Fence Construction
What is the Purpose of a Fence? Protection from enemies To keep livestock in or protect from predators To protect a garden from animals Privacy Ornamental Other?
Step 1: String a line where the fence is to be built. Usually this is along the property line. Find the official boundary and err a little on YOUR property!
Step 2: Determine the Fence Height 6’ is typical for a residential privacy fence.
Step 3: Set your End Posts If you want a 6’ fence, you’ll need to dig a hole more than 2’ deep for each post. The posts must be less than 6’ above ground! WHY?
Step 4: Run a Level Line Put a nail in the end posts and run a string between them. TIP: Use a level to adjust the string until level!
Step 5: Dig additional holes 8’ on center from the end posts.
Step 6: Place each post TIP: You may end up with one section that is less then 8’, so try to plan that for a section That will be hidden by bushes or trees.
Step 7: “Plumb” and set each post in concrete Use concrete NOT dirt
Step 8: Add Horizontal “Stringers” TIP: Use 2”x4”s. Two are enough. One about 12” from the top – the other about 12” from the bottom.
Use 2”x4” Brackets Alternate brackets closer to your yard for one section and then closer to your neighbor’s yard for the next section. Your Yard Neighbor’s Yard
1.Get your base material. 2.Draw a property line on two adjoining sides that is ½” from each edge and each corner.
1.Measure and make a mark at the end of each line and every 3”. 2.You will end up with shorter sections in the corner. 3.Drill “dimples” about ¼” deep into each hole. Make sure each hole is centered on the line.
1.Glue a 4”x4” post (1/4”x1/4” balsa wood) into each hole. 2.“Plumb” each post by making sure they are perfectly vertical before they dry.
Measure and glue horizontal 2”x4”s between each post. 2”x4”s must be ½” from the top of the post and ½” from the ground. To be neighbor- friendly, alternate the 2”x4”s so they are closer to one side and then closer to the other side.
Neighbor-Friendly Your Yard Neighbor’s Yard