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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. |
