The entire fence-building process, albeit somewhat complicated, is very fascinating. Depending on your tools, skills, and budget, you can choose to do it yourself or get help with it. Today, we’re going to walk you through the fence-building process, the types of fences to consider, and when to ask for help and call a professional to build your fence.

Types of Fences to Consider

The three main types of fences are:

• Chain link
• Picket
• Privacy

Chain link is a type of metal fence, made from galvanized steel wire, woven into a diamond-shaped pattern. They’re often used as security fences or in outdoor areas.

A picket fence is one of the most popular styles and it’s composed of vertical boards, spaced evenly on horizontal fence rails. They can be made from wood or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

A privacy fence has a certain height and is made of materials that obscure onlookers’ views of a property. In addition to providing privacy, they can also add a decorative element to the area and can be made of stone, concrete, brick, vinyl, or wood.

The Fence-Building Process

Before you go into fence-building, you should first check local codes and guidelines put out by the homeowners association. These might influence the fence style, size, placement, and post-hole requirements.

You should also be certain of your property lines and boundaries and check whether you need a permit to build. If possible, discuss any fence ideas with your neighbours to avoid property disputes.

Then, determine a layout that allows you to use full pickets and corners. During the preparation stage, you should also draw a plan for your fence, noting post and gate locations. Finally, consider the materials and the hardware you’re using. 

Planning the Layout

Start by determining the fence’s purpose: privacy, security, boundary definition, pet enclosure, or decorative purposes. That will help guide your design and material choices, aligning the fence with other home improvement projects. Understanding your property’s size and location is crucial. 

Assess dimensions and consider factors like ground level, which impact design decisions and prevent costly adjustments. Check for utility lines and permitted fence heights, as many jurisdictions require building permits. Thorough planning ensures your fence meets all needs and complies with local rules.

Measuring and Marking the Posts

Measure and mark the posts for your fence project with precision to ensure a solid foundation. You can start by measuring the fence length with a tape measure, keeping at least 30 centimetres from trees or obstacles. 

Then, mark post locations, considering the optimal distances for stability, typically 6-8 feet apart. However, keep in mind that heavy materials might need closer spacing. Use string lines or spray paint for accuracy. 

Once you’ve planned and marked everything, gather all necessary supplies, including posts, rails, panels, screws, and tools like a post-hole digger or circular saw. 

Digging the Post Holes

Digging post holes is crucial for building a sturdy fence. First, prepare by wearing safety gear like gloves and a hard hat. Clear any large roots that could destabilize the posts and locate underground utilities to avoid damage. 

Once that’s done, use a post-hole digger or power auger to dig the holes, ensuring they are deep enough to support the fence. Typically, the depth should be one-third to one-half of the fence height. 

Adjust the depth based on soil type; sandy soils may need deeper holes than loamy soils. Make the holes wider at the bottom to prevent tipping. Ensure all holes are uniform in depth and width for consistent fence installation.

Positioning the Posts

Learning how to build a fence that’s sturdy requires positioning posts in concrete for long-term stability. After digging the post holes to the correct depth and width, mix quick-drying cement with water until it reaches a thick paste-like consistency, following the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Place each post in its hole, ensuring they are plumb and level. Pour the concrete around the fence posts, tamping it down to eliminate air pockets, and fill to ground level. Allow the concrete to set, which usually takes 10 to 24 hours depending on weather conditions. Keep the concrete moist by covering it with plastic or a tarp to prevent rapid drying and cracking.

Marking and Attaching Rails

Marking and attaching rails to posts is crucial for a sturdy deck or fence. Begin by ensuring each post is straight using a square or level, utilizing batter boards or mason lines for precision. Mark slots for each rail section, choosing a drill bit size that matches your screws or lag bolts. Measure consistent distances between slots to maintain straight, evenly spaced rails.

Next, attach brackets to the posts, which will hold the rails. Ensure that the brackets are spaced evenly and securely fastened, using a spacer for accuracy.

Finally, attach the rails to the brackets. Start from the bottom rail, placing it into the brackets and tightening the screws to secure it. Continue this process up to the top rail, ensuring all rails are level and brackets are evenly spaced. Double-check that all screws are tightened for a secure fit.

Installing Panels or Pickets

Installing panels or pickets is where the fence-building process truly starts to take shape. Panels are large prefabricated pieces that offer uniformity, while pickets are individual boards ideal for a traditional look.

First, determine the placement for each panel or picket by measuring the distance between the rails and marking the posts at regular intervals, ensuring consistent spacing.

Next, position the first picket or panel, ensuring it is level and straight. Secure it to the rail with screws, making sure they are evenly spaced and driven straight. Repeat for each subsequent panel or picket, verifying each one is level and straight before fastening.

Ensure the panels or pickets are evenly spaced, and seams between panels are tight to prevent gaps. For pickets, adhere to the spacing requirements of your fence style and local building codes.

Sealing or Staining

Choose a wood sealer or stain that’s suitable for your fence type and desired appearance. If possible, try to find a product that’s readily available in case you need it for future touch-ups.

Clean the fence with a pressure washer or soap and water to remove dirt, debris, and mildew. If the fence surface is rough or splintered, sand it lightly with fine sandpaper. Then, use drop cloths to protect surrounding areas from drips or spills.

Using a brush or roller, apply the sealer or stain starting from the top of the fence and working downward. Ensure every surface and crevice is covered. Allow the sealer or stain to dry completely, which may take several hours depending on the product and weather.

Getting Help With Fence-Building

Fence-building is a time-consuming project that requires many tools, materials, and a comprehensive set of skills. To ensure your new fence is up to code, within your property boundaries, and lasts you years to come – call Upper Deck Pro. 

At Upper Deck Construction & Consulting, our team boasts extensive expertise in building fences and decks, landscape construction, as well as basement renovations, and commercial development.

We can offer you a variety of materials and types to choose from and ensure your fence fits seamlessly into your backyard. Get your estimate today!