DIY Stand Alone Log Fence

You can use a simple log fence design to mark your property borders.

A stand-alone log fence is simply a natural fence with the posts supported by packed dirt instead of concrete. This form of fencing is much more practical for large acreage where you are simply marking boundaries. If you are keeping in cattle or horses, use a more solid fence.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Post digger
• Hand saw
• Posts
• Strainer posts
• Horizontal logs

Instructions

1. Measure the perimeter of your property to determine how many posts you'll need. Posts should be spaced every 4 feet.

2. Dig the holes for the posts using a post digger. If you have clay soil, this will be a hard job that is best done just after a rain storm when the soil is softer. For a stand-alone fence, make the holes 2 feet deep.

3. Cut the notches into your posts. You'll want a notch placed 2/3 of the way up the posts for the strainer post and notches placed at every quarter of the way up for the logs. Cut a notch into the ends of the logs to complement the notch in the posts.

4. Position the posts in the holes and verify the post is sitting completely level.

5. Fill in the dirt around the post, tamping it every 6 inches. Position a border of large rocks around the base for added stability.

6. Position the strainer post to support and add strength to the post.

7. Install the next post, but add the horizontal logs before filling in the dirt. In this way, the logs are fitted tightly between the two posts.

References

• Small Farm Permaculture and Sustainable Living: Pasture Fence Field Put Up Guide
• "The Fence Bible: How to Plan, Install and Build Fences and Gates to Meet Every Home Style and Property Need, no Matter What Size Your Yard;" Jeff Beneke; 2005