From increasing privacy to enhancing the landscape, fences are an important feature on many properties. Whether for general maintenance or new installations, homeowners often have to decide between taking a DIY approach to their residential fencing or working with an experienced fencing company like Orange Fence. In addition to questions about repairs, the Orange Fence team often fields questions about how to build and install wooden fences, as well as other types of fences. Our customers often wonder about the following:
- How to build a wood fence
- How to install a wooden fence
- How to maintain a wood fence
- The pros and cons of DIY v. professional fence installation
Keep reading to learn more about how to build a wood fence and answers to other common questions!
How to Build a Wood Fence
The process of building a wood fence is often similar to that of building other types of fences. However, protection and continued maintenance of wood fences require additional consideration and effort. There’s a lot to know about how to build a fence and many factors that impact this process, such as the unique characteristics of each property. Therefore, this brief overview in no way covers all of the necessary steps, considerations, etc. However, to help you anticipate the scope of such a project, a few of the key parts of how to build a wood fence are listed here:
- Complete the necessary preparation for this project, such as navigating local codes, permits and confirming the property line. Also, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials prior to starting this project. For example, you’ll want to have a tape measure and shovel or post-hole digger, as well as fence parts, including any gates.
- Do the required measuring according to the specifics of your fence plan and mark where posts, rails, gates and other fence components will go. It’s helpful to repeat the measuring process to confirm an accurate layout.
- Dig post holes and set the posts after checking that each one is plumb and aligned. Wait for the curing to conclude prior to moving on to other steps in how to build a wood fence.
- Now, attach the rails, then the pickets or panels. If a gate was part of your plan, you’ll attach it last and then complete any finishing touches.
If you are using premade panels or are doing a different style of fence, the process may vary. For a visual overview of a fence installation project, check out these Catalyst™ Fence Solution DIY Videos.
Other Common Questions about How to Install a Wooden Fence and Maintain It
Aside from the building process itself, homeowners often have other questions when thinking about how to install and maintain a wooden fence. Several common inquiries are listed below:
What type of wood should I use?
In thinking about how to build a wood fence, there are several types of wood to choose from. Cedar and pine are popular choices. Both are known for being fairly affordable. Cedar by its nature and pine if treated offer greater resistance to damage by insects and weather.
What do I need to know about fence post depth and spacing?
In addition to navigating property and utility lines, many factors impact post depth and spacing considerations. From fence height and soil type to fence material and environmental conditions, a stable fence requires thoughtful evaluation of the specifics of your property and wood fence. One of the most challenging parts of how to install a wooden fence is the alignment and setting of posts.
Can I install a wooden fence of any height?
Regulations may vary between locations or based on the rules of a community, such as an HOA. According to the overview of fence building laws provided by The Spruce, six feet is often the maximum height with a few exceptions that require the fence to be shorter, such as if the fence will interfere with seeing traffic. The intended purpose of the wood fence will also impact choice of height and other design considerations.
Should I install a wooden fence myself?
Homeowners may choose to take a DIY approach to installing a wooden fence. To support these efforts, Orange Fence offers DIY fencing supplies as well as advice. However, it’s important to understand that doing this project yourself means you have to deal with considerations such as permits, regulations and code compliance, not to mention forgoing any sort of warranty on the work. You’ll also need to ensure that you have the right materials, tools and equipment, not to mention the time and expertise for such a project. If you decide upon a professional wood fence installation, Orange Fence offers that service too!
What maintenance does a wood fence need?
Maintaining a wood fence often starts during the installation process. For example, it’s wise to apply sealants or protective paint as part of the finishing touches for this project in order to immediately begin protecting your fence. This guide to wood fence maintenance further explores how to clean your wood fence and other routine wood fence maintenance tips.
Whether you are interested in how to build a wood fence on your own or are looking for a professional fencing company in CT, Orange Fence is here to assist you. We offer DIY fencing supplies, as well as residential and commercial installations. As the oldest fencing company in Connecticut with over 95 years of experience, we currently serve many locations throughout Connecticut from towns in Hartford County to various communities in the southern part of the state, including Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport and New Haven. Contact us today for a free estimate!
