A home without a fence seems too open and not as homey. A home with an old fence that’s falling apart seems unkept. So, no matter which one of these two situations you’re in, it’s time to install a new fence.
And if installed correctly, your new fence can transform your home in so many ways. With so many materials available to choose from, you can create any style imaginable. So, what are you waiting for?
Not sure how to install a fence? That’s not a problem! We’re here to help you along the way.
Continue reading below for our guide on everything you should know and do when installing a new fence!
Knowing When It’s Time
The first thing you should know is how to tell when it’s time. This step is only needed for those with a preexisting fence. If you don’t already have a fence in place, then continue on to the next step.
A good tip to follow is that if 20% or more of your old fence needs repairs, then it might be more beneficial to replace it. In other circumstances, although it might be cheaper to repair a fence, it’s very time consuming and might even take long then removing it and installing a new one.
The last way that you should know it’s time to replace a fence is when you’re ready for a different material. Don’t feel tied down to your old wooden fence if a new aluminum one would match your home better. Learn more now and make the switch!
Choosing the Right Material
The next step is to choose the right material. So, how do you know what material is the right material? First, you should know all of the fence material options available to you.
You should then decide on which one you like best and which one compliments your home the best.
Wood
Wood fences added charm and warmth to a home. You’ll get more of a cottage feel with this material. Wood fences can be a lot of work, but if properly maintained, they’ll last you for around 20 years.
Vinyl
Vinyl fences add much beauty to a home. You’ll get more of a clean feel with this material. Vinyl fences require little to no maintenance and come in several different styles.
Chain Link
Chain link fences add optimal protection for pets and children in your home. You’ll get more of a plain feel with this fence, but you can add vines or ivy to give it more aesthetics. Chain link fences require little maintenance and are cheaper than other materials.
Aluminum
Aluminum fences add customization and attractiveness to your home. You’ll get more of a customized feel because you can paint them any color you’d like. They’re easy to clean and resist rust well.
Greenery
Another option that you have is greenery fences, which add sustainability to your home. You’ll get more of a natural feel with this fence, but it’s more of a barrier than an actual fence. Made from shrubs, hedges, evergreens, or trees, a greenery fence brings charm and beauty to your home.
Planning Ahead
Once you choose your material, you’ll need to plan ahead for the installation. You’ll need to contact your local authorities to see if there are any codes to follow or permits to gather before installing the fence. If there are any limits on the fence, you’ll need to know them beforehand.
You’ll also need to know exactly where your property line is and how you want to position your fence. Plan ahead for where you want your gates placed and determine the amount of fencing you’ll need after all of your measurements. The last thing that you need to plan ahead for is the location of any utility pipes.
You won’t want to accidentally hit one of these when installing your new fence.
Taking the Measurements
Measure the entire length of the fence. Use spray paint and chalk lines as a guide. You should plan for a fence post to be installed every 6 to 8 feet. Whichever length you decide, just be sure to remain consistent.
For example, if you start placing post every 6 feet, be sure to keep it every 6 feet. Don’t install two posts 6 feet apart and another two 8 feet apart.
Positioning the Post and Attaching the Pannels
Now, grab yourself a post hole digger and dig a hole that’s about 33% as deep as the posts are tall. You’ll also need to add in a few more inches for gravel. And be sure to dig below the frost line if you’re located in a colder climate.
Then pour about 3 to 4 inches of gravel into the holes, which will allow for proper drainage. Now pour in 6 to 8 inches of concrete and position the posts in the middle of the holes. Be sure to level the concrete out and allow for it to dry and cure, which may take a couple of days.
Once the concrete sets, you can attach the panels. Be sure to grab your claw hammers or power drills to make this step as smooth as possible. And remember that if you’re installing a chain link, aluminum, or vinyl fence, use deck screws rather than nails.
Attaching pickets is just as easy to install as the pannels are. You’ll attach the pickets to the railings using your claw hammers or power drills.
Making the Final Touches
Now it’s time to make the final touches. If your posts require post caps, then now is the time to install them. Place the caps on the posts and tap them slightly with a rubber mallet to fit them into place.
After this is complete, you’ll then need to treat or stain the fence if it’s wood. This is your first step on your journey to properly maintaining your fence. Other than that, you’re good to go!
Learning How to Install a Fence Is Easy!
If you weren’t sure how to install a fence before, we hope you do now. Learning how to do it is easy when you follow our guide!
Interested in more DIY topics? Keep checking back with us frequently for more!
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