How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Vinyl Fence?

Homeowners nationwide pay an average of $646 to repair a vinyl fence, and project costs between $284 and $1,054. Common replacement parts like pickets or slats cost about $5 each, while posts run between $3 and $12.

Vinyl is one of the most common fencing materials and usually costs less to install than wood or metal fences. It’s also easy to maintain and inexpensive to repair. Vinyl fences can be an attractive addition to a yard or landscaping project, offering a high degree of privacy compared to chain-link or split-rail fences since the include minimal or no slats. When installed by a professional and maintained regularly, they can last up to 30 years.

Vinyl Fence Repair Material Prices

From minor fence repairs like holes to large ones like replacing fence posts and panels, materials range from $20 to $800.

Repair Kits and Other Materials

Repair kits cost about $40. Kits include everything a homeowner needs to patch minor holes, such as a composite compound, sandpaper, spatula, patch, and gloves.

If you need to patch several holes or have basic supplies like sandpaper, it may be more cost-effective to forgo the kit and buy supplies separately:

• Plastic body filler: $20–$30

• Coping saw: $5–$10

• Expanding foam: $3–$5

• Sandpaper: $10–$20

• Spray paint for plastic: $12–$25

Replacement Parts

In some cases, replacing a part of your fence is less expensive than repairing it since pieces come pre-assembled and designed to fit together with minimal effort. Some fencing parts come with their own installation kits.

Panels: They range from $70 to $170, not including installation. Professionals may be able to get replacement panels for a lower wholesale price, and installation may take a few hours or an afternoon at most.

Post supports: Metal post supports range from $3 to $12, depending on the size and strength. Vinyl sleeves typically slip over them.

Pickets or slats: Pickets average about $5 each. Some fences consist of tongue and groove pickets or slats instead of panels, allowing you to replace only the damaged ones instead of the entire panel.

Top and bottom rails: They run approximately $20 per 8-foot section. Decorative rail toppers range from $50 to $100 for a 2- to 6-foot section, depending on the design. Replacement rail clips cost $5 to $7 each.

Gate Parts

Replacing a gate part usually runs between $20 to $80, depending on which part breaks and whether you have a single or double unit.

• Heavy-duty drop rod: $20

• Hinges: $25 or $50 for a set

• Latch: $20

• Single-gate hardware kit (hinges and latch): $40

• Double-gate hardware kit (hinges, latch, and drop rod): $80

Lattice and Decorative Panels

A 4-by-8-foot sheet of lattice runs between $20 to $40, while a 4-by-8-foot decorative vinyl fence panel costs $100 to $300. More elaborate panels are the most expensive to replace.

High-end products, including those with latticework or other decorative features, accommodate many outdoor styles and accentuate landscaping. If installed by a contractor, expect to see these elements reflected in the estimate and final price of the project.

Vinyl Fence Repair Labor Costs

A handyperson charges $15 to $25 per hour, while a fence repair professional charges $25 to $50 per hour. Labor rates depend on who you get to do the job, where you live, and the extent of the repair. Most vinyl fence installers near you complete the job within a couple of hours, but extensive fixes that include many fence sections or panels may need a half or full day.

Fixing Gates, Posts, or Sleeves

Gate repairs can range from $100 to $1,980. Exact labor and material costs will depend on the type and extent of the damage. Most gate problems are due to improper installation and need professional expertise.

• Frame: This supports the gate, keeps it square, and needs to be the right size and material. A missing or inadequate structure can cause a variety of problems.

• Bracing: When it’s missing or inadequate, it causes a sagging or leaning fence or gate. A pro will install heavy-gauge vinyl braces diagonally across the gate.

• Post foundation: Posts require a concrete foundation of at least 3 feet. A contractor will remove the leaning post, clean out the hole, pour concrete, and reset it.

• Post reinforcement: A pro will use aluminum beams instead of wooden 4-by-4s to ensure proper support.

• Loose post: These will need to be reset and may require a new concrete foundation.

• Hinges: Vinyl gates need heavy-gauge stainless steel hinges, so the hardware doesn’t become loose over time.

• Sleeves: They’re the outer cover of the post. You or a pro can fix surface scratches or holes with a patch or repair kit.

In general, cosmetic issues cost less to repair than structural issues. Repairing surface scratches on the sleeves is less expensive than replacing hinges and hardware, which is less expensive than repairing the fence's structure. Often, reinforcement and foundation issues are the most costly issues to repair. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

You can rent an electric or gas pressure washer from $40 to $100 per day or buy one for $90 to $800. Hiring a pro for power-washing typically costs $180 to $400. A seasonal or annual cleaning with a power washer can keep vinyl fences looking new for many years. Use the proper setting and technique to clean effectively without causing damage.

A pro charges per linear foot for large-scale jobs, including scraping, which will be necessary if the fence isn't well-maintained. Get more than one estimate for this service because pricing can vary.

Also, vinyl doesn’t need periodic fence painting or staining like wood and doesn't rust like metal. But apply a rust preventative to exposed or unpainted hardware.

Vinyl Fence Repair Costs Near You

Cost to Repair a Vinyl Fence Yourself

By fixing the vinyl fence yourself, you can save anywhere from $50 to $1,180, depending on the extent of the repair. The savings are in labor costs and depend on the tools you already own, such as sandpaper or a coping saw. More extensive projects may require a circular saw and a posthole digger.

DIY vs. Hiring a Fence Repair Pro

A fencing repair professional should complete most repairs other than fixing small holes or replacing hardware. Pro installation will maintain your fence's structural integrity and appearance, an advantage that'll save you money over time.

DIY repair differs from professional repair. Simple fixes won't last as long as professional work and are only appropriate when a professional fix is time- or cost-prohibitive. Without experience, there's also some risk of injury when using tools and working with fence pieces. Hire a local vinyl fence repair professional to eliminate risk and ensure the job is done right.