Do It Yourself: Cedar Fence Installation

Check with your local authorities or homeowner association about the appropriate height or other restrictions your area may have regarding the installation of fences.

Make a string line to mark the fence line of your cedar fence. Position pegs in the area where your fences will run. Then tie a string to the pegs, circling the whole perimeter of your fence area.

Measure and mark the places for the fence posts. Dig holes in all the post locations with a shovel and a pick axe. The holes should be around 12 inches wide and 20 inches deep. The depth of the hole would depend on your length of your posts.

Cover the bottom of the holes with gravel. Although cedar is known to be resistant to rot and decay, a gravel pillow beneath it will keep it dry from the wet soil.

Make a cement mix. Follow the instructions that came with the cement on how to make the mix.

Place a post in the hole. The post should be in a perfectly vertical position. Use a level to check if the post is straight. Ask an assistant to hold the post as you pour cement mix into the holes. Do not completely fill the hole with concrete. Leave a few inches where you can fill the area with soil.

Stake a wood post against the fence post to keep it straight as you wait for the concrete to harden. Repeat this step with the rest of your cedar fence posts. Make sure that all the posts are level. Let the cement harden overnight.

Attach the 2-by-4's to the cedar fence posts. These will be the rails of the fence. Mark the position of the top rail and the bottom rail on the posts with a pencil. The top rail should be 1 to 2 inches from the top of the post and the bottom rail should be 2 inches from the ground. You can also add a third rail between the top and bottom rails. It should be positioned 12 inches below the top rail.

Check if the rails are perfectly horizontal with a level. Mount the rails to the posts with a hammer and finishing nails.

Attach the 1-by-6 inch boards to your fence rails. The boards should be positioned vertically between the top and bottom rails. They should also be at least 1 inch apart. Hammer in the boards to mount it to the rails. Never place the boards too close to the ground as they will rot and decay. Always make sure that the top of the boards are completely level and straight. Use sandpaper to make a perfect line.

Spray water sealer on the whole cedar fence to protect it and to get a more attractive finish. Remember to seal the fence every year to maintain the fresh and beautiful look of cedar.