How to Install a Vinyl Picket Fence on a Slope

Mark the location of the vinyl picket fence with a piece of string tied between two stakes in the ground. Measure and mark the location for each of the fence posts based on the length of the vinyl fence sections you chose for the project. If necessary, adjust the length of the fence row so you don’t have to use an odd-sized section.

Dig the post holes for the fence below the frost line with a power auger, using the string line as your guide. Drop 2 to 3 inches of crushed gravel into the bottom of each hole.

Mix quick-set concrete according to package directions. Place the post in the hole on top of the gravel. Add enough concrete to steady the post in the hole. Hold a carpenter’s level against the side of the post to ensure the post is straight up and down, or plumb. Finish filling the hole with concrete. Mound the concrete at ground level so water flows away from the post.

Finish setting all the fence posts in the same manner as Step 3. Take careful measurements as you work, so the spacing between posts is exactly the same. Allow the concrete to set overnight before proceeding.

Hold a picket fence section between the first two posts so it is horizontal. Use the carpenter’s level to check that the section is level. Mark the location where the horizontal members of the section touch the posts.

Drill pilot holes for the bottom set of U-shaped panel holders on the posts. Attach the holders with screws from the assembly kit. Slip the vinyl fence panel into the panel holders. Attach screws to the panel to hold it to the bottom set of holders.

Turn the top set of panel holders so the U is upside down. Drill pilot holes for the holders' location. Slide the panel holders over the top of the panel and attach the holders to the fence post. Attach the holder to the top horizontal bars of the picket fence panel to complete that section.

Move to the next section. If it is on sloped ground, hold it so the top horizontal bar is level according to the carpenter’s level. Don’t worry about keeping it evenly spaced with the ground. There may be more gap between the panel and the ground at one end. Hang the panel like you did in Steps 6 and 7.

Continue hanging all vinyl fence panels in the fence row.

Cut the tops of the fence posts off with a circular saw as necessary, so each post has the same amount showing above the top horizontal bar. Wipe PVC glue around the tops of each of the fence posts. Set a fence cap in place on top of each of the posts.