How to DIY Repair your Vinyl Fence in Twin Falls, ID


Certified Fencing is passionate about providing a variety of fencing services including installation of a variety of fencing materials. In the residential fencing sector, two of the most popular kinds of fencing are cedar wood and vinyl. Today, we’ll be discussing vinyl fence repairs; vinyl fencing comes with a number of advantages. It’s manufactured in a wide variety of styles and colors, and is easy to clean and maintain. Although vinyl fencing is super resistant to wear and tear from sprinklers, weather, and direct sunlight, over time, it becomes increasingly more susceptible to small holes and cracks. If you’re the kind of person who’s excited about a do-it-yourself project, this article is for you! Here’s what you need to know: 

  1. Gather tools and materials

    1. Sandpaper--we recommend both a rougher grain and a finer grain, such as a 200-grit and 400-grit sandpaper. The rougher grit will get you closer to the finish, and the fine grain will help you create a seamless finish.

    2. Water with a gentle cleanser--any kind of dish soap works fine

    3. A soft rag that can get dirty

    4. Some kind of knife, such as a utility kitchen knife or a fine tooth saw

    5. Isopropyl alcohol

    6. Paint to match your fence

    7. If the hole is llarger than one inch: expandable spray foam

    8. Optional: plastic filler and a putty knife

  2. Clean the repair area. As with any DIY project, make sure that the area you’ll be working with is as clean as possible. Use your soft rag and soapy water to make sure there’s no dust, dirt, or debris that may interfere with a perfect finish. Cleaning the area sets you up for success. Rinse the area thoroughly, and dry completely before proceeding. 

  3. Sand the area. More often than not, a damaged section of vinyl fencing had some rough edges and burrs that can affect the finished appearance. Use your coarser grit sandpaper to smooth out those edges and sand around the hole or crack, then wipe again with your damp rag. Once again, allow to dry completely before proceeding.
    In the event that your hole is larger, use a knife to cut away any splinters and sharp plastic. Cutting at a bevel angle--angled inward towards the hole--can help create an even smoother transition after you fill the hole. Cut first, then sand, making sure to wipe and dry before proceeding.

  4. For larger holes: Fill with expandable foam spray. This step is not necessary for smaller holes, although you are welcome to it if you choose to! Expandable foam cans will come with a long, straw-like nozzle. Use this to begin at the very back of the hole and slowly fill it up, letting the foam expand past the hole and against the surface of the vinyl fencing. Exercise caution so as not to overfill the interior space; too much expandable form can put pressure on the fence and result in a noticeable bulge. This will need to dry overnight; follow instructions on your can. 

  5. Cut back foam. Once the foam is completely dry, use a knife to shave the foam back to be as flush with the fence as possible. It doesn’t need to be perfect just yet, but getting as close to flush as you can will save you time with sanding later. 

  6. Sand the area: part two. Using your coarse grain sandpaper again, smooth the protruding foam. If you choose to use plastic filler, sand the immediate area until it’s slightly concave. Again, wipe away any dust from this sanding, and allow to dry completely. 

  7. Optional: apply plastic filler. If you choose to use plastic filler--which can produce a smoother finish, and is something we recommend--apply the filler and smooth it over with your putty knife. This allows for a seamless finish; allow to dry overnight or as recommended by the manufacturer. 

  8. Sand the area: part three. This time, use the finer grit sandpaper, and carefully smooth your dried plastic filler. Feather the edges; this will be the final step that influences the shape of the fence, so exercise caution. 

  9. Paint. Whether you choose to roll, brush, or spray, paint the repair to match the rest of the fence, and your repair is complete! ‘


Whether you choose to DIY your vinyl fence repair, or want to call in expert fence repair services, Certified Fencing is eager to help! We serve Twin Falls, Boise, Middleton, Fruitland, Kuna, Nampa, Meridian, Star, Eagle, Caldwell, ID, and all surrounding areas with all fencing needs. Give us a call at (208) 449-2040 for more information or to schedule a consultation today! 


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