How to Build a Fence Using Lattice

Mark the ground where you want to install the fence using powdered chalk. Push a flag along the chalk mark at 8-foot intervals to mark the spots for fence posts.

Remove a corner flag and set it aside. Dig a hole over the spot that measures one-third the length of the desired wood post. Tamp the base of the hole to firm the soil. Continue to remove the flags and dig holes along the fence line.

Mix concrete and water in a plastic bucket until a workable consistency. Pack a few inches of concrete over the base of a post hole. Stand a post upright in the hole, directly above the concrete.

Assign a helper to hold the post while you check its level to ensure it is plumb, or correct it before the concrete cures. Pour additional concrete into the hole until it is a few inches from the top. Hold the post for 15 minutes before installing the remaining posts along the fence line. Allow the concrete to cure.

Inspect the concrete after 48 hours to ensure it is dry. Pack dirt over the concrete in each hole until level with the soil line. Tamp the dirt to remove trapped air. Measure the distance between the inner edges of two adjacent posts, and cut two 2-by-4-inch boards to the exact measurement using a saw.

Measure 8 to 12 inches from the top of a corner post and mark the spot over the wood. Also mark the spot on the adjacent post. Measure 4 inches upward from the ground and mark the spots on the two posts.

Extend a length of 2-by-4-inch lumber over the two upper marks on the posts and hammer in place using two to three 16d nails. Also secure the other identical length of 2-by-4-inch lumber over the two lower marks on the posts.

Measure the vertical distance between the two horizontal rails and cut two identical lengths of 2-by-4-inch lumber to size. Position each length vertically along the inner edge of a post and secure with galvanized nails.

Assign a helper to hold the lattice panel up and against the 2-by-4-inch frame between the two posts. Hammer 10d nails to attach the upper, lower and two sides of the lattice sheet to the two vertical and two horizontal rails. Continue the process of attaching rails and securing lattice panels to the 8-foot sections until you complete the fence line.