How to Frame a Rolled Bamboo Fence

Rolled bamboo fences install quickly after a frame is constructed.

Bamboo fences are decorative outdoor structures that provide privacy in the form of a strong and durable fence. This type of fencing will last up to 20 years if properly maintained. Treat it like a wood product with stains and protective finishes to prevent the bamboo from drying out and cracking. There are several different rolled bamboo fencing options including lightweight to heavy-duty fencing. Rolled bamboo fences need stiff support when installing them.

Things You'll Need

• Fence post hole digger
• Carpenter’s level
• Gravel
• Shovel
• Pressure-treated 4-inch by 4-inch wooden posts
• Pressure-treated 1-inch by 2-inch wooden boards
• Saw
• Measuring tape
• Marking pencil
• Nail gun and nails
• Staple gun
• Galvanized staples

Instructions

1. Dig holes 36 inches deep with a fence post hole digger or shovel spaced every 4 to 6 feet apart. Use a carpenter’s level to check that the holes are straight up and down.

2. Place 2 scoops of gravel in the bottom of each hole with a shovel. This improves drainage around the fence post so water does not puddle around the post. Overly wet and soft ground causes fence posts to loosen and fall over, which destroys part of the fence.

3. Set the pressure-treated 4-inch by 4-inch post in the holes. The posts need to be as tall as the rolled bamboo fence plus 24 inches more. Use the level to make sure the posts are straight. Pack soil or gravel around the posts so the ground around the wood is compact.

4. Cut the pressure-treated 1-inch by 2-inch wood rails with a saw. Use a measuring tape and mark the cut line on the rail. The rails must touch in the center of the posts. Attach the top rail to the first two posts with a nail gun. Nail the bottom rail 2 inches from the ground and attach the center rail. Add the other rails to the rest of the fence frame sections.

5. Place the rolled bamboo fencing against the fence and staple the end to the rails starting at the bottom and working your way upward. Line up the bottom of the bamboo fencing with the bottom of the lowest rail. Use galvanized heavy-duty staples and a staple gun. Place the staples over the top of the wire holding the bamboo pieces together to hide the staples.

Tips & Warnings

• Rolled bamboo fencing can be installed using an existing chain link fence as a frame. Tie the bamboo fencing to the chain link with wire at the top, middle and bottom.

• Do not let the bamboo fence maintain direct contact with the ground when installed. Since bamboo is actually a grass and not a wood product, it deteriorates very quickly when touching the soil. It is also not a good idea to bury the bottom of the bamboo fence.

References

• Bamboo Fence Panels: Rolled Bamboo Fencing
• Millard Lumber: Building Wood Fences