Tips for Building a Solid Board Fence

Before You Begin

• Before starting a do-it-yourself wood fence, it is necessary to put in a bit of research. Some neighborhoods, especially deed-restricted subdivisions, may have limits on the height of the fence or may not allow fencing at all. A building permit may be necessary. Consult with the area's zoning board before plotting out your fence. It is also necessary to find the exact property lines dividing your property from the adjoining yards. If the lines are not clear, a surveyor may be needed to plot the exact location.

Choosing the Wood

• When selecting wood for the fence, there are several things to consider. One of the first is cost. Each type of wood, whether redwood or pine, come in grades. Both cedar and redwood come in high grades for those with a large budget. If your budget is limited, consider a lower grade of either cedar or redwood. Pressure-treated softwoods are durable and affordable. The softer wood selections will be easier to nail and cut. Consult with a professional for the best posts to use with your plank selection.

Hardware

• When choosing the hardware to hold the fence together, it is important to use durable materials. Galvanized or stainless steel nails and brackets deter rust. If choosing to use brackets, the size of the posts and rails plays a large role. The brackets should be half the width of the post or smaller to allow for multiple board attachments. Nails that are too long will go through the rails entirely while ones too short may not hold the fence securely. For example, for 3/4-inch boards, 1 1/2-inch nails will secure without going out the other side.

Design

• There are a few basic design tips that can assist in making the project a success if you're not following a pattern. Set the fence posts 6 to 8 feet apart. When setting, bury the posts at least one third of their overall length. For example, if the intended height of the fence is 6 feet, use 9-foot posts and bury 3 feet. Secure each post with gravel or concrete to keep it stable. Dig out the post holes to twice the width of the post and fill in with the selected material. Use horizontal cross bars every 3 to 4 feet to attach the vertical boards securely.