ASTM F1999-14(2019)

Standard Practice for Installation of Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Fence Systems

ABSTRACT
This practice covers the minimum requirement for and methods of installation for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) fencing systems and fence accessories, it is intended to guide those responsible for or concerned with installation of rigid (PVC) fence systems. The procedure for installation of posts, installation of rails and section, installation of post caps and picket tops, and installation of gates on posts are presented in details.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the minimum requirement for and methods of installation for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) fencing systems and fence accessories in areas where the maximum frost penetration does not exceed 30 in. [76 cm]. In all cases, refer also to the specific manufacturer's instructions for installation.  
1.2 This practice is intended to guide those responsible for or concerned with installation of rigid (PVC) fence systems.  
1.3 This practice does not preclude any test method that is proven to give equal or better performance under any weather, soil, or frost conditions.  
1.4 End-use and applicable code requirements shall be considered in the choice of fence style, spacing, height, and installation method.  
1.4.1 Paddock fencing for livestock may need to be more durable than perimeter fence.  
1.4.2 Residential fence styles may not be designed for balcony or guardrail use.  
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in brackets are for information only.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Sep-2019
• ICS: 91.090 - External structures
• Technical Committee: F14 - Fences
• Drafting Committee: F14.30 - Rigid Polymer Fence Systems

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F1999-14 - Standard Practice for Installation of Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Fence Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2564-20 - Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2020
• Refers: ASTM F964-13(2019) - Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2564-12(2018) - Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2018
• Refers: ASTM F964-13 - Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM D2564-12 - Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2012
• Refers: ASTM D2564-04(2009)e1 - Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2009
• Refers: ASTM A706/A706M-09a - Standard Specification for Low-Alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2009
• Refers: ASTM F964-09 - Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Refers: ASTM A706/A706M-09 - Standard Specification for Low-Alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
• Effective Date: 01-May-2009
• Refers: ASTM F964-08 - Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2008
• Refers: ASTM A706/A706M-06 - Standard Specification for Low-Alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2006
• Refers: ASTM A706/A706M-05a - Standard Specification for Low-Alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2005
• Refers: ASTM A706/A706M-05 - Standard Specification for Low-Alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2005
• Refers: ASTM D2564-04e1 - Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2004

Overview

ASTM F1999-14(2019) - Standard Practice for Installation of Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Fence Systems establishes minimum requirements and recommended methods for installing rigid PVC fencing systems and related accessories. Developed by ASTM Committee F14 on Fences, this international standard offers practical guidance for professionals involved in the selection, site preparation, and installation of PVC fence systems in areas where maximum frost penetration does not exceed 30 inches (76 cm). Users are also advised to consult specific manufacturer instructions for detailed procedures.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application: The standard applies to the installation of rigid PVC fence systems, including posts, rails, sections, post caps, picket tops, and gates. It specifically addresses installation practices in regions with frost penetration up to 30 inches.
• Material Requirements: Specifies the use of rigid PVC exterior profiles as per ASTM F964, compatible solvent cements (ASTM D2564), and reinforcing steel where necessary (ASTM A706).
• Site Preparation: Guidance is provided for marking fence lines, identifying underground utilities, and ensuring adequate site clearing and grading before installation begins.
• Post Installation Methods: The standard covers multiple techniques for setting posts, including installation with concrete, crushed stone, or a combination of both. Depths and diameters for post holes are tailored to local conditions and intended fence use.
• Rail and Section Installation: Requirements for rail insertion into routed posts, spacing, and provisions for thermal expansion and contraction are included to ensure durability and structural integrity.
• Accessory Installation: Details procedures for attaching and securing post caps, picket caps, and gate assemblies using noncorrosive fasteners or manufacturer-recommended adhesives.
• Safety and Code Compliance: The document highlights the importance of considering end-use scenarios (such as livestock fencing versus residential fencing) and adhering to applicable local building codes and safety practices throughout the installation process.

Applications

ASTM F1999-14(2019) is vital for professionals responsible for the installation of rigid PVC fence systems in residential, agricultural, and light commercial settings. Typical applications include:

• Home Perimeter Fencing: Provides homeowners and contractors with standardized procedures to ensure longevity and visual appeal of residential fences.
• Agricultural and Livestock Enclosures: Offers specific guidance for more durable paddock fencing required in livestock applications.
• Decorative and Functional Barriers: Suitable for garden borders, pool enclosures, or general property demarcation, this standard optimizes fence stability and aesthetic quality.
• Gate Installation: Ensures gates are installed for proper operation, security, and alignment with fencing systems.

By following ASTM F1999-14(2019), installers and stakeholders achieve consistent, safe, and code-compliant results when working with rigid PVC fencing products.

Related Standards

• ASTM F964: Specification for Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing - governs material quality for fence profiles.
• ASTM D2564: Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems - provides requirements for adhesives used during installation.
• ASTM A706/A706M: Specification for Deformed and Plain Low-Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement - covers reinforcing materials that may be integrated into fence posts for additional support.

Consult these related standards in conjunction with ASTM F1999-14(2019) to ensure best practices in PVC fence installation and compliance with recognized industry requirements.

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Keywords: ASTM F1999, rigid PVC fence, fence installation, PVC fencing, polyvinyl chloride fence, fence standards, post installation, fence accessories, ASTM standards, construction practices

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F1999 −14 (Reapproved 2019)
Standard Practice for
Installation of Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Fence
Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1999; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This practice covers the minimum requirement for and
A706/A706M Specification for Deformed and Plain Low-
methods of installation for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)
Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
fencing systems and fence accessories in areas where the
D2564 Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl
maximum frost penetration does not exceed 30 in. [76 cm]. In
Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems
all cases, refer also to the specific manufacturer’s instructions
F964 Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC)
for installation.
Exterior Profiles Used for Fencing and Railing
1.2 This practice is intended to guide those responsible for
or concerned with installation of rigid (PVC) fence systems.
3. Terminology
1.3 This practice does not preclude any test method that is
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
proven to give equal or better performance under any weather,
3.1.1 clip—a component used to lock rails into routed posts.
soil, or frost conditions.
3.1.2 corner post—a post that accepts fence rails so that a
1.4 End-use and applicable code requirements shall be
fence ends in one direction and starts in another, more or less,
considered in the choice of fence style, spacing, height, and
perpendicular direction.
installation method.
3.1.3 end cap—a component to cover the open end of a rail
1.4.1 Paddock fencing for livestock may need to be more
or other extrusion.
durable than perimeter fence.
3.1.4 end post—the end or last vertical structural support
1.4.2 Residential fence styles may not be designed for
member of the fence.
balcony or guardrail use.
3.1.5 exterior profile—a rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
extrusion that conforms to Specification F964.
as standard. The values given in brackets are for information
3.1.6 gate—a hinged panel for passage into or out of a
only.
fenced area.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1.7 hinge post—the post to which a gate is attached.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.1.8 notch—a method of creating a tab used to lock rails
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
into routed posts.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1.9 outside brackets—components used to fasten rails to
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
the outside of posts, when routed posts are not used.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.10 picket—a vertical member in a fence panel, between
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
or attached to the horizontal members.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.1.11 picket cap—a component used to cover or decorate
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
the open end(s) of picket.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1.12 post cap—a component used to cover the top of a
post.
This practice is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee F14 on Fences and
is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F14.30 on Rigid Polymer Fence
Systems. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2019. Published October 2019. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2000. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as F1999 – 14. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F1999-14R19. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1999 − 14 (2019)
3.1.13 posts—the vertical structural support members of the [609 mm] plus an additional 3 in. [76 mm] for each 1-ft
fence. [305-mm] increased fence height over 4 ft [1.22 m].
7.1.2 In areas where frost is common, the footing shall
3.1.14 rails—the horizontal members which insert into or
extend a minimum of 6 in. [152.4 mm] below the maximum
attach to the posts. They serve as the sole sections between
frost level.
posts or as back rails to which picket verticals are attached.
7.2 Preparation of Post—To secure post vertically, provide
3.1.15 routed posts—posts with holes cut into them to allow
a means such as, but not limited to, notching, drilling,
rails to be inserted.
roughing, pinning, etc.
4. Materials
7.3 Installation of Posts—This practice includes post setting
4.1 Exterior Profiles, in accordance with Specification
methods. Careful consideration should be taken to choose the
F964.
correct method based on soil types at the installation location.
7.3.1 Method 1—Partially fill holes with concrete, then set
4.2 Solvent Cement— Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) solvent
the post into the concrete leaving approximately 2 to 4 in. [51
cement in accordance with Specification D2564.
to 101 mm] of concrete below the bottom of the post (see Fig.
4.3 Reinforcing Steel Rods,inaccordancewithSpecification
1). Continue filling the hole with concrete to within 6 to 9 in.
A706/A706M low-alloy steel deformed bars for concrete
[152.4 to 228.6 mm] of the top. Fill the remainder of the hole
reinforcement.
with soil or fine rocks. Where frost is not likely, the hole may
be filled to ground level with concrete (see Note 1). The post
5. Protection of Material in Transportation and Storage
shall extend a minimum of 18 in. [457.2 mm] into the concrete
5.1 Exterior profiles shall be supported in a manner that will
(see Fig. 2). Check to see that the post remains plumb until the
prevent sagging, twisting, or bending. Fence products shall be
concrete has set.
stored in a manner that prevents accumulation
...