How to Build a Fence

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Appearance and construction are two important things that should be considered when getting ready to build a fence. But the most important thing to consider is the support of the fence. Your fence is only as strong as the supports. It is best to place your posts in cement. Preserving your fence with a sealer or using pressure treated wood will provide you with a fence to enjoy for many years to come.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Cement
Post digger
Shovel
String line
Nail gun
Circular saw
Chop saw
Level

Step 1

Lay out your posts preferably 6 feet apart from each other before you begin to build your fence.
Step 2

Stick up string line to keep your posts in line.
Step 3

Dig holes 18 inches deep using a post hole digger.
Step 4

Put the posts in the post holes.
Step 5

Mix the cement for the post holes.
Step 6

Fill all the post holes with cement to level with the ground.
Step 7

Check each post to ensure that they are level and plum.
Step 8

Let posts set for 24 hours before continuing to build your fence.
Step 9

Cut your top and lower fence rail once the posts have set up. Then nail them 4 feet apart from each other.
Step 10

Nail up your pickets maintaining a ¼-inch gap in between them.
Step 11

Trim any excess wood off the top of the post.

Tips & Warnings

Check and recheck plum and level the posts before concrete sets up.
Check your string line to ensure that your posts are in line with each other.
To prevent warping or checking (cracking), it is a good idea to seal your fence with oil-based wood sealer.
To help the weathering of your fence, it is best to use pressure-treated Redwood or Cedar posts, pickets and rails.
Pickets range in sizes from 4 feet to 6 feet.
Be sure to check posts and pickets are not warped to ensure an even fence line.
If your fence is along your property line, you might want to talk to your neighbor to make sure it’s okay.