Do you think you need privacy in your backyard and property? Well, it might be the time to install a privacy fence. Essentially a privacy fence is like a barrier that runs on the outside boundaries of a property or the yard to provide you privacy from the neighbors or the unknown passers.
In this article, we will explore tips on how to build a privacy fence and make your project oddly satisfying.
But what will I need To Build A Privacy Fence
The tools and materials you will need are the following:
- Drill and screws
- Nails
- Batter boards and strings
- Shovel
- Concrete mix
- Wood sealant, paint, and stains
Steps To Make Sure Privacy Fence Gives Privacy And Convenience!
Fence Height
Considering the height is essential as you do not want to build a short height that will give you no privacy or a very tall fence to ruin your views and take up the extra costs.
One of the easiest ways to determine the height can be having a helper walk around the perimeters with cardboard that would act like a makeshift fence and place it on the boundary and you can judge which height fence suits your needs.
Space Your Fence Accordingly
It is best to keep your fence 8ft apart or less to avoid it from sagging. Not only that but this distance will also give the fence the strength to stand up to winds and other outside factors. The best way to get the distance right is to mark holes 8ft apart from each other.
Permits and Regulations
Before you build you need to check whether you can build a fence in your area or not, because putting it up and then being taken down is not worth the hassle.
Since fences are prominent you should take a permit to avoid a fine. A permit will have everything highlighted so you can build accordingly. Some communities also require you to use specific colors and materials and sometimes you need to provide a sketch for your fence to gain approval.
Find Property Lines Before Building
Use your plot plan to mark your points as not all properties are square and rectangle. The depth of the holes that you dig will depend on what is best suited to your area. If your area is usually cold and experiences deep freezes it is best to dig holes that are 42 inches deep. If not that then 24 inches deep should be just fine.
Plan Fence Gates
Have you ever experienced a house where the gates were too small or not at a user-friendly position? Then you must know how much of a hassle that is.
It is key to think about the access to your yards and how many doors you would want. If you have neighbors to visit you would like access from both sides. If you want to go to the park behind then add a door according to that.
For people, a 3ft wide gate should be enough but for passing heavy equipment then 4ft to 6ft is essential to be easily able to get in.
Have a Removable Fence Panel
A removable fence will allow you to be able to pass through big and heavy things if ever need be. Being a contractor, we know how hard it is to get things through if there is not a removable fence often breaking our backs and damaging the fence.
Have a removable fence where there is easier access to the road or an alley.
Removable panels can be made by screwing the rails adjacently or small joist hangers or pockets usually made from iron will be another convenient option.
Fence Designs
Now is the time to find the perfect balance between your personal choice, the regulations, and the materials.
Higher fences will give you privacy but also can ruin your views. Are you willing to choose privacy or a boring view that is a decision you will have to take. Lower fences tend to keep the costs low as well as give you the view but might not give you full privacy.
So, if you live in a street-facing area then maybe a tall fence that has a nice design would be the option for you as it will serve both the purposes of privacy and aesthetics.
Install the Fence
After digging the holes and all it is time to set the fence posts right into position. Use the concrete mix make sure the posts are upright and aligned properly and let them set.
Attach The Fence Rails
After the fence is in position now you will have to use a drill and screws to attach them.
Allow The Materials to Dry
After you are done with your installation it is best to give it a month or so for the materials to set in and dry completely.
Finish Your Fence
This comes as the last step. You can paint, stain, and refinish the fence. To give it that aesthetic look and use sealants to give it prevention.
To conclude
The key to building a fence is smart planning to help you do the project in an organized manner as well as attain all the permits and follow the regulations that need to be followed. The materials are also fairly basic and it is best to have them beforehand to make sure you get a smooth installation procedure. It is vital to make sure that your fence gives you privacy as well as ease so in case if you ever have to take in large materials or equipment, you do not struggle due to the entrance being too small and low or having no access to the yards.