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4050 West River Dr., Comstock Park 616-785-8000
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Will polyvinyl crack, chip, peel, or rot?
During the life of the product you should not expect to find cracking, peeling, chipping, or rotting.
How is polyvinyl fence railing and decking made?
Polyvinyl fence is made of essentially the same material as vinyl siding and vinyl windows, NOT PVC pipe. The difference being that PVC pipe does use some of the same ingredients but does not have the weatherability and strength found in siding, windows, and fence.
What is extrusion?
There are two common methods of vinyl fence manufacturing: mono-extrusion (single layer) and co-extrusion (two-layer). Some manufacturers maintain and advertise that mono-extrusion is better. Which is better for you? In mono-extrusion, the fence profile (in sizes such as 2" x 6", 5" x 5", etc.) is made out of one layer of material. This process puts ultraviolet inhibitors (which protect the vinyl from sunlight) all the way through the product, even on the inside, where they are not needed. The ultraviolet inhibitor is the most expensive ingredient in the extrusion formula. Since mono-extrusion uses only one extruder instead of two and the mono-extrusion die is simpler to make, the fixed-asset investment at the factory in mono-extrusion can be as much as $200,000 less per profile. Mono-extrusion also requires less technical expertise on the factory floor. In co-extrusion, the fence profile is made out of two layers: an outer layer containing the ultraviolet inhibitor and an inside layer with less ultraviolet inhibitor ingredient. Co-extrusion demands a higher investment in equipment, tooling, training, and overall manufacturing sophistication, but involves significantly lower material costs. For years, only a few manufacturers in the vinyl fence business were co-extruding. Today, almost all key manufacturers co-extrude. These are reputable companies that back their products with up to lifetime warranties and independent product testing to ASTM vinyl fence standards. Some mono-extruding manufacturers warn that since co-extrusion can result in a different color of substrate material, a scratch on a co-extruded fence will reveal the substrate color - much like a scratch on a car will reveal the undercoat color. However, quality co-extruders make the outside layer thick enough so that a scratch will not penetrate to the substrate layer. You cannot "key" your way through to the substrate the way you can with a car; the top layer is just too thick. The following chart illustrates the effect mono and co-extrusion have on the consumer and manufacturer. Not all manufacturers offer the same features and benefits (e.g. different warranties). The same warranty is and should be available for mono or co-extruded products; whether the product is mono or co-extruded does not affect the warranty that can be offered.
What is virgin vinyl?
This is the term used for a vinyl product that does not contain recycled products. Recycled products that may be imported into an extrusion plant may contain impurities or lower grade vinyl. This can seriously affect the finished product's resilience, impact resistance, and UV inhibition. Digger Specialties, Inc. products are extruded using only virgin materials.
What variety of colors does your fence come in?
All of our vinyl fence products for property owners carry a Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty. Our warranty for commercial customers (non-living entities) is good for 30 years
Is the warranty important?
It is very important to look for a strong warranty and independent testing of the manufacturers product. Different polyvinyl product manufacturers provide a wide range of warranties. Some last only 20 years, while we back all of our polyvinyl products with a Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Why does warranty matter when you choose a polyvinyl fence or railing?
Manufacturers must use the right ingredients in the correct proportions, mixed and cooked at the proper temperature, to produce good polyvinyl. If this process is not followed correctly, the polyvinyl might have poor weathering. This could cause it to turn yellow, lack strength, or crack in harsh weather. Good polyvinyl fence manufacturers use ingredients and processing controls that ensure compliance to ASTM standards. Even in the best factory, things can sometimes go wrong. This is where quality control, quality and longevity of the manufacturer, and warranty come in. Good polyvinyl fence manufacturers recognize that you probably don't have the time or inclination to check and see if their product is manufactured to standards when you are buying it. These manufacturers assure customer satisfaction by issuing a strong, straightforward warranty. Digger Specialties, Inc. also adds another level of quality assurance by having our product independently tested by an outside professional testing agency.
How long will polyvinyl fencing last?
Polyvinyl fences are designed to last a lifetime.
Will polyvinyl fencing yellow over time?
Our vinyl fence and railing use a high content (10 parts per 100 parts) of TiO2 (titanium dioxide) and ultraviolet inhibitors, which have been proven to prevent yellowing. As a result, we can back our products with a Lifetime Limited Warranty against yellowing.
Can a vinyl fence break?
Any fence will break when enough force is applied. However, Digger Specialties, Inc. polyvinyl (PVC) profiles are formulated using only the highest quality impact modifiers in precisely engineered amounts to ensure the greatest impact resistance available. Our polyvinyl (PVC) profiles are engineered to withstand higher impacts than the minimum required by ASTM.
Does polyvinyl fence chalk as it weathers?
All vinyl fencing weathers and has some material fade and slight chalking sooner or later. With the superior protection capabilities of our TiO2, this will be kept to a bare minimum. Digger Specialties, Inc. vinyl is formulated for exceptional beauty over a full lifetime. By using durable grade non-chalking TiO2 in our vinyl formulation, we ensure there will be very minimal chalking of our fence products.
How does it stand up in the wind?
Polyvinyl fences are designed to withstand normal wind load. The amount of load is dependent on the installation of the posts and horizontal rails. Regional weather patterns may dictate specialized installation procedures. Experienced installers in high-wind areas usually order extra-long posts and sink them deeper into the ground. Our taller privacy fencing uses aluminum post stiffeners to add additional strength to withstand greater wind loads.
What is polyvinyl? What is PVC?
Crude oil, natural gas, and chloride are the raw materials used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. Vinyl compound is formulated from raw materials that include PVC resin, UV inhibitors (TiO2), impact modifiers, stabilizers, and toners. PVC is probably best known as the plumbing pipe at the hardware store. The plumbing in your house is probably PVC pipe, unless it's an older home. There's more to PVC than just pipe. Vinyl siding and vinyl windows used on homes are made of polyvinyl chloride, as are Digger Specialties, Inc. vinyl products. Inside the home, PVC is used to make linoleum for the floor. PVC is useful because it resists two things that hate each other: fire and water. Because of its water resistance, it is used to make raincoats, shower curtains, and of course, water pipes. It also has flame resistance because it contains chlorine, which inhibits combustion. For more information on PVC and related plastics, click here to visit the University of Southern Mississippi Department of Polymer Science.
Does it expand?
Polyvinyl materials do expand and contract during temperature changes. Digger Specialties, Inc. designs their products for normal expansion and contraction.
How mature is the vinyl fence industry?
Using vinyl for fence has been commercially active since the early 1980's. We have been producing high quality polyvinyl fence, railing, and decking since 1984. Vinyl was invented in the 1940’s; vinyl for siding began in the 1950's. In the 1980's, vinyl became the most often used material in windows. We believe that polyvinyl fence, railing, and decking is the next great use for vinyl and we expect polyvinyl to take a significant share of the wood fence, railing, and decking markets during the next 10 years. Invest in your fence once - buy PolyVinyl Fence, Railing, and Decking by Digger Specialties, Inc.
Can I paint my vinyl fence?
Polyvinyl products are engineered to retain their beauty and good looks throughout their lifetime. The only reason to use paints on our PolyVinyl products would be to change the color of the product. We do not recommend painting polyvinyl. There are paints that are available to paint vinyl but painting or otherwise treating Digger Specialties, Inc. PolyVinyl products voids the Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty.
How should I clean the fence?
As with all exterior products, our fence will become dirty when exposed to the elements. A mild detergent and water should be sufficient to keep your fence, deck, or railing looking new. For tough stains, Simple Green, Soft Scrub, or Baking Soda work well to clean stubborn stains.
Can polyvinyl fence sections be added long after a job is completed?
Yes. Over time, vinyl products will go through a natural weathering process and may not match perfectly to the original products. As in vinyl siding, colors fade and may not match properly when added on years later.
Can I get custom styles made? What limits are there on fence design?
Yes. Virtually most styles that can be made out of wood or ornamental iron can be made out of polyvinyl. We have over 20 basic styles of fence. However, we design and build many special fence requests, as long as the style has structural integrity.
How high can I make the fence?
This depends upon the style of fence. This question is better left to your local dealer. It is; however, recommended that any fence over 6' tall have the posts reinforced. Always check your local building code guidelines on fence height before installation.
Can you add gates?
Yes. Gates are made to match your polyvinyl fencing. Our gate frames are also aluminum reinforced to provide a longer lasting, strong, and beautiful gate.
Can you use polyvinyl in porch or guard railing?
Yes. When properly installed, our PolyRail® and PolyDeck® products make a very stable deck and porch rail system designed for use at ground level and on balconies. Our support posts are reinforced with aluminum or wood to be load bearing.
How is polyvinyl fence put together?
Most polyvinyl fence assembly is done by snapping the rails into the posts, using rails that are tabbed with a special tabbing or notching tool. Depending upon the styles of fence, different fasteners can be used. Polyvinyl channels, which are used in the fabrication of Privacy and Semi-Privacy styles, are attached to the posts using stainless steel screws.
Should the posts be cemented in the ground?
We recommend you treat polyvinyl posts the same as you would treat wood posts. If it is common and normal to cement fence posts in your area, then you should cement the vinyl posts. However, for maximum stability, we recommend posts be cemented in. Please note: while cement can reduce the life expectancy of wood, it has no negative effect on polyvinyl. This makes cementing polyvinyl posts in the ground a more viable option than for wood posts. Digger Specialties, Inc. also routes a 3’’ diameter cement hole 6’’ from the bottom of the post. This allows cement to hold the product in place during freezing and thawing temperatures or ground movement. We are the only company that does this as standard for our customers.
What size hole do you need to cement the posts?
We recommend a minimum depth of 36’’ of concrete. The post hole should be at least 38’’ deep to allow covering the concrete. Please consult your local codes for frost depth requirements. A minimum 9" diameter hole is required for 4" square posts, while 5" square posts require a minimum 12" diameter hole, as specified in ASTM F1999.00, Installation Practices for Rigid Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Fence.
What is the ASTM standard for polyvinyl fence?
The ASTM standard for vinyl fence is F964-02. This standard covers the very basic requirements of what it takes to produce a good vinyl fence. Digger Specialties, Inc. adheres to this ASTM standard. While any company can claim they meet ASTM, confident manufacturers are willing to have their compliance with ASTM standards tested by an independent laboratory, as we do. Click this link to review our quality assurance processes and external test results.
How does my PVC fence affect our environment?
Polyvinyl fence is environmentally friendly and does not pollute the air, water, or ground. It does not require the harvesting of our precious forests.
Does the product become brittle in winter?
As with most PVC products, polyvinyl will become less flexible in colder weather. However, polyvinyl products are designed to accommodate normal temperature swings. The impact inhibitors used to prevent breaking also help the products withstand cold weather conditions. Under normal fence and impact conditions, the fence will perform well. Vinyl fencing can break if subject to a direct impact (e.g. an automobile running into a fence line). Under normal use, the fence will not break when installed properly. Polyvinyl boards, pickets, and rails are easily replaced if damaged.
During the life of the product you should not expect to find cracking, peeling, chipping, or rotting.
How is polyvinyl fence railing and decking made?
Polyvinyl fence is made of essentially the same material as vinyl siding and vinyl windows, NOT PVC pipe. The difference being that PVC pipe does use some of the same ingredients but does not have the weatherability and strength found in siding, windows, and fence.
What is extrusion?
There are two common methods of vinyl fence manufacturing: mono-extrusion (single layer) and co-extrusion (two-layer). Some manufacturers maintain and advertise that mono-extrusion is better. Which is better for you? In mono-extrusion, the fence profile (in sizes such as 2" x 6", 5" x 5", etc.) is made out of one layer of material. This process puts ultraviolet inhibitors (which protect the vinyl from sunlight) all the way through the product, even on the inside, where they are not needed. The ultraviolet inhibitor is the most expensive ingredient in the extrusion formula. Since mono-extrusion uses only one extruder instead of two and the mono-extrusion die is simpler to make, the fixed-asset investment at the factory in mono-extrusion can be as much as $200,000 less per profile. Mono-extrusion also requires less technical expertise on the factory floor. In co-extrusion, the fence profile is made out of two layers: an outer layer containing the ultraviolet inhibitor and an inside layer with less ultraviolet inhibitor ingredient. Co-extrusion demands a higher investment in equipment, tooling, training, and overall manufacturing sophistication, but involves significantly lower material costs. For years, only a few manufacturers in the vinyl fence business were co-extruding. Today, almost all key manufacturers co-extrude. These are reputable companies that back their products with up to lifetime warranties and independent product testing to ASTM vinyl fence standards. Some mono-extruding manufacturers warn that since co-extrusion can result in a different color of substrate material, a scratch on a co-extruded fence will reveal the substrate color - much like a scratch on a car will reveal the undercoat color. However, quality co-extruders make the outside layer thick enough so that a scratch will not penetrate to the substrate layer. You cannot "key" your way through to the substrate the way you can with a car; the top layer is just too thick. The following chart illustrates the effect mono and co-extrusion have on the consumer and manufacturer. Not all manufacturers offer the same features and benefits (e.g. different warranties). The same warranty is and should be available for mono or co-extruded products; whether the product is mono or co-extruded does not affect the warranty that can be offered.
What is virgin vinyl?
This is the term used for a vinyl product that does not contain recycled products. Recycled products that may be imported into an extrusion plant may contain impurities or lower grade vinyl. This can seriously affect the finished product's resilience, impact resistance, and UV inhibition. Digger Specialties, Inc. products are extruded using only virgin materials.
What variety of colors does your fence come in?
All of our vinyl fence products for property owners carry a Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty. Our warranty for commercial customers (non-living entities) is good for 30 years
Is the warranty important?
It is very important to look for a strong warranty and independent testing of the manufacturers product. Different polyvinyl product manufacturers provide a wide range of warranties. Some last only 20 years, while we back all of our polyvinyl products with a Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Why does warranty matter when you choose a polyvinyl fence or railing?
Manufacturers must use the right ingredients in the correct proportions, mixed and cooked at the proper temperature, to produce good polyvinyl. If this process is not followed correctly, the polyvinyl might have poor weathering. This could cause it to turn yellow, lack strength, or crack in harsh weather. Good polyvinyl fence manufacturers use ingredients and processing controls that ensure compliance to ASTM standards. Even in the best factory, things can sometimes go wrong. This is where quality control, quality and longevity of the manufacturer, and warranty come in. Good polyvinyl fence manufacturers recognize that you probably don't have the time or inclination to check and see if their product is manufactured to standards when you are buying it. These manufacturers assure customer satisfaction by issuing a strong, straightforward warranty. Digger Specialties, Inc. also adds another level of quality assurance by having our product independently tested by an outside professional testing agency.
How long will polyvinyl fencing last?
Polyvinyl fences are designed to last a lifetime.
Will polyvinyl fencing yellow over time?
Our vinyl fence and railing use a high content (10 parts per 100 parts) of TiO2 (titanium dioxide) and ultraviolet inhibitors, which have been proven to prevent yellowing. As a result, we can back our products with a Lifetime Limited Warranty against yellowing.
Can a vinyl fence break?
Any fence will break when enough force is applied. However, Digger Specialties, Inc. polyvinyl (PVC) profiles are formulated using only the highest quality impact modifiers in precisely engineered amounts to ensure the greatest impact resistance available. Our polyvinyl (PVC) profiles are engineered to withstand higher impacts than the minimum required by ASTM.
Does polyvinyl fence chalk as it weathers?
All vinyl fencing weathers and has some material fade and slight chalking sooner or later. With the superior protection capabilities of our TiO2, this will be kept to a bare minimum. Digger Specialties, Inc. vinyl is formulated for exceptional beauty over a full lifetime. By using durable grade non-chalking TiO2 in our vinyl formulation, we ensure there will be very minimal chalking of our fence products.
How does it stand up in the wind?
Polyvinyl fences are designed to withstand normal wind load. The amount of load is dependent on the installation of the posts and horizontal rails. Regional weather patterns may dictate specialized installation procedures. Experienced installers in high-wind areas usually order extra-long posts and sink them deeper into the ground. Our taller privacy fencing uses aluminum post stiffeners to add additional strength to withstand greater wind loads.
What is polyvinyl? What is PVC?
Crude oil, natural gas, and chloride are the raw materials used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. Vinyl compound is formulated from raw materials that include PVC resin, UV inhibitors (TiO2), impact modifiers, stabilizers, and toners. PVC is probably best known as the plumbing pipe at the hardware store. The plumbing in your house is probably PVC pipe, unless it's an older home. There's more to PVC than just pipe. Vinyl siding and vinyl windows used on homes are made of polyvinyl chloride, as are Digger Specialties, Inc. vinyl products. Inside the home, PVC is used to make linoleum for the floor. PVC is useful because it resists two things that hate each other: fire and water. Because of its water resistance, it is used to make raincoats, shower curtains, and of course, water pipes. It also has flame resistance because it contains chlorine, which inhibits combustion. For more information on PVC and related plastics, click here to visit the University of Southern Mississippi Department of Polymer Science.
Does it expand?
Polyvinyl materials do expand and contract during temperature changes. Digger Specialties, Inc. designs their products for normal expansion and contraction.
How mature is the vinyl fence industry?
Using vinyl for fence has been commercially active since the early 1980's. We have been producing high quality polyvinyl fence, railing, and decking since 1984. Vinyl was invented in the 1940’s; vinyl for siding began in the 1950's. In the 1980's, vinyl became the most often used material in windows. We believe that polyvinyl fence, railing, and decking is the next great use for vinyl and we expect polyvinyl to take a significant share of the wood fence, railing, and decking markets during the next 10 years. Invest in your fence once - buy PolyVinyl Fence, Railing, and Decking by Digger Specialties, Inc.
Can I paint my vinyl fence?
Polyvinyl products are engineered to retain their beauty and good looks throughout their lifetime. The only reason to use paints on our PolyVinyl products would be to change the color of the product. We do not recommend painting polyvinyl. There are paints that are available to paint vinyl but painting or otherwise treating Digger Specialties, Inc. PolyVinyl products voids the Transferable Lifetime Limited Warranty.
How should I clean the fence?
As with all exterior products, our fence will become dirty when exposed to the elements. A mild detergent and water should be sufficient to keep your fence, deck, or railing looking new. For tough stains, Simple Green, Soft Scrub, or Baking Soda work well to clean stubborn stains.
Can polyvinyl fence sections be added long after a job is completed?
Yes. Over time, vinyl products will go through a natural weathering process and may not match perfectly to the original products. As in vinyl siding, colors fade and may not match properly when added on years later.
Can I get custom styles made? What limits are there on fence design?
Yes. Virtually most styles that can be made out of wood or ornamental iron can be made out of polyvinyl. We have over 20 basic styles of fence. However, we design and build many special fence requests, as long as the style has structural integrity.
How high can I make the fence?
This depends upon the style of fence. This question is better left to your local dealer. It is; however, recommended that any fence over 6' tall have the posts reinforced. Always check your local building code guidelines on fence height before installation.
Can you add gates?
Yes. Gates are made to match your polyvinyl fencing. Our gate frames are also aluminum reinforced to provide a longer lasting, strong, and beautiful gate.
Can you use polyvinyl in porch or guard railing?
Yes. When properly installed, our PolyRail® and PolyDeck® products make a very stable deck and porch rail system designed for use at ground level and on balconies. Our support posts are reinforced with aluminum or wood to be load bearing.
How is polyvinyl fence put together?
Most polyvinyl fence assembly is done by snapping the rails into the posts, using rails that are tabbed with a special tabbing or notching tool. Depending upon the styles of fence, different fasteners can be used. Polyvinyl channels, which are used in the fabrication of Privacy and Semi-Privacy styles, are attached to the posts using stainless steel screws.
Should the posts be cemented in the ground?
We recommend you treat polyvinyl posts the same as you would treat wood posts. If it is common and normal to cement fence posts in your area, then you should cement the vinyl posts. However, for maximum stability, we recommend posts be cemented in. Please note: while cement can reduce the life expectancy of wood, it has no negative effect on polyvinyl. This makes cementing polyvinyl posts in the ground a more viable option than for wood posts. Digger Specialties, Inc. also routes a 3’’ diameter cement hole 6’’ from the bottom of the post. This allows cement to hold the product in place during freezing and thawing temperatures or ground movement. We are the only company that does this as standard for our customers.
What size hole do you need to cement the posts?
We recommend a minimum depth of 36’’ of concrete. The post hole should be at least 38’’ deep to allow covering the concrete. Please consult your local codes for frost depth requirements. A minimum 9" diameter hole is required for 4" square posts, while 5" square posts require a minimum 12" diameter hole, as specified in ASTM F1999.00, Installation Practices for Rigid Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Fence.
What is the ASTM standard for polyvinyl fence?
The ASTM standard for vinyl fence is F964-02. This standard covers the very basic requirements of what it takes to produce a good vinyl fence. Digger Specialties, Inc. adheres to this ASTM standard. While any company can claim they meet ASTM, confident manufacturers are willing to have their compliance with ASTM standards tested by an independent laboratory, as we do. Click this link to review our quality assurance processes and external test results.
How does my PVC fence affect our environment?
Polyvinyl fence is environmentally friendly and does not pollute the air, water, or ground. It does not require the harvesting of our precious forests.
Does the product become brittle in winter?
As with most PVC products, polyvinyl will become less flexible in colder weather. However, polyvinyl products are designed to accommodate normal temperature swings. The impact inhibitors used to prevent breaking also help the products withstand cold weather conditions. Under normal fence and impact conditions, the fence will perform well. Vinyl fencing can break if subject to a direct impact (e.g. an automobile running into a fence line). Under normal use, the fence will not break when installed properly. Polyvinyl boards, pickets, and rails are easily replaced if damaged.