DIY Residential Fences and Gates

Fences define spaces and separate functions. They mark boundaries of a property. They divide gardens and play areas from residential yards. There are three basic kinds of residential fence: decorative, security and privacy. The styles may overlap, so a security or privacy fence can also be attractive. Decorative fences usually are shorter, made of wood and often painted. Security fences frequently are metal, chain link or wrought iron, used to prevent intrusions or restrain pets or children. Privacy fences may be of any material but tall enough to screen an area from outside view.

Tape measure
Wood stakes
Builder's twine
Post-hole digger
Concrete
Fencing material (varies)

Instructions

- 1
  Define the area to be fenced. Measure the dimensions with a tape measure to determine material needed. Check for any buried utility lines, water pipes, telephone wires and such. Mark the property line exactly if it is a boundary fence between two properties; it is a good idea to notify the neighboring owner of fence plans. Make sure there are no building codes or residential regulations to affect the fence plans; some communities and residential areas have restrictions on fence installations.
- 2
  Select a fence type and material. Wood offers the most options for any kind of fence, from a painted front yard picket fence, to post-and-rail or split-rail, to 8-foot board or stockade privacy. Chain link is suitable for maximum security and efficiency; slats or ribbons can be added to make it more decorative. Consider vinyl as an alternative to wood; it is cheap, easy to install and resists rot and insects. Buy wrought iron sections for an ornamental fence that also can be secure.
- 3
  Mark the fence lines with wood stakes and builder's twine, and identify post locations. Dig post holes with a post-hole digger, typically 8 feet apart. Set the posts one-third of the final depth. For instance, put 2 feet of a 6-foot post in the ground for a 4-foot fence, regardless of fence material. Secure the posts with concrete, either poured wet into the hole around the posts or dumped in dry and dampened with water to firm it. Set posts for gates, spaced to the dimensions of the gate; gate posts will often be larger, but follow directions for the type of fence and gate being used.
- 4
  Buy or build appropriate gates. Make at least one gate wide enough for a wheelbarrow or other yard implements to pass through comfortably. Chain link, wrought iron or vinyl gates typically must be bought. Make wood gates to match the fence material, building rectangular frames and covering them with fence panels; these can be the same height as the fence or shorter, depending on the area fenced and its use and personal design preference. Use latches with locking options; many wrought iron fences have electric gates that slide open.

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