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How to Install a Fence
Preliminary Decisions
- When beginning this project, make sure there is a drawing for the fence that includes markings of the house.
- How many feet are there to the corners and gates? How about the gate sizes and swing?
- A good neighbor will always make the nicer side of the fence face out. However, there are times when the nicer side should face in, but this is determined on an individual basis.
- Determine the material the fence should be made of, i.e., pressure treated lumber (#2 or better), white vinyl, almond vinyl, or chain link.
- Determine the fence style, i.e., alternate board, privacy, picket, board & batten, 2, 3 or 4 board-split rail, traditional pine picket, or unpainted picket.
- The next step in this sequence is to determine the height of the fence. Typically, fences are 3-4 or 6 feet tall. In most counties a 7′ tall fence or greater requires a permit.
- Choices for the tops of the posts are Flat Top or Gothic.
- If it’s flat it should be capped, typically with a black cap but there are other colors available.
- Finally, decide if you want the gate top to be flat, arched or dipped.
How to Install a FenceTop
- The installation process begins with the removal of any existing fence, clean up and haul away.
- Dig fence or line posts 2′ deep and insert the posts into the holes.
- Be sure to plumb the posts and pack the bases for support.
- Put 1/3 of a bag of dry concrete mix into each hole and backfill. The concrete will set up by absorbing moisture from the ground in just a few days.
- For gate posts, dig 3′ and install ½ bag of concrete into each hole.
- Be careful not to “test” the posts for at least a week.
- Nail the 2 x 4 horizontal runners in place, typically one on the top, one on the bottom and one in the middle for support.
- Nail the vertical boards in place as per the approved pattern.
- Install the post caps, typically black plastic. Other options are available.
- Install the lattice tops if desired.
- Build gates onsite by placing a board on the ground to give you a proper straight edge that shapes to the ground slope.
- Install a cedar “Z” support on the back of the gate so the gate is less likely to warp and bow.
- Install the gate hardware and test it to make sure it works properly.
- You may want a wire mesh to keep animals in (or out). It comes in galvanized, green or black.
- Our crews can install up to 300 linear feet of fence in a day, depending on the type of fence. We also clean up on a daily basis!
