Building a fence around your property can dramatically enhance its aesthetics and privacy. Having built several fences over the years, we’ve gathered substantial experience.
For this home, intended as our long-term residence, we aimed to create a unique, visually appealing fence. Thankfully, we only needed to fence two sides since neighbors had already built fences on the remaining sides.
Why We Like This Recipe
- Clearly defined, structured process ensures efficiency.
- Unique layered picket design offers enhanced visual appeal.
- Detailed measuring and alignment techniques provide accuracy and stability.
- Sturdy gate construction methods prevent sagging and extend longevity.
What You Will Need
- String line
- Measuring tape
- Post hole digger/auger
- Sledgehammer
- Concrete
- Lumber (posts, rails, pickets, gate framing)
- Screws (Deckmate, Kreg screws)
- Kreg pocket jig
- Dewalt impact drivers
- Dewalt jigsaw and router
- Gate hardware (hinges and latch)
- Post caps
Step 1: Backyard Preparation
Spend a few days clearing your yard. We removed a large pine tree, significant ivy growth, regraded the area slightly, and battled resilient irises. Thorough prep ensures easier construction and better results.
Step 2: Installing Fence Posts
Begin by laying string lines to mark post positions, ensuring accuracy with the 3-4-5 rule for right angles. Calculate spacing between posts—approximately 6 feet is ideal—and mark post locations accordingly.
Step 3: Digging Post Holes
Using a post hole digger or auger, create holes at each marked location. Address obstacles like old concrete footings with a sledgehammer, ensuring all holes are clear and deep enough for secure post installation.
Step 4: Setting Posts
Insert each post, ensuring they are perfectly vertical (plumb). Stabilize and secure them with concrete, allowing ample drying time to guarantee structural integrity before attaching rails.
Step 5: Installing Rails
Attach rails flush with the backyard-facing side of each post using pocket screws and angled Deckmate screws for extra strength.
Top each fence section with an additional 2×4 “cap” rail to enhance visual aesthetics.
Step 6: Custom Picket Installation
Cut each picket individually to achieve a custom layered look.
Space the first layer of pickets approximately 3½ inches apart, ensuring each picket is level and securely fastened using Deckmate screws.
Step 7: Constructing the Gate Frame
Measure the exact distance between gate posts and build the gate frame accordingly, subtracting one inch for hinge and latch clearance. Use a Kreg pocket jig for sturdy joints, adding diagonal cross-members to prevent sagging.
Step 8: Attaching the Gate
Securely attach the completed gate frame using quality hinges and a reliable latch mechanism. Add matching pickets and a “cap” rail, seamlessly integrating the gate with the fence structure.
Step 9: Installing Post Caps
Cut each fence post 3 inches above the highest rail and securely attach decorative post caps. Adjust post height as necessary, adding trim if needed for uniformity and improved appearance.
Step 10: Creating Decorative Arches
Make an arch template using a jigsaw. Replicate this shape using a router with a guide bushing for consistency across all fence bays. Cut the gate arch separately with precision using the jigsaw.
Note: Always double-check measurements and alignments to ensure professional results.
Other Details Display
- Yard clearing and preparation
- Post hole digging and obstacles
- Precise post alignment and concrete setting
- Rail installation with pocket screws
- Custom layered picket design
- Gate framing and diagonal cross-bracing
- Decorative post caps and trim adjustments
- Uniform arches created with router templates
Summary
Following this detailed guide ensures you’ll confidently build a durable, striking fence, significantly enhancing your backyard’s beauty and privacy.
This plan is a contribution by [mullenshome]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.