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When determining your fence line the
best thing to do is talk to your neighbors. If you're in disagreement you can
look for the property survey markers or if all else fails have your property
surveyed. It's best to keep the entire fence on your property. Once you know the
fence line mark it with a string line. Using stakes hammered into the ground run
the line 2 feet past each end of the fence line. Secure the string tightly to
the stakes.
Next you need to treat your posts by following the manufacturers
recommendations. I would suggest treatment at least 8 inches above ground level.
You can also purchase posts that are pre-treated from your lumber store if you
wish.
Measure your post holes 8 feet apart. I wouldn't recommend any further apart as
through time your fence may sag or lean. Dig the holes about 28 inches deep.
Make sure all posts are of equal distance apart. It's now time to prepare your
concrete for setting the posts. Mix your concrete with 1 part cement, 2 parts
sand and 3 parts gravel. Add water and mix to a thick consistency but at the
same time wet enough to pour all the way around the posts. Fill each hole 6
inches deep. Now it's time to place the posts in every hole. Use a level to make
sure each post is plumb and barely touching the string. Finish filling each hole
to about 2 inches below ground level. Double check each post making sure it's
plumb.
After the posts have set it's time to add the railings. Make sure to set the
bottom rail 8 inches above ground and be careful to have both ends the same
height from the ground. Fasten the top rails by measuring from the bottom rail
up to the desired position. Finally attach the middle rail central between the
bottom and top rails.
Before you nail the boards to the railings you might want to consider staining
or painting them first as it is easier than doing this after they've been
fastened. If you decide to go this route you should also stain or paint the
posts and rails prior to attaching the boards. Using a spacer to maintain equal
gaps you can begin nailing the boards to the rails, using 2 of the 2 1/2 inch
nails hammered on each rail. Use a level to make sure the boards are vertically
plumb.
Now that your fence is up you probably want a gate. First you need to determine
the size of the gate. I would recommend a gate no less than 3 feet wide. You
should build a frame with the 2x4's overlapping and attach a middle rail for
durability and strength. To allow room for the hinges and latch make sure the
gate frame is built allowing 1 inch narrower between the gate posts. Next attach
the fence boards and finally install the hinges and latch.
That's all there is to it. Now it's time to take a break and enjoy the beautiful
fence you've just built.
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