How to Design a Traditional Vinyl Picket Fence

Visit the local building department to find out the code requirements for fences. The code often specifies where you are able to put the fence and how high it can be.

Mark the area where you want the fence to run with wooden stakes at each corner. Measure the fence line based on your marks to get an idea of how much of the vinyl fencing you'll need.

Decide how tall you want the fence. Consider visibility of your home and the view from your home and how a fence will change those elements. Your purpose for the fence may also play a role. For example, if you have a dog you're keeping in with the fence, you'll likely want a taller fence that the dog isn't able to jump over.

Plan for gates in the fencing. The gate typically falls at the front where the sidewalk running up to the house meets the fence. If you're also using the vinyl picket fence around the backyard, consider the most convenient location for the gate to provide easy access in and out of the yard.

Compare the shapes of the different vinyl picket fencing sections. Vinyl picket fencing often comes with different profiles along the top, include a curved edge with boards of graduated heights, scalloped tops or a straight top. Compare differences in the style of the individual boards as well.

Choose the vinyl post style you prefer. The caps for the posts give you another option for personalizing the fence with decorative accents.

Compare the color options available in the vinyl fencing. Since you won't repaint the vinyl like you would a wood fence, choose a classic color that won't go out of style. White is the traditional choice, but most vinyl fencing has other color options available.