A fence is a great way to protect your property and keep it looking beautiful. Before starting fence installation, it’s a good idea to check local zoning laws and homeowners association rules.
Once the permits are in hand, start digging post holes for your fence. It’s important to set posts accurately, taking into account the location of utility lines.
Choosing a Style
While the initial step of choosing a style for your fence can be daunting, it’s crucial to find a design that will complement your home’s architectural structure and meet the primary purposes of the fence. For example, a fence can enhance the aesthetic of your property, provide security and privacy, or serve as a boundary marker.
In addition to a preferred style, homeowners should familiarize themselves with the different options of material that can be used in fencing. Metals like wrought iron and aluminum offer enhanced strength, while wood offers a natural look that can complement multiple architectural styles. Vinyl and composite fences can also be a smart choice because of their low maintenance costs.
Finally, homeowners should review local zoning laws and HOA rules that can dictate the location and height of fences. Ignoring these regulations could result in fines or disputes with neighbors. HOAs may even have rules that specify the direction a fence faces.
Digging the Postholes
One of the most important and difficult parts of any fence installation project is digging the post holes. This process is often very time consuming and requires a lot of physical strength. Inexperienced do-it-yourselfers can injure themselves or damage their property if they are not careful.
A good rule of thumb is to dig the hole half as deep as the height of the fence. This will help the posts stand straight and sturdy. Some fence contractors will pour concrete into the holes after they are dug to keep them stable.
Before you start digging your holes it is best to contact a local utility company to have them mark any buried cables or hazards. This will save you a great deal of time and frustration in the long run. Once the holes are dug they must be thoroughly inspected and cleaned to ensure that the posts will fit them snugly with no wiggle room.
Attaching the Panels
Once the posts are in place and the concrete has set, you can begin erecting fence panels. These can be pre-fabricated, or made from boards and rails. Most panel fences are 6 ft or 8 ft long, depending on the material.
Before starting, make sure the area where the fence will be constructed is clear. Stretch a tape measure and mark the line you will use for your fence. Then divide that length by the width of each panel to find how many panels you need.
Begin installing the fence panels at one end of the yard, using a wooden prop to hold the post up as you work. As you finish one panel, move the prop to the next post and repeat the process. Keep checking each panel with a line level to ensure it’s straight.
Supporting the Crossbeams
Before you start building your fence, it’s important to iron out a few details. For example, knowing exactly where your property lines are is crucial, as this will determine how many posts you need and where they should be located. A land surveyor can help you pinpoint these locations.
Spacing your fence posts is also important, as this will ensure stability and prevent the structure from sagging over time. Ideally, fence posts should be 8 feet apart.
Lastly, you’ll need to decide what kind of materials you’re going to use for your fence. Wood is a classic choice, but it requires regular maintenance. Metal — both industrial chain link and wrought iron — is more durable but can be expensive. Vinyl and composite materials are more costly upfront, but they require less maintenance over the long term. When it comes to the actual construction, don’t forget to contact JULIE before digging to have utility lines marked for free by qualified professionals.