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.
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