What Do I Need to Put a Fence Around My Yard?

Tools

• Fence building doesn't require an extensive list of tools. To dig the post holes, you'll need a post hole digger, which is like a giant pair of tongs that makes digging the post holes more efficient than using a shovel. You'll need a saw -- power or hand -- to trim boards and cut cross beams. A drill makes putting in screws a cinch. And a tape measure helps you space things properly. A level keeps everything straight.

Hardware

• Metal brackets attach to the inside face of your fence posts. One end of the bracket is open and supports the crossbeams of your fence. For each crossbeam you will need two brackets. Metal screws secure your brackets to the fence posts, the crossbeams to the brackets and fence boards to the crossbeams. Choose screws that are at least twice as long as your fence boards are thick. Nails will not hold your fence pieces securely.

Fencing

• Fencing includes posts, crossbeams and fence boards or pickets, depending on what style of fence you're building. A fence post is a 12-foot long piece of lumber called a 4-by-4. To increase the longevity of your fence, use treated lumber or cedar for fence posts. You'll need two 2-by-4 crossbeams between every two posts. The number of fence boards or pickets you'll need depends on how you design your fence. Cedar fence boards and crossbeams will be most resistant to rot. You can also choose to use wood alternatives such as composite materials or vinyl.

Miscellaneous

• To set your fence posts, you'll need to purchase dry cement. If you don't have access to a cement mixer, the cement can be mixed in a wheelbarrow with a hoe or shovel. Wood stakes help keep a post level while the cement sets. Hardware stores also sell finial caps to give your fence posts an attractive finished look. These also reduce rot by keeping rain from seeping into your posts. If you'd like to paint or stain your fence, you'll need paint or stain and brushes.