Things You'll Need:
- Pressure treated or cedar 2x4 lumber for posts and cross pieces
- 2 1/2 inch screws
- Quick setting concrete (one 60 pound bag for every two posts)
- Pickets
- Saw
- Drill
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Step 1
Measure the height you want the posts, and then add 18 inches. Mark where you would like the post holes with chalk or marking paint. The post holes should be no more than four feet apart, for stability. Dig post holes 18 inches deep. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you should measure an extra two feet (24 inches) on the posts, and dig your post holes two feet deep.
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Step 2
Make sure all the posts are at the same depth. Pour quick setting cement into each post hole. Have a helper hold the post straight, and add water as directed on the package. You can also mix the cement in a wheelbarrow. You will have to work fast, as the cement sets quickly. Let the posts set overnight.
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Step 3
Cut the cross pieces to the desired length (if your posts are four feet apart, measure the cross pieces to four feet plus four inches). They should overlap each post by two inches (each post is four inches wide). Screw the cross pieces to the posts on the outside of the posts (facing the street).
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Step 4
Attach the pickets to the cross pieces. You can use nails or screws, but the work goes much faster with screws and an electric screwdriver.
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Step 5
Use a measuring tape or another picket to make an equal distance between each picket. Make sure the tops of the pickets are all the same height along the fence. You may have to remove dirt or cut a picket shorter if you have a rise in the ground. Plant flowers or shrubs along the inside or outside of your fence.
