Basic Board Fence.pdf

BASIC BOARD FENCE

Instructions

1) Prepare and Set the Posts

Coat the ends of each post with a waterproof deck sealer (Fig. 1).

Dig holes for and install the corner posts first, setting them below the frost line

and on a 6-inch tamped bed of crushed rock or gravel so their end grain does

not sit in water.

Fig. 1

Next, stretch a taut mason's line between the corner posts to help locate the intermediate holes and posts; try to space them

evenly about 6 feet apart.

Gradually backfill each hole with soil and tamp every four inches. Then fill the area around the posts with a well-tamped mix

of earth and gravel or with concrete for extra strength at corners and gate openings. Check for plumb.

2) Mark the Lower Fence Rail Position on the Posts

Establish a level for the lower rail at least a few inches above the ground and, on

each post, mark placement for the top and bottom edges of the lower rail. (Fig.

Fig. 2

3) Cut the Posts to Accept the Lower Rail

Between the marks, make several kerf cuts 1-1/2 inches deep with a circular

saw. Chisel out each post to accept the rail. (Fig. 3)

Fig. 3

4) Join the Lower Rails at Corners

At the corners, inset intersecting rails and screw them in place (after predrilling to

avoid splits) with galvanized deck screws. (Fig. 4)

Fig. 4

5) Affix an End Post to the House, If Necessary

If your fence will meet the house, fasten an end post to your home's siding. Make sure the

post is plumb; you may need to insert spacers or shims if the siding is irregular or slanted.

(Fig. 5)

Fig. 5

6) Adjoin the Upper Rails

Center the joint between upper rails in the post notches, then predrill the rails

before screwing them to the posts. (Fig. 6)

Fig. 6

7) Install the Pickets

Cut a 1/2-inch spacer to simplify installation of the pickets. Periodically check for

plumb as you work along the rails. (Fig. 7)

Fig. 7

Fig. 8