While chain link fences are use in some landscapes, most people prefer
to make use of wooden fences when building an attractive landscape. This
is because wood is a rather versatile material that can be made to look
a variety of ways. Installing your own wood fence requires time and energy,
but it is often worth it as you can have privacy without detracting from
the look of your landscape. Even if you do not build a very tall fence,
a wood fence around your yard can prevent unwanted animals (like dogs) from
getting into your yard. But before you begin, there are a few things to
know about preparing to build wooden fences.
It is important to know the basic elements of the wooden fence before
you get started. These are the elements that almost every fence consists
of, and are almost universally necessary to build an attractive and effective
fence. You will need posts. These are vertical elements that are placed
in the ground. They rise above the ground, of course, and properly set
posts are essential for keeping all of the other components in place.
Some posts extend above the top of the fence for decorative purposes
and others are only as high as the fence itself. Another important element
of support is the rail. Rails act as spanners, connect the posts. They
run parallel to the ground and serve as the horizontal support elements.
Almost every fence style makes use of top and bottom rails, and some
also utilize middle rails. Finally, panels are required for the successful
fence. Sometimes the panels are referred to as boards. There are open
fence styles that make no use of panels, but panels of latticework or
even just straight boards are the main elements that provide privacy.
Next, you should prepare to install your wood fence. If you would like
your installation to go smoothly, you should plan and prepare so that
everything is in order before you begin. It is virtually impossible to
complete a landscape project without any hiccups, but with a little advance
planning you should be able to take care of things in a relatively smooth
manner. The first thing you need to do is check with your local zoning
or building board to find out the height or design restrictions. Additionally,
chances are that you will need a building permit before you begin. You
also want to make sure that the fence you build will be within the borders
of your own property. If you need to have a survey beforehand to satisfy
the neighbors, do so, as this can save you legal fees down the road if
the neighbor decides to sue. Another thing of paramount importance is
to find out from the local utility companies where the underground gas,
electric, and power lines are located. Additionally, check with the phone
and cable companies regarding possible underground lines they may have.
It can be dangerous to damage such lines, and if you do so, you are responsible
for the costs associated with repairing the damage.
Be sure that you have a plan for your fence, based upon the preparation
discussed above. Know where you are going to place your posts beforehand,
and have an idea of how high you want your fences. You should also have
an idea of how deep your postholes will be. If you have properly planned
your fence, then you will be able to complete it that much faster. Also,
make sure you have all of the necessary tools on hand. These tools include
a posthole auger, a shovel and a wheelbarrow (to mix concrete), a hammer
and a punch, a power saw, a level, mason’s line, and a carpenter’s
square. Many of these tools need not be purchased; it is possible to
rent them for a reasonable price (especially the posthole auger, which
many people do not own).
Once you have everything in place, you are ready to build a fence. Follow
the plan carefully, and try to stick to your budget. When you have everything
properly prepared beforehand, you will be surprised to realize how fast
the work goes, and how good your fence looks as part of your landscape.
