How to Make Privacy Fence Rails

Fence rails are the cross members that run between fence posts. The fence rail carries the load of the fencing boards and must stand up to the pressures exerted on the fence by winds and other forces. If the fence rails fail, the fence fails. When fences are being built on site rather than purchased and installed in sections, the fence rail can be made of substantially stronger wood than some of the wood used in fencing panels. This improved quality will help make the fence last longer and provide better service to the homeowner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape measure and pencil
• String level
• Straight edge
• Exterior weather-resistant wood
• Table saw
• 3-inch galvanized deck screws
• Power screwdriver
• Level

1. Determine if your fence posts will rise above the top edge of the privacy fence or be recessed below the top edge. The style of privacy fence and the size of the posts will determine this. Larger or decorative posts are used both for strength and as decorative elements. Unobtrusive smaller posts are used to create a seamless look.

2. Measure and mark one post 5 to 6 inches from the top of the post. Stretch the string and string level across to the next post and mark a line on each post. This is the top of the top rail mark. Measure between the posts.

3. Mark and cut the exterior weather-resistant wood to the rail length.

4. Cut the rail. Some top rails are shaped like an L using two boards screwed together. This prevents bowing of the wood and allows for a wider profile on the top rail.

5. Align the rail with the top marks on the post and use a standard level while screwing the rail into position.

6. Measure and mark one post 5 to 6 inches from the bottom of the post. Stretch the string and string level across to the next post and mark a line on each post. This is the bottom of the bottom rail mark. Measure between the posts.

7. Cut, align and screw the bottom rail into position.

8. Divide the distance between the top and bottom rail and mark one post. Make a second mark above the first mark equal to half the height of the rail. Use the string level and mark the other post. Measure between the marks.

9. Cut, align and screw the middle rail into position.

Tips & Warnings

• Using galvanized screws makes it easier to remove rails if they become damaged or otherwise need to be taken down. If pickets are installed individually, use galvanized nails as well. Adjustments often need to be made to the height of the bottom rail if a lot is steeply sloped where some portions of the lower part of the fence are contoured.

References

• Do-It-Yourself Privacy Fence at PlantCare.com