• Mon. Oct 7th, 2024

Fences are a great way to make your property look nice, keep pets and children inside, and deter crime. But installing a fence requires some planning and research.

STEP ONE: Measurements

When it comes to installing your fence, precision is critical. You want to be sure that each post is level and perfectly aligned with the rest of the fence. Taking the time to properly measure your yard can save you from costly mistakes down the road.

Use a tape measure and mark your perimeter in feet. (Tip: You can also use your carpenter’s level to ensure that each post is plumb.)

Next, use a string to run from each stake to the next and make sure it’s taut. If you’re not sure where your property line is, contact a surveyor or have a plat of survey drawn up.

Depending on the type of fencing you’re installing, you’ll likely need to place end posts. These are often bigger than line posts because they stand alone and support the last panel of fencing.

STEP TWO: Dig holes for the posts and secure them to the ground with wood screws or nails. The posts should be about 18 inches to 24 inches in diameter.

If your area gets a lot of rain, you may need to top off the hole with concrete to prevent water from seeping into the wood and rotting it. This is a good idea, especially if you’re using treated wood posts.

Once the holes are dug, pour 3 to 4 inches of gravel down the base of each hole for drainage. Then, tamp down the gravel to keep it in place.

It’s a good idea to call 811 before digging any holes, as utility lines can be buried deep in your yard. Your local utility company will help you determine the best location for your holes and can provide a list of utilities in your area.

You’ll also need to mark the perimeter of your property so you know how far back from your fence you should install it. This is often a strict guideline set by your township or HOA, and it’s a good idea to check with them before you start.

Then, contact your neighbors to discuss your plans and ask if they’re OK with you building a fence on their property. They may offer to split the costs of your project or give you permission to use a portion of their yard for the fence.

Step THREE: Attach the rails to the posts

Once you have the posts in place, it’s time to start constructing your fence. Run a bottom and top rail for fences up to four feet tall, and add a third rail in the middle for longer ones. For shorter fences, you can use a single rail in each corner.

Alternatively, you can use pickets instead of rails. However, if you do this, it’s important to run the pickets from a central location, such as between the two posts that hold the rails. If you do this, you’ll have a stronger fence overall and won’t need to stagger the joints like you would with rails. If you need professional fence installation services in Houston visit https://www.houstonfencesandgatescompany.com/.