The do-it-yourself product lines of many
fencing corporations have grown big in the last ten years, especially with the increase in home improvement shows and classes. Our fencing expert, Richard Novigrod, with ten years experience building fences, says before anyone decides to go solo they know what they're getting into.
"You should know that you're probably going to encounter rocky conditions, and you have to set your posts properly or else the fence is going to lean over. If you are going do it yourself, you need proper estimation of materials and proper designing of the fence. Another thing to consider is property lines. Make sure that you don't impose on someone else's property. Another tip might be to talk with your neighbor because many times you can split the cost of a shared fence line," Novigrod says.
According to the website, Diynetwork.com, if a homeowner decides to build his or her own fence, good post placement is a requirement. This is what distinguishes high quality fences from poorly made ones. If the posts are not in line, the entire fence will come out lopsided or tilted. You need to find out the exact location of your property lines and learn about any city codes that might affect you.
Next, you will want to measure the area that you will be fencing. Places stakes at the corners. Stretch a string between the stakes and use a level. Use spray paint or something similar to mark the locations for the posts. They should be about eight inches apart. Dig post holes at each of the marked areas. You can use a manual posthole digger if the ground is smooth. You can even use a power auger, if needed. It can save you a great deal of time and sweat if you have many holes to dig.
The measurement of the holes will be determined by the height and weight of your fence. A good rule idea is to make each hole as deep as one-third the length of the post. For safety, make sure you wear goggles and work gloves.
Once you get these details out of the way, you have overcome some of the hardest steps in building a fence. You can then move forward with the construction phase knowing you have a solid infrastructure.
In the end, Novigrod says proper planning is essential; without it you won't finish building your fence. If you have any questions, you can always contact a fencing contractor for some advice. Novigrod says one of the problems with first-time do it yourselfers is that they don't ask enough questions. Ask for help even when you think it's not that big of a deal. Oftentimes, the smallest details matter the most. The help is there if you need it. Take advantage of it.