How to Prepare Your Yard for Fence Installation
It doesn't matter if you are creating a fence to protect your family or privacy it's important to be aware of the basics before you start. It is also important to know the guidelines of your community and setback requirements.
Depending on the location, you may need to obtain a permit prior installing your fence. This is especially the case if you live in an area with uneven or uneven terrain.
Preparation
Before you begin the fence installation You must ensure that the yard is clear and ready for materials. This will help the process flow more quickly and smoothly.
Explore the entire fence line and take away any stray rocks, logs, or other personal items that may hinder construction. This will allow you determine any major slopes in your ground. This could affect the number of fence panels you require.
You'll have to find your property lines (also known as pins) in order to avoid disputes with neighbors and local authorities. install fence near me may need to go over your plat map or contact an experienced surveyor for assistance in this step.
Check with your utility company to get locate reports for any underground pipes that run near the fence area. This will allow your contractor to avoid any accidents and prevent the installation crew from stepping into any electrical or water lines that could damage them.
Cleaning out any decorations or moving lawn furniture is another important part of preparation. This will help the job go faster and keep your fence installers from coming across any stray objects or being damaged accidentally.
It's also recommended to move objects that need to be out of the way, such as flowers, toys for children or other fixed structures. This will make the job easier and your fence installation team will be able work more efficiently.
The next step is to mark the fence line using stakes and string. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings with your neighbors and provide peace of mind that the fence is built in the correct spot.
Posts
Fence posts are a crucial element of any fence. They are used to anchor the fence, hold the tension wires and create a structural base. They can be made from metal or wood.
Consider the terrain they will cover when choosing the posts you choose. Posts with a diameter of about 3 1/2 inches, or six by sixes, are typical for chain link and privacy fences; posts that are slightly smaller, such as four-by-fours, are best for wrought-iron or vinyl fencing.
The most labor-intensive aspect of a fence construction project is putting up fence posts. It could take a few minutes to dig a post hole, another few minutes to mix concrete and pour it into the hole, and then about a minute to place and plumb the post.
For digging the holes, you'll need either an auger or a post hole drill. The holes should be three times the width and one-third of the length of the post.
Add gravel to each hole: Some experts suggest placing at least 6 inches of dirt in the bottom of each hole. This will help with drainage and stop rotting.
If you're using soil, mix in a little gravel to help it pack firmly around the posts. It's also a good idea to use gravel as a base for gate posts and corner posts.
Set your posts in the ground: If you're planning to install a fence made of wood, begin with straight posts that are at a minimum straight and arrow-straight to prevent sags or cracks. A fence that is bent or warped will not only appear unattractive, but also cause it to fail.
When your fence is finished then you can safeguard your fence as well as your posts with the help of a sealer. A coating will ensure that the wood will retain its natural color and resist water damage.
Rails
Split rail fencing is a sturdy low-maintenance method to keep animals or livestock in a certain area. It can also be used to regulate wildlife and prevent predators from entering your yard.
A typical split rail fence is made up of posts with slots cut into them, and rails strung between them. These rails may be between 2 and 5 inches in quantity and are constructed of spruce, cedar or treated wood.
To start the install begin by digging a series of post holes that are around 1/3 of the length of the post you'll be installing (for example, a 6-foot post should have two holes). The post should be vertical when you set it in the ground . 6 inches of dirt should be added to the bottom of each hole to help with the drainage of water and also to prevent wood decay.
Then, brace the posts by using a 2-foot x 4 foot board and stakes. After it has been dumped, backfill it with dirt. This will allow the posts to hold their shape, and also prevent the fence from moving.
Once you are satisfied with the post's height you can insert the rails in the holes of the post. The rails should be firmly inserted into the holes until they're clear of the post in front, and then repeat the process until the rails are installed.
The final step of the install is to secure each rail to the fence posts with rust-free fasteners or galvanized fence brackets. Galvanized nails are also an alternative. Galvanized fasteners are not rusty and will look beautiful for many years.
Pickets
A fence made of pickets is an attractive addition to your garden and increases the curb appeal of your house. They are also easy to maintain and cost less than other types of fences, especially if opt for vinyl over wood.
Pickets come in various designs and styles. They can be used as a way to add color or design elements on your fence. Pickets are stained or painted and are available in a variety options, including cedar and pressure treated timber.
The spacing between the pickets is another variable that can be adjusted to meet your preferences and needs. The amount of space between each picket may influence privacy, visibility and the ease of use.
To determine the ideal space, you need to take some measurements of the fence, including the height and how many pickets are expected to be within it. In general, you should ensure that there's space between each picket less than four inches to avoid injuries or accidents to small children who might attempt to get their heads through.
Once you've determined how much space you'll need, start digging post holes that are six feet to eight feet apart. Concrete should be poured in these holes to ensure that they can hold the posts and the weight of the fence.
Then place the posts into the holes, making sure they are level and straight. Then, fasten a string line between each post to guide the placement of each post.
Connecting the rails and pickets to your fence is the final step. This is a straightforward process that takes just about a minute for each picket. But, it is crucial to follow the steps properly to ensure that your fence looks great.
Hardware
It isn't a matter of whether you are building a fence to provide privacy or security it's important to have the appropriate equipment and tools. These tools can help make the installation process faster, easier, and more effectively.
A tape measure, for example is an excellent tool to keep on hand to help with your project. This will allow you to measure the area you'd like to work on accurately before you begin cutting.
Another tool that is essential to have on hand is a circular saw. This will let you cut through the materials that you need for your project with ease. A chainsaw is an excellent tool to use to trim the braces that you'll require to install your fence.
It's always beneficial to have wire cutters available. These are affordable and are available at any hardware store.
It is important to have a crimping tool in the event you choose to install wire fencing. This will allow you to set up the fencing.
It is also recommended to have a post hole auger that will permit you to create the fence posts in a quick and precise method. This tool will ensure that every post is equally wide and deep so that the entire fence can be constructed in a uniform manner.
A fence is an attractive addition to any home and can be used for both decorative and functional reasons. It can define your yard, increase the value of your property, and ensure that your family is safe. Fences can also be used to safeguard your garden from animals as well as other dangers. It is important to choose the best material for your requirements.