Checklist for a DIY Fence Project

Posts and Footings

• 1

  Measure each run of fencing with a measuring tape. Typically, a garden fence includes a continuous run across the front of the property, and two sides that return to the building or adjoin with an existing fence. Property line fences include runs at each side of the property, and a continuous run across the back of the property. Add the total lineal footage of all runs and note this measurement on a clipboard or in a notebook.

• 2

  Divide the total lineal footage of fence by eight, to establish the number of posts and footings that are installed at 8-foot increments. Include two additional posts and footings for each gate.

• 3

  Establish the length of the individual 4-by-4-inch posts for a garden fence or property line fence by referring to the height of the fence; add 24 inches for the portion of the posts that installs below grade in the footings. Posts for a 36-inch-high garden fence are 60 inches long. Posts for a standard 72-inch-high property line fence are 96 inches long.

• 4

  List the number of posts, the length, and the type of material, such as Redwood or Douglas Fir. Include two bags of concrete post mix for each footing.

Fencing Materials

• 5

  Establish the total lineal footage of the upper and lower horizontal rails by doubling the total lineal footage of fence and gates. The rails install between the posts, and the fencing material attaches against the outer face of the rails. Typically, rails are 8-foot lengths of 2-by-4-inch lumber that’s similar to the lumber for the posts.

• 6

  Multiply the total lineal footage of the fence and gates by the height of the fence, such as 36 or 72 inches, to establish the square footage of fencing material. Divide this number by two when spaced pickets are used.

• 7

  List the fencing and gate materials by square footage and the type of lumber, such as Redwood or Cedar. Fencing is available in individual pieces or in prefabricated sections that you find at home centers.

Fasteners and Hardware

• 8

  Include 2-inch wood screws or galvanized box nails for individual pickets or fencing panels, based on the total lineal footage of the rails. Pickets and panels require two fasteners at the upper rail and two at the lower rail. Fasteners are sold in boxes that range from 100 to 1,000 each. Exclude these when installing prefabricated sections. Include eight, 10-penny galvanized box nails to attach each pair of rails between the posts.

• 9

  List a pair of 4-inch T-strap hinges for each 36-inch-high garden gate, and 8-inch T-strap hinges for a 72-inch-high gate. Include 2-inch wood screws for each of the machined holes in the straps and butts of the hinges.

• 10

  Include a gate latch and return spring that suits your design. Gate hardware is available in natural galvanized finish and flat black. You have the option of using a stranded-steel wire and coupler as a diagonal gate brace, or including an additional length of rail material that you cut as a diagonal brace.

Equipment and Tools

• 11

  Establish the line of the fence with 24-inch-long wood stakes and a nylon string line. Drive the stakes with a steel mallet or heavy framing hammer, and attach the line 6 inches above grade. Use a steel rake or shovel to clear any brush or debris along the proposed fence line.

• 12

  Start from one end of a run and drive additional stakes at 8-foot intervals, along the string line, to mark the center of each post footing. Include stakes for gate posts that are spaced according to your design, such as a 36- or 48-inch-wide gate.

• 13

  Dig 24-inch-deep, 8-inch-diameter footings with a manual or gasoline-powered post hole tool. In hard soil, use a digging bar to loosen the soil as you go.

• 14

  Mix the concrete for the footings in a mixing tub with a square-point shovel. Add water to the mix from a 5-gallon bucket instead of a hose. Depending on the proximity of the footings to the mixing area, haul the mixed concrete to the footings in a 5-gallon bucket or a wheelbarrow. Plumb each post with a 4-foot level.

• 15

  Cut the upper and lower horizontal rails to length with a circular saw. Toenail the ends of the rails to the posts with a framing hammer. String additional lines along a run as guides for a consistent appearance.

• 16

  Attach each picket or fencing panel to the rails with wood screws and a power drill and screw-tip attachment. Drive galvanized box nails with a smooth-face hammer to avoid marring the face of the fencing.

• 17

  Calculate the amount of stain or paint needed, based on the square footage of fencing material. Double the amount to stain or paint both sides of the fence. Apply the stain or paint from a bucket with rollers or a paint sprayer. Include drop cloths to protect walkways and landscaping.