Vinyl Fencing Installation Mistakes to Avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA

Installing a vinyl fence in Arroyo Grande sounds like a straightforward weekend project—dig a few holes, set some posts, snap in the panels, and you’re done, right? Not quite. While vinyl fencing is known for its durability, low maintenance, and clean aesthetic, it’s not immune to installation pitfalls. The Central Coast’s climate, local soil conditions, municipal codes, and coastal winds all present unique challenges that can turn an easy DIY job into a costly redo if you’re not careful.

This in-depth guide uncovers the most common vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA, and how to do it right the first time. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a DIY installation or you’re vetting a Fence Contractor in Arroyo Grande, CA, you’ll find step-by-step guidance, pro tips, and answers to the questions most people are afraid to ask. And yes—we’ll also cover how vinyl compares to Chain Link Fencing, Wood Fencing, Ornamental Fencing, and Agricultural Fencing so you can make the best decision for your property and budget.

If you’re looking to protect your view, your pets, your privacy, or your peace of mind, this article will help ensure your vinyl fence stands straight, looks good, and lasts decades.

When people search for “Fence Contractor Arroyo Grande, CA,” “Fence Compny Arroyo Grande, CA,” or “Fence Builder Arroyo Grande, CA,” they’re often looking for a trusted specialist who can guide them to the right material and style for their property—and install it correctly. In Arroyo Grande, that might mean weighing the low-maintenance appeal of Vinyl Fencing against the budget-friendliness of Chain Link Fencing, the classic charm of Wood Fencing, the upscale look of Ornamental Fencing, or the practical reliability of Agricultural Fencing for rural and ranch properties.

Here’s a quick decision snapshot:

Vinyl Fencing: Best for low maintenance, privacy, modern look, and coastal resilience. Chain Link Fencing: Best for security on a budget, pet enclosures, and minimal maintenance. Wood Fencing: Best for a warm, natural look; requires more upkeep in coastal environments. Ornamental Fencing: Best for curb appeal and property value; can be aluminum or steel. Agricultural Fencing: Best for large parcels, livestock containment, and boundary marking.

Vinyl’s big appeal—especially in Arroyo Grande—is its resistance to pests, moisture, and salt air corrosion. But that only holds true with proper planning and installation. That’s why understanding the top vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA is critical, whether you DIY or hire a pro.

Vinyl Fencing Installation Mistakes to Avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA

This section is the heart of the matter: the mistakes that cost homeowners time, money, and sanity. The Central Coast has its quirks—expansive soils in some pockets, coastal winds funneling through the valleys, foggy mornings followed by sunny afternoons. Each factor can play havoc with a poorly planned vinyl fence.

Common vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA include:

Ignoring local codes and HOA rules. Underestimating wind loads and post depth. Skimping on concrete footing size and cure times. Misaligning posts on slopes. Choosing low-grade vinyl without UV inhibitors. Over-tightening or misplacing brackets and rails. Setting posts without gravel or drainage considerations. Forgetting expansion gaps for thermal movement. Cutting panels incorrectly for slopes or corners. Not marking utilities before digging.

Each of these errors is fixable—if you know what to watch for. Let’s break them down with specific guidance for Arroyo Grande’s conditions.

Permits, Property Lines, and Local Rules: Start Smart

Skipping permits and plotting property lines by guesswork is one of the most expensive missteps. After all, moving a finished fence even a few inches after a neighbor challenge or city notice? That’s a stomach-drop moment.

Permits: Check with the City of Arroyo Grande Community Development Department. Many backyard fences under a certain height may be exempt, but privacy fences and corner-lot projects can trigger visibility and height constraints. HOAs and CC&Rs: If you live in a managed community, design, height, and color rules may apply. Property lines: Hire a surveyor if there’s any ambiguity. A $400 survey beats a $4,000 relocation. Easements: Drainage or utility easements cannot be obstructed; failure to respect them can mean forced removal.

Quick tip: Document everything. Keep printed approvals, plan drawings, and neighbor acknowledgments in a project folder. If questions arise, you’ll have the receipts.

Soil, Wind, and Terrain: The Central Coast Effect

Arroyo Grande’s microclimates and varied topography make site assessment essential. What’s common?

Soils: Sandy loam in some areas drains fast; clay pockets hold water. Each soil type demands different footing approaches. Wind: Afternoon onshore winds can be brisk, especially in open lots and ridgeline properties. Solid privacy vinyl panels act like sails. Corridors: Natural wind channels run along valleys and between hills, increasing lateral force on fence posts.

Avoid these mistakes:

Shallow post footings: For 6-foot vinyl privacy fences, plan 24–36 inches deep depending on wind exposure. For 7–8 feet, go deeper and consider larger-diameter footings. No drainage base: In clay-heavy areas, add a 3–6 inch gravel base to discourage heave and water pooling. No wind accommodations: Use heavier posts, deeper footings, and ensure panels have correct attachment hardware and expansion.

Pro move: Stage your posts and panels on a windy afternoon before final setting. You’ll feel the pressure and make smarter choices about reinforcement.

Choosing the Right Vinyl: Not All PVC Is Created Equal

“Vinyl is vinyl” is a myth. Quality varies drastically.

UV inhibitors: Look for formulations with high titanium dioxide content and UV stabilizers suitable for California sun. This resists yellowing and brittleness. Thickness: Heavier post walls and rails matter for wind loads and longevity. Reinforcement: Mid-rail or bottom rail aluminum inserts add rigidity, especially for gates and long spans. Warranty: Read the fine print. Does it cover fade, chalking, cracking, and workmanship? Is it pro-rated?

Mistake to avoid: Buying builder-grade panels meant for low-wind, mild climates. Arroyo Grande demands fence-grade vinyl with proper additives and reinforcements, especially for tall privacy fences.

Post Placement, Depth, and Spacing: The Backbone of Stability

Post issues are the number one cause of wobbly fences, panel failures, and gate sag. Here’s how to get it right.

Spacing: Honor manufacturer spacing (commonly 6–8 feet). Extending span length to “save a post” encourages midspan flex and rail pullout in wind. Depth: Standard is at least 1/3 of total fence height or 24–36 inches in coastal and wind-prone zones. Err deeper for corners, gates, and end posts. Diameter: Increase footing diameter in sandy soils or high-wind exposures. Concrete: Use a high-quality premix suitable for structural posts. Avoid quick-setting blends for all holes if temperatures or moisture conditions vary. Crown the top: Slightly slope concrete at the top to shed water away from the post sleeve.

Mistake to avoid: Pouring “soupy” concrete that separates and weakens as it cures. Follow bag instructions for water content.

Drainage and Frost Heave: Yes, It Matters Here Too

While true frost heave isn’t typical on the Central Coast, waterlogged soil cycles and expanding clay can push posts over time.

Gravel base: In heavy soils, add 3–6 inches of compacted gravel at the footing bottom for drainage. Post sleeves: Ensure water cannot enter the post cavity and sit there. Use caps and seal where appropriate. Weep holes: Some systems use small weeps to allow any internal condensation to escape.

Mistake to avoid: Setting posts directly into wet clay without drainage accommodations.

Slope and Grade: Stepping vs. Racking without Regrets

Arroyo Grande properties often have gentle to moderate slopes. Fence lines must respect both function and local aesthetics.

Racking: Some vinyl panels can rack (angle) to follow a slope continuously. Great for gradual slopes. Stepping: On steeper grades, step panels in discrete levels for a clean look and proper panel fit. Mix and match: Use a combination depending on grade changes.

Mistakes to avoid:

Forcing non-rackable panels to rack, causing rail pullout and panel stress. Inconsistent step heights that look amateurish and complicate gate alignment. Not planning gate locations with slope in mind, leading to scrape or sag.

Pro tip: Snap a string line for both the bottom and top rail references. Walk the line, adjust for obstacles, and pre-plan step transitions.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Leave Room to Breathe

Vinyl expands in heat and contracts in cold—Arroyo Grande’s sunny afternoons and cool evenings accelerate this daily.

Expansion gaps: Leave manufacturer-recommended gaps at rail ends and brackets. Fasteners: Use slotted holes where specified to allow movement without cracking. Color choice: Darker vinyl absorbs more heat and moves more; plan accordingly.

Mistake to avoid: Tight, fixed connections that cause buckling on hot days and cracks during cool snaps.

Gates: Your Fence’s Most Demanding Component

If a vinyl fence fails, it’s often at the gate. It bears weight, movement, and wind.

Reinforcement: Use aluminum or steel inserts in gate rails. Do not rely on hollow vinyl alone. Hinges and latches: Choose corrosion-resistant, adjustable hardware. Plan for self-closing if required by code (e.g., near pools). Posts: Gate posts should be deeper and set in larger-diameter footings than line posts. Clearance: Leave appropriate ground clearance to accommodate lawn growth and slope.

Mistake to avoid: Hanging a heavy, wide gate on a standard line post footing. It will sag.

Hardware and Assembly: Tight Enough, But Not Too Tight

Vinyl systems are engineered to snap together with moderate fastener tension.

Over-tightening screws: Can crack vinyl or prevent thermal movement. Incorrect brackets: Mixing bracket types can void warranties and reduce holding power. Missing mid-rails: Compromises panel rigidity, especially for privacy styles.

Pro move: Use a torque-limited driver setting or hand-tighten final turns to avoid stripping or cracking.

Utility Lines, Setbacks, and Sight Lines: Safety and Courtesy

Before digging:

Call 811 to mark utilities. Respect setback rules near sidewalks, streets, and intersections. Preserve sight triangles on corner lots for driver and pedestrian safety.

Mistake to avoid: Creating a blind spot at a driveway or intersection that could cause accidents—and liability.

Budgeting and Timeline: The Hidden Costs of “Cheap and Fast”

It’s tempting to chase the lowest bid or rush to finish before a holiday. Resist both.

Lowest bid traps: Thin vinyl, shallow posts, minimal concrete, and no reinforcement often lurk behind unrealistically low quotes. Timeline realism: Concrete needs time to cure. Rushing to hang panels or gates on green concrete invites failures.

Mistake to avoid: Paying twice—once for the cheap job, again for the fix.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: What’s Right for You?

Ask yourself:

Do you have the tools—post hole digger, level, string line, saws suitable for vinyl, torque-limited driver? Can you handle layout on sloped terrain? Are you comfortable reading and following manufacturer specs to preserve warranty coverage?

When to DIY:

Short runs, flat terrain, and straightforward layouts. You’re meticulous and comfortable with concrete and layout.

When to hire a pro:

Long runs, multiple gates, steep slopes, or windy exposure. HOA/permit-heavy neighborhoods where documentation matters.

If you’re local, a reputable provider like Royal Gate and Fence Co can handle site assessment, permitting guidance, material selection, and installation that’s tailored to Arroyo Grande’s unique conditions.

Not sure vinyl’s your best bet? Here’s how materials stack up for Arroyo Grande.

Chain Link Fencing

Pros: Budget-friendly, fast install, durable in coastal environments, great for pets.

Cons: Low privacy, utilitarian look.

Best for: Side yards, dog runs, back-of-property perimeters.

Wood Fencing

Pros: Warm, classic look; flexible designs; great for custom heights and styles.

Cons: Maintenance heavy near the coast; vulnerable to rot and pests if not maintained.

Best for: Homeowners who prioritize aesthetic and are willing to maintain.

Ornamental Fencing (Aluminum/Steel)

Pros: High-end look, great visibility, rust-resistant options available.

Cons: Higher cost; less privacy.

Best for: Front yards, pool perimeters (with code compliance), view properties.

Agricultural Fencing

Pros: Cost-effective coverage for large properties; good for livestock and boundary control.

Cons: Not a privacy solution; may require regular tension checks.

Best for: Ranches, vineyards, and large rural parcels.

Vinyl Fencing

Pros: Low maintenance, great privacy, UV- and moisture-resistant with the right grade.

Cons: Must be installed correctly to handle wind and thermal movement; higher upfront than chain link or basic wood.

Tip: If you love the look of wood but want low maintenance, consider wood-look vinyl styles. If you want visibility and style, ornamental aluminum is a strong pick for the coast.

Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Vinyl Fence in Arroyo Grande

Use this roadmap to minimize risk and avoid the most common vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA.

Define Goals Privacy, security, pet safety, curb appeal, or noise reduction? Identify gate locations and sizes early. Check Rules City codes, HOA guidelines, easements, and corner-lot sight lines. Site Survey Confirm property lines. Walk the site for slopes, trees, sprinklers, rocks. Choose Materials Select fence-grade vinyl with UV inhibitors and reinforced rails. Pick hardware that’s corrosion-resistant and adjustable. Layout Design String lines for top and bottom reference. Decide on racking vs. stepping for slopes. Plan post spacing according to manufacturer specs. Utilities and Safety Call 811. Identify irrigation lines and drain fields. Footings Size depth and diameter for wind and soil. Add gravel base where needed. Mix and cure concrete properly. Assembly Observe expansion gaps. Avoid over-tightening. Install gates with reinforcement. Final Checks Ensure plumb, level, line, and gate swing clearances. Cap all posts. Clean surfaces; inspect for scratches before final tighten. Maintenance Plan Rinse salt spray periodically. Lube hinges as needed. Inspect after major wind events.

Table: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | How to Avoid | |---|---|---| | Shallow post holes | Wind leverage topples fence | 24–36 inch depth; deeper for gates/corners | | No gravel base in clay | Water pooling weakens footing | 3–6 inches compacted gravel at bottom | | Over-tightened hardware | Cracks vinyl; blocks thermal movement | Hand-snug; use slotted holes per spec | | Wrong panel for slope | Panel stress and pullout | Use rackable panels or step correctly | | No expansion gaps | Buckling in heat; cracking in cool | Leave manufacturer-specified gaps | | Cheap vinyl without UV stabilization | Yellowing, brittleness | Choose fence-grade with UV inhibitors | | Ignored HOA/city rules | Fines or forced removal | Verify height, style, and setback before digging | | Improper gate reinforcement | Sagging, latch misalignment | Reinforced rails and larger gate posts | | Skipped utility locate | Safety hazards, costly repairs | Call 811 and mark irrigation lines | | Rushed concrete cure | Wobbly posts and misalignment | Allow proper cure time before paneling |

Arroyo Grande Micro-Considerations: Coast, Hills, and Heat

Coastal proximity: Closer to the ocean means more salt spray. Rinse vinyl periodically and choose stainless or coated hardware. Hillside properties: Increased wind exposure requires heavier posts, deeper footings, and careful gate planning. Sun cycles: Vinyl can heat quickly. Light colors reflect heat better and reduce thermal movement and surface temperature.

Mistake to avoid: Treating every yard the same. Adapt materials and methods to your micro-location.

Sustainable Choices: Eco-Friendly Fencing Practices

Vinyl has a reputation for longevity, but what about sustainability?

Recycled content: Some manufacturers offer recycled core material with virgin exterior layers for strength and appearance. Long life cycle: Vinyl’s low maintenance reduces paints, stains, and solvents compared to wood. End-of-life: Ask suppliers about reclaim and recycling programs.

Pro tip: Pair vinyl with drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce water use and keep fence bases drier.

Quality Control Checklist: Before You Call It Done

Run through this checklist to ensure you avoided the most common vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA:

Posts are plumb and evenly spaced per spec. Footings are fully cured; tops crowned for drainage. Rails have proper expansion clearances. Panels fit without stress; no forced racking of non-rackable panels. Gates swing freely, self-close if required, and latch securely. Hardware is snug, not over-tight. Post caps are secure and sealed if necessary. No utilities were compromised; sprinklers still function. Neighbor-facing sides comply with any “good neighbor” rules. Final walkthrough completed in late afternoon wind conditions.

Cost Expectations: What Drives the Price in Arroyo Grande

Expect ranges based on:

Height and linear footage Style (privacy vs. picket vs. semi-privacy) Reinforcement and gate count Site complexity (slope, rock, access) Material grade and hardware

Pro move: Get itemized quotes. If one bid is far lower, ask what’s different—post depth, concrete volume, vinyl thickness, or warranty.

Q: What are the top vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA? A: The most common mistakes include setting posts too shallow, skipping gravel in clay soils, over-tightening hardware, ignoring expansion gaps, forcing non-rackable panels on slopes, choosing low-grade vinyl without UV protection, and rushing concrete cure times. Proper planning for wind, soil, and slope prevents these failures.

Q: How deep should vinyl fence posts be in Arroyo Grande? A: For 6-foot vinyl privacy fences, 24–36 inches is typical depending on wind exposure and soil. Gate, corner, and end posts should be deeper and set in larger-diameter footings for extra stability.

Q: Can vinyl fences handle coastal conditions? A: Yes—when you choose fence-grade vinyl with UV inhibitors and use corrosion-resistant hardware. Rinse periodically to remove salt spray, and follow manufacturer installation specs to manage wind and thermal movement.

Q: Is stepping or racking better on slopes? A: Use rackable panels for gentle slopes and stepping for steeper grades. Mixing both methods along a run often yields the best fit and appearance.

Q: Do I need a permit for a vinyl fence in Arroyo Grande? A: It depends on height, location, and local fence installation rules. Check with the City of Arroyo Grande and your HOA if applicable. When in doubt, verify before digging.

Maintenance Myths and Realities

Myth: Vinyl fences are maintenance-free. Reality: They’re low-maintenance. Rinse with water a few times a year, wash off sap or mildew with mild detergent, and lubricate gate hardware annually. Inspect after high wind events.

Myth: Vinyl can’t be repaired. Reality: Many components are modular. Damaged rails or pickets can be replaced without tearing out an entire section.

Myth: All vinyl fades quickly in the sun. Reality: Quality, UV-stabilized vinyl holds color for decades. Choose reputable manufacturers and installers who stand behind those claims.

Working with a Local Pro: What to Ask Before You Hire

Interview at least two installers. Ask:

What vinyl brands and grades do you use, and why? How deep and wide will you set posts for my site conditions? How will you handle my slope—rack, step, or both? What reinforcement do you include for gates? Can I see recent Arroyo Grande projects and reviews? What does your workmanship warranty cover?

A reputable local company—such as Royal Gate and Fence Co—can offer site-specific recommendations, show you past work nearby, and detail the materials and methods they’ll use to meet Arroyo Grande’s wind and soil demands.

Case Scenarios: Learn from Real-World Pitfalls

The Wind Tunnel Backyard

Problem: Solid privacy panels installed with shallow posts in a valley corridor.

Outcome: Fence leaned after first fall wind event.

Fix: Reset posts deeper with larger-diameter footings; added aluminum rail reinforcement.

The Slope Surprise

Problem: Attempted to rack non-rackable panels on a variable slope.

Outcome: Rail pullout and panel warping.

Fix: Replaced sections with rackable panels and stepped transitions where grade increased.

The Gate That Wouldn’t Behave

Problem: Wide double gate hung on standard line post settings with minimal reinforcement.

Outcome: Gate sag, latch misalignment within weeks.

Fix: Upgraded gate posts and hinges; added internal rail reinforcement; recalibrated swing.

Each of these could have been avoided with better planning and site-specific installation methods.

Safety and Liability: Protect Yourself and Your Neighbors

Dig Safe: Always call 811. Pool Code: If fencing a pool or spa, follow gate self-close and latch height rules. Shared Boundaries: Discuss plans with neighbors to avoid disputes. Consider “good neighbor” fence designs that look finished on both sides. Insurance: Verify your contractor’s insurance and license; ask for proof.

Mistake to avoid: Assuming a private fence has no public safety implications. Corner visibility and pool safety are serious matters.

Timeline Blueprint: From Idea to Installed

Week 1: Define goals, measure, and sketch layout. Week 2: Consult HOA and city; call 811; request quotes. Week 3: Select materials and installer; finalize design. Week 4: Prepare site, remove obstacles; schedule installation. Week 5: Set posts and footings; allow proper cure. Week 6: Install panels and gates; perform quality checks.

Of course, schedules flex with season, supply, and weather, but the key is building in cure time and inspections.

Budget Tips Without Cutting Corners

Prioritize structure: Never skimp on post depth, diameter, or concrete volume. Right-size panels: Stick to manufacturer spacing to avoid custom cuts and waste. Phase big projects: Do primary boundaries now; add decorative or interior runs later. Choose durable hardware: Stainless or coated hardware saves replacement costs down the line.

What not to do: Trade a small upfront savings for systemic weaknesses. Structural shortcuts are the most expensive mistakes over time.

The Aesthetic Angle: Make It Look Like It Belongs

Color coordination: Creams and tans often complement Arroyo Grande’s stucco and coastal palettes. Top profiles: Consider lattice tops or alternating picket heights for visual interest where privacy isn’t absolute. Gate accents: Decorative hinges and handles elevate curb appeal without a huge cost.

Tip: Mock up a small section or use manufacturer visualizers to preview style and color.

Vinyl Fence Longevity: What Determines a 5-Year vs. 25-Year Fence

Material grade and UV stabilization Post depth and footing quality Proper thermal movement allowances Reinforced gates and rails Routine cleaning and hardware maintenance

Get those right, and your fence can look nearly new for decades.

Troubleshooting: If Something Goes Wrong

Minor Lean: Check footing integrity; add bracing; re-level if concrete is compromised. Panel Rattle: Verify rail locks and bracket tightness; look for missing or misplaced screws. Gate Sag: Adjust hinges; confirm post plumb; add reinforcement if needed. Discoloration: Clean with mild detergent; avoid harsh chemicals that can dull finish.

Know when to call a pro—especially if structural elements or safety are in question.

FAQs

Q1: How long does a vinyl fence last in Arroyo Grande? A1: With quality materials and proper installation, 20–30 years is common. Coastal maintenance—like periodic rinsing—helps maximize lifespan.

Q2: Will vinyl fencing warp in the Arroyo Grande sun? A2: Quality, UV-stabilized vinyl resists warping. Proper expansion gaps and avoiding dark colors in full-sun, high-heat areas further reduce risk.

Q3: Can I mix vinyl with Chain Link Fencing or Ornamental Fencing? A3: Yes. Many properties use vinyl for privacy areas and chain link or ornamental for visibility or cost control. Transitions require planned posts and adapters.

Q4: What height is best for privacy without upsetting neighbors? A4: Six feet is common and typically acceptable, but confirm HOA and city rules. Consider good-neighbor designs and discuss plans with neighbors to avoid surprises.

Q5: Who should I call for a site-specific assessment? A5: A local, licensed installer with Arroyo Grande experience is best. Companies like Royal Gate and Fence Co understand local wind patterns, soil conditions, and permitting.

Vinyl Fencing Installation Mistakes to Avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA: Key Takeaways

Plan before you dig: permits, property lines, and HOA rules. Engineer for local conditions: wind, soil, slope, and sun. Don’t skimp on structure: deeper posts, correct spacing, reinforced gates. Respect vinyl’s nature: allow for thermal movement and use UV-stabilized materials. Choose the right team: an experienced Fence Contractor in Arroyo Grande, CA will save you headaches and money.

Remember, the title of this guide—Vinyl Fencing Installation Mistakes to Avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA—isn’t just catchy. It’s your roadmap. Follow it, and your fence will look great and last.

Conclusion: Build It Once, Build It Right

Vinyl fencing can be a dream choice for Arroyo Grande homeowners—clean lines, low maintenance, and coastal resilience. But even great material will fail if it’s installed like an afterthought. From post depth and footing drainage to slope strategy, wind adaptation, and gate reinforcement, success lives in the details.

If you’re going the DIY route, lean on this guide, ask questions, and take your time. If you’re hiring, vet your Fence Builder Arroyo Grande, CA carefully, insist on clear specs, and compare more than just price. A trusted local provider like Royal Gate and Fence Co can help you navigate material options, site specifics, and compliance so your fence is beautiful, code-compliant, and built to outlast coastal weather.

Most importantly, avoid the pitfalls we’ve outlined—the vinyl fencing installation mistakes to avoid in Arroyo Grande, CA that most commonly lead to frustration and early replacement. With the right plan and the right execution, your new fence won’t just mark a boundary. It’ll enhance your property for decades to come.

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Pub: 23 Oct 2025 11:27 UTC

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