How to Build a Shadowbox Privacy Fence
Shadowbox fences are among the more handsome privacy fences, giving a reasonable amount of privacy while looking attractive from both sides, so both the installer and the neighbor have a pleasant view of the fence.
Due to their design, these fences also allow for increased air circulation, which can help them withstand windy conditions better than a standard stockade privacy fence. Building a shadowbox fence isn't as complicated as it might look. Here's how to build one of your own:
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Things You'll Need
- 1x6" wood boards 2x4" wood rails in 8' lengths Post hole digger 4x4x12' posts Concrete mix String Level Galvanized 4" nails or stainless steel screws Ground stakes
Instructions
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1
When you've decided exactly where you want your fence to run, you need to stake it out from the beginning to the end. Start by tying a string between stakes placed in the corner post positions, making sure that the string remains taut. The posts will be placed along this line which should ensure a nice straight fence.
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2
Measure 8' from the center of the first stake and mark the location of the center of the next post with another stake, making sure that the stake sits against the string. Don't forget to take the positioning of any gates into account at this stage.
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3
Using a post hole digger, dig the first hole. The hole should be deep enough to allow for about 1/3 of the post to be below ground level. To assist in drainage, backfill this hole with about 6" of gravel.
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4
Mix the concrete per the instructions on the bag. Pour concrete mix into the post hole and tap down the post until it reaches the layer of gravel. Use a level to ensure that your posts are all plumb and check again before the concrete is fully set to allow for any final adjustments. Repeat for all the post positions.
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5
When the concrete is fully set, you are ready to attach the horizontal rails. Attach the top one with galvanized nails so that it runs about 12" from the top of the posts; the lower one about 12" from the bottom, and the middle one in the middle of the two.
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Begin on the outside of the fence by attaching the first board to the horizontal rails, keeping it flush with the first post. Then, take another board and lay it next to the one you just attached. This is not to be attached, but is simply to be used as a spacer. Lay the next board flush against the spacer and attach it to the rails. Repeat this process until evenly spaced boards have been attached to the rails all the way from post to post.
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When the outside is finished, repeat the procedure on the inside of the fence, this time starting with the spacer against the first post, so that the inside boards alternate with the ones on the outside.
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Tips & Warnings
When filling the post holes with concrete, build the concrete up around the post in a little mound, so that any moisture will roll away from the post. This will help the post resist rot. Using a narrower board as a spacer will reduce the gaps in the fencing and give you more privacy. Bear in mind though, that you'll use more wooden boards this way.
It is important that you check with any utility companies before beginning to dig holes on your property. Remember too, that some districts and subdivisions are subject to zoning restrictions concerning the placement of fences, so check before beginning your fencing job.
