How to Build Wood Fence Post Caps

There are many reasons to build a fence. Among these are aesthetics, privacy, durability and cost. There are many different materials and styles to choose from. One constant with all of these is the fence post. Fence post caps add beauty and style to the top of fence posts, and can be made into various designs out of many different materials.

Things You'll Need

• 2-inch by 8-inch piece of lumber
• Tall board
• Clamps
• Table saw
• Scrap wood to use as a backer board
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Stain or paint
• Wood adhesive

Instructions

1. Cut the 2-by-8 lumber to 8 inches long, forming a square for the post cap.

2. Tilt the table saw blade to 15 degrees. The angle can be adjusted if you want a steeper or shallower point on the cap.

3. Clamp a tall board to the table saw fence. Stand each of the 2-inch sides of the post cap square on the table saw top and take a piece of scrap wood and clamp it to the post cap square.

4. Slide the post cap square to cut the beveled edge. Repeat for all four sides.

5. Use the sandpaper to smooth the wood and then stain or paint per personal preference. Glue to the top of the fence post with wood adhesive.

Tips & Warnings

• Call your local government to make sure there aren't any required permits and to learn the local codes (if there are any).

• Cedar is a great wood to use. It doesn't need to be treated, as do most other raw woods.

References

• Building a Fence
• Deck Building Tips

Resources

• Fence Types and Styles