Building a fence can be a daunting task. It’s one of those projects that seems like it should be easy, but so many little things can go wrong. That’s why so many people choose to hire a professional fence builder instead. But what if you want to save some money and build the fence yourself?
This blog post by Castle Rock Deck & Fence will discuss the different steps involved in building your fence.
Step 1: Lay Out
Grab a string line and some batter boards from your toolkit. You’ll use them to outline the perimeter of your fence. With spray paint, mark your fencepost positions by spacing them every 6 to 8 feet along the fence. Doing this first will ensure that you have a nice, even fence line when you’re finished.
Step 2: Dig Up
Before you start, you might want to read the building codes in your area. Some might require you to dig holes below the frost line to prevent the ground from pushing up the fence posts during a frost. A power drill can help you in this case.
Once that’s determined, grab your shovel or post-hole digger and scrape your holes according to post size and code. The diameter for each should be roughly three times the post’s width.
Step 3: Set Posts
Pour about 3 to 4 inches of gravel into the post holes, and then with the end of the post, tamp or pack the gravel in. Set the post in the middle of the hole, then add the concrete mix within 6 inches of ground level.
You’ll need a level to ensure that the post is vertically straight or plumb. Use braces to hold the posts in place, then remove them after the concrete is dry, which usually takes several days.
Step 4: Attach Rails or Panels
Secure either of the above items to the posts using deck screws or nails, with two fasteners for each post. You can use a line level to ensure that each rail is straight. Taller fences will need about three rails or panels, but fences up to 4 feet in height should need a top and bottom rail.
If you’ve decided to attach rails, use a level to set the first picket. After that, grab a spacer block to help install the rest of the pickets. Secure each rail with deck screws or nails and 2 to 3 fasteners. Your posts will also need post caps, which you’ll ensure fit securely using a rubber mallet to attach them.
Step 5: Stain and Treat
If you’ve opted for a wooden fence, you’ll need to use a wood preservative to fight against rotting. Add at least two coats to the more absorbent end grain: the wood cut across growth rings. If you’re using pressure-treated lumber, you can skip this step.
Stain or paint your fence to your liking. You can then retreat and stain or paint your fence every 2 or 3 years to ensure it stays sturdy and picture-perfect.
Conclusion
DIY projects are always fun and amazing to try, but some are better left to the professionals. If you’re not feeling confident about your fence-building abilities, reach out to Castle Rock Deck & Fence in Denver, CO., We’re here to help you create the perfect fence for your home!
