Installing a vinyl privacy fence panel is a straightforward project when you position your posts correctly and have the right materials on hand. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing a 6-foot-high by 8-foot-wide YUKON NORTHERNLINE® full privacy fence panel.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather the following:
- Drill
- Circular saw, or miter saw
- Angle grinder with a metal-cutting blade
- 3/4-inch screws
- PVC vinyl glue
- Vinyl fence posts
- Bottom and top rails
- U-channels
- Tongue-and-groove fence boards
- Post caps
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
Before installing the panel, make sure you have installed and properly aligned the fence posts.
Step 1: Choose Your Rails and Fence Posts
NORTHERNLINE® fence components are available in two options.
Our standard YUKON rails measure 1½ inches by 7 inches. For additional strength, you can upgrade to our KODIAK rails, which measure a true 2 inches by 7 inches.
You can also choose between two fence post thicknesses:
- YUKON fence posts have a wall thickness of 0.140 inches.
- KODIAK fence posts have a wall thickness of 0.175 inches.
For this installation, we are using the YUKON privacy fence system.
Step 2: Measure the Distance Between the Posts
Measure the clear distance between the two installed fence posts.
Add 3 inches to this measurement when determining the required rail length. The additional length allows each end of the rail to extend 1½ inches into its corresponding fence post.
For example, if the opening between the posts measures 57 inches, your rails should be cut to 60 inches.
Step 3: Install the Bottom Rail
Insert the bottom rail into the routed holes near the bottom of the fence posts.
Once the rail is correctly positioned, use a pencil to trace a line on the rail where it meets each post. This line identifies the edge of the post and helps you determine the correct screw location.
Install a 3/4-inch screw approximately 1/4 inch past the pencil line. Repeat this on the opposite side. Then, squeeze the rail slightly and push the rail into the post so that the screw sits inside.
The screws lock the rail into the posts and create a secure, snug fit.
Step 4: Install the U-Channels
Next, install a U-channel vertically against each fence post.
Use three screws to secure each channel:
- Install one screw near the top.
- Install one screw near the bottom.
- Confirm that the U-channel is straight and properly aligned with the rails.
- Install the third screw in the middle.
Check the alignment carefully before installing the center screw, as the U-channels help keep the fence boards straight and securely positioned.
Step 5: Install the Fence Boards
Begin placing the tongue-and-groove fence boards into the bottom rail.
Fit each board tightly against the previous one, making sure the tongue-and-groove profiles are fully connected. Continue installing boards across the panel until you reach the remaining space near the opposite post.
Step 6: Cut the Final Fence Board to Width
Fence panels rarely finish with a full-width board. In most cases, the final board will need to be ripped down to fit the remaining gap.
Measure the available space and mark the required width on the final board.
Use an angle grinder fitted with a metal-cutting blade to make the cut. This cutting method helps prevent the vinyl board from chipping or cracking.
After cutting the board, line up its tongue-and-groove profile with the previously installed board. Slide the final board down from the top until it is fully seated in the bottom rail.
Step 7: Install the Top Rail
Once all the fence boards are securely in place, install the top rail.
Position the rail over the boards and insert both ends into the routed openings in the fence posts. Make sure the boards are properly seated inside the rail and that the rail fits snugly between the posts.
Lock the top rail into position by installing one screw through the top of the rail on each side.
Step 8: Install the Post Caps
Apply PVC vinyl glue to the inside of each post cap.
Place the caps onto the tops of the fence posts and press them firmly into position. Wipe away any excess glue before it dries.
Watch the Installation Video
Watch Harley and Alex demonstrate each step in our video, How to Install a Vinyl Fence Panel.