip as it ages, and it is impervious to moisture.

If you prefer, you can wash your vinyl fence by spraying it down with the hose, but this maintenance is not necessary to preserve the vinyl, only to keep it looking its best. If you ever accidentally get paint on the vinyl or it is defaced with graffiti, then you can remove the marks with a pressure washer.

5. Vinyl Is Very Dog-Friendly

Vinyl may actually be the most dog-friendly fence material available. Vinyl fencing can be made from solid panels that dogs cannot climb. Since the material is not painted or stained, you do not have to worry about your dog ingesting harmful compounds if he or she decides to chew the fence.

Vinyl also has a smooth texture, so your dog won't cause or irritate hot spots when he or she rubs against the fence as they might with a chain link or wood fence.

6. Vinyl Is Fire-Safe

Some homeowners worry about their fences getting struck by lightning or a fire starting that will then spread to their home. This is not a concern with vinyl fencing. Vinyl does not easily ignite, and its burning point is around 900 degrees F. This means you can safely use vinyl fencing around your grilling area or campfire area.



Now that you know a little more about vinyl, it's time to explore the many colors and styles that vinyl fences come in. Contact us at Duke Fence Co., Inc. to learn more about our vinyl fencing options or to request a free estimate. We look forward to working with you.