How to Install Any Wood Fence
Install an attractive wood fence with these simple instructions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- drill
- galvanized screws
- reciprocating saw
- shovel
- post hole digger
- wood stakes
- string line
- level
Instructions
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The first thing you will have to do is find your property line. It is required by code that you have to maintain at least 24" from the property line (on your side) and the fence height may not exceed 6'. Please check your local codes for verification.
After you have found your property line, measure onto your yard from the line the minimum distance the fence has to be on your property. Pound a stake in against the house. Measure and pound a stake in where you want your fence to run. Tie a string line between the two and you have your fence line. -
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Now dig a hole for your first post at least 3' deep. This is to avoid heaving from the ice or sinking from water penetration. Once you have your hole dug out, drop one end of your post in the hole. Use you level to plumb the post. Make sure the post is right against the line when plumb and add dirt to the hole packing the dirt with the end of your shovel and your foot. It is not recommended to concrete fence posts in because of constant earth movement. You will easily be able to adjust your fence as it ages prolonging the life of your fence.
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Take your first fence panel and figure out how far off the ground you would like it to be. Now take a 2x4, measure up the distance you chose for the bottom fence height, make a mark and line that mark up with the bottom of the fence. Put a few screws to hold the 2x4 in place and stand the fence panel up.
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Now take the fence panel to your first post and attach it to the post, using your level to guild your attachment. Use galvanized screws to avoid rusting screws. The 2x4 has set the height of the fence and the position of the new post. Repeat step 2 then step 3 until you are at the last post. Finish your last post and look down the fence. It should be perfectly straight and it should be all the same height. Now cut off the top of the posts so they are all the same. Use a reciprocating saw and then go over lightly with 100 grit sandpaper.
Congratulations! You have finished installing a fence.
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Tips & Warnings
If your landscape changes in incline, you can stagger the height of the fence to match the landscape to a point. This requires a variety of post lengths and is very challenging.
Check you local municipality for codes and requirements for fencing in your area.
