How to Construct a Wood Fence
When deciding to build a wooden fence yourself, you want to make sure that you have all correct measurements prior to pricing your wood. Measurements can decrease or increase the cost of wood to complete the job. Be sure to measure both sides of an area; do not estimate that both sides are the same length, because that may not be the case.
Building a wooden fence will take lots of patience. The things that you will need in order to complete your task will be:
- Circular saw
- Screws and nails
- Drill
- Fencing slats or panels
- Caps for metal posts
- Level
- Concrete
- 2x4s
- Metal post brackets
- Decide on what type of wood you prefer to use. There are various woods used for fencing. Cedar wood is one of the stronger, more expensive types. Also, decide whether you want to purchase the wood that in already made panels. Lastly, decide whether you want to use nails or screws. Screws suck the wood together, whereas nails will eventually loosen out when the fence warps. Nails will require constant maintenance. If you choose to go with screws, be sure to purchase a coated screw, to avoid rusting.
- Start contacting lumber yards and get quotes on the material per foot. You can also decide whether you are willing to pick up material or have it delivered. There will be an additional charge associated with delivery.
- Tear down the old fence. Pull out the old posts, as well as the concrete.
- Determine how high you want the posts. Tie an end of string line on both ends, making sure that the string is tight. You can start by concreting your posts in. Use the same method with the 2x4s and when you are putting in the fencing slats. The string line ensures that the fence is level and even throughout.
- Cut the top of the post to where they are even with the string line; this is done easiest with a saw. Run the 2x4s and then start running your slats. You do not want the wood touching the ground, because of potential damage it may cause. Three quarters of an inch is a good enough distance from the ground. Cut the slats upside down, marking the bottom where the string line is touching the wood. The circular saw is used to cut the slat and then screw in the 2x4s.
This is the complete process, which can take time and is physically demanding.