Plan Your Fence
You will likely need a permit before you build your DIY fence. Check local building codes regarding fence height restrictions. Another example, backyard fence height can be limited to 6 feet or 8 feet.
Measure and Lay Out the Fence Posts
Installing the fence begins by laying out the perimeter using the batter boards and string line. The Mason’s line is a good choice because it is strong enough to be pulled tightly. Running the string line to represent either the outside or inside perimeter of the fence. If running your fence parallel to the street.
Dig Holes
Dig holes with a post hole digger or two person auger. You can hire a contractor to dig the holes for you. When using an auger, avoid areas marked by the power company. Dig holes about three-quarters as deep as they are tall. For example, an 8 foot post should have a hole that is at least 2 1/2 feet deep plus add about 4 inches for gravel. You should drill a hole with a diameter three times as wide as the diameter of the post. In cold weather, dig below the frost line. Look up the frost line in your area online or call your local building office. You’ll have to dig a bit deeper than usual to get to the bottom of this issue.
Tip. Call 811 before you dig. Utility companies will mark where underground lines are before you start digging. It’s never a good idea to risk losing an electrical line.
Position Posts in Concrete
When the holes are dug, it’s time for the next part of building a fence.
Attach Rails or Panels to Posts
After the concrete has cured, it’s time to build the fence.
Attach Pickets to Rails
Once the rails are in place, begin attaching the pickets to the rails.
Attach Post Caps
To finish building a fence, attach post caps to each of the posts. You should tap each cap lightly with a rubber mallet. It’s time to add the cap to the roof. Use a galvanized finish nail to affix it
Stain or Treat the Wood
The last step in building a wood fence is staining or treating the wood. Building a fence starts with a fair amount of preparation and planning. Fences can be made from wood, vinyl and metal. When installing a fence, be sure to look closely at the fence posts, fence and gate to determine what type of fence will best fit your needs. This can add a touch of elegance to your property. If you don’t have the proper tools to complete this DIY fence project, don’t worry.
Here’s more about How To Maintain Your Fence.
DIY or Professional Fence Installation: Will you really save money building your own fence?
When you’re considering whether you should get your fence professionally installed or if you should do it yourself, it’s worth considering the cost and the maintenance involved with hiring a professional fence installer. You might also be thinking about DIY because you’re considering it to save money. If you decide to install your own fence, there are many ways you can do it. The cost and process may vary depending on the type of fence you choose and what kind of work you need to do.
Building your own fence may save you money, but you’ll pay in blood, sweat, and tears
It’s important to know that when you hire a contractor for fence installation, you are not just paying for the materials. You are also paying for the services. You’re not just paying for materials—you’re also paying the workers who installed those materials. If you opt for DIY installation, your only cost is the materials, but you’ll be paying for your own labor! New DIYers often underestimate the amount of time they’ll spend on a project, so you’d better estimate the time it might take to complete it and factor in the benefits you’re expecting. It’s hard to estimate how long a project will take, because that depends on your ability and the challenges that arise along the way. If your time is valuable, then it’s better spent doing something that’s more profitable than doing nothing, but that’s just my opinion. The less experienced you are with carpentry, digging, and other tasks involved in building a fence, the harder it will be to build your fence quickly. When they make their first payment, they’re usually not sure how much the project cost, if they’ll enjoy it, or whether the materials were worth it. Some people like to get their hands dirty by doing all of the work themselves. Time and money are probably the most important factors in how you spend them.
Building your own fence will give your yard that personal touch, but it’s not the only way
Not all DIY jobs are good for the homeowners. You can still be a part of the project and customize your project results by working with your fence installation contractor closely. It’s ultimately your choice. There’s no right way to do it, whether you start from scratch, purchase a kit, or have someone else install it for you. When is the last time you saved money by building your own fence? What did it take to do it?Did it really give you the thrill of doing it yourself, or was it more about saving money?
Contact us for professional installation.
