How to Repair a Vinyl Fence 

Vinyl fencing is generally low-maintenance. Still, there are a lot of ways it sustains damage. Improper installation, extreme weather, and impact from heavy objects can create holes or cracks. You may have even inherited a poorly maintained old fence when you bought your property. 

Let’s discuss how to repair a vinyl fence. We’ll share simple fixes for common issues, as well as how to identify when it’s time for new fencing. 

The secret to fixing a vinyl fence 

The secret to fixing a vinyl fence is catching it early. A small crack can be repaired, but a larger crack means the panel or picket needs replacing. 

Small problems usually turn into big ones. Once a crack spreads, replacement is the most effective solution. So, assess the damage and be honest about what’s possible before you hit the nearest home improvement store. 

Types of vinyl fence damage 

Here’s what to look for when assessing a vinyl fence for damage: 

• Rust or corrosion on hardware 

• Loose panels or posts 

• Mildew, mold, or algae 

• Warped panels 

• Cracks 

• Holes 

How to repair small cracks or holes in a vinyl fence 

 When caught quickly, a small crack or hole in a vinyl fence is relatively easy to address. To fix it, you’ll need: 

• Sandpaper 

• Utility knife 

• Mild cleanser diluted in water 

• Vinyl fence repair kit or vinyl fence patch kit 

Note: If you have experience with other types of filler compounds on hand (such as automotive), you may be able to patch a hole with it.  

First, remove any jagged or rough edges from the hole or crack with sandpaper and a utility knife. The edges should be as smooth as possible for a seamless result.  

Next, wash and dry the area thoroughly. You don’t want any dust or dirt left behind to get sealed to the fence.  

Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the patch kit. A compound kit will include everything you need to spread the composite and fill the hole or crack. From there, you need to let it dry and sand it smooth. 

A patch kit will include an adhesive vinyl patch to be cut to size and smoothed over small holes. Be sure to firmly and repeatedly press down the edges of the patch.  

PRO TIP: Most vinyl fence repair kits come in white. Many vinyl patches are manufactured to go under paint, so touching up shouldn’t be an issue. Check the information on compound kits to make sure it’s suitable to paint over. 

How to remove mold or mildew from vinyl fences 

You may need to try a few different solutions to kill mold and mildew: 

• Vinegar – Mix ½ cup of distilled vinegar in water and use a soft scrub brush. 

• Bleach – Use a few tablespoons of bleach in half a gallon of water with a soft scrub brush. Test an inconspicuous area first. NEVER use undiluted or high-ratio bleach solutions on vinyl; it can break down some finishes and discolor colored fences. 

• Commercial cleaner – If regular household cleaners don’t work, check out cleaners specially formulated to remove mold and mildew from exterior vinyl.  

 Discovering the source of the mildew or mold growth is just as important as cleaning it.  

 Check for drainage issues around the fence. Growth will reoccur if water is pooling or flowing at the fence line. Using landscaping to address soil erosion may help.  

 The fence may also be installed too low to the ground. Consult a professional for advice. We also have a great article on how to clean a vinyl fence.

What about broken or loose posts? 

Damaged or loose posts are a serious threat to a vinyl fence. The entire fence line can come down during the next weather event. Posts will need to be reset or replaced.  

In many instances, it’s better to have a professional handle this. If you know what you’re doing, our guide to removing metal fence posts can help. 

When is it time to replace a vinyl fence? 

Sometimes, the time and money spent on repair might be better off going toward new fencing. Here are some signs it’s time to replace a vinyl fence: 

• Excessive mold or growth cannot be scrubbed off 

• Posts are damaged or ground shifting has made footers unstable 

• Multiple sections of the fence have large cracks or holes, or there are widening gaps between panels and posts 

• The fence is discolored or faded to such a degree that restoration isn’t an option 

 There are solutions for every budget. If one section of a fence is irreparably damaged but the other still looks decent, you may not need total replacement.  

 A trustworthy fencing professional can help you decide what’s essential for the security and appearance of your perimeter. 

Contact Top Rail Fence for repairs, replacement, and expert advice 

Vinyl fences are a lot more resistant to fading and damage than they used to be. If you need advice on repair or complete or partial replacement, call Top Rail Fence.  

You’ll get expert installation of premium materials customized to your needs and property. Our standards mitigate many of the factors that lead to damage.  

Vinyl fence repair FAQs 

How to fix a warped vinyl fence? 

Replacing the warped panel, slat, or picket is often the only way to fix it completely.  

Some people find success with the heat gun method. A heat gun can make vinyl malleable enough to manually manipulate back into shape. This is only advisable for experienced users as it can worsen the warping if done incorrectly. 

Do vinyl fences break easily? 

Today’s vinyl fences are very durable and will not break easily on their own. Older vinyl fences that endure extreme temperature changes may be prone to breaking. They can also be more susceptible to breakage if the posts aren’t set right or it isn’t anchored properly. 

Which lasts longer, wood or vinyl? 

It depends on the quality and the environment. A treated cedar wood fence can easily last as long or longer than a good-quality vinyl fence, exceeding 30 years.  

A treated pine fence may not last as long as quality vinyl, as they average 15-20 years. The difference is that homeowners can often tolerate the look of aging wood more than that of aging vinyl. They may therefore be more likely to completely replace the vinyl after a few decades.