Having a fence installed can improve your home’s security and privacy, keep children and pets contained, or even increase its curb appeal. However, fence installation is a complex task that requires the assistance of a professional. Contact Fence Installation Summerville SC now!
Before beginning, clear the area of obstructions like trees or structures and contact the local utility companies for information about buried wires.
Accurate measurements are critical when constructing your fence. While lax measurement habits may not be a big deal when wrapping paper or ingredients for a recipe, building past your property line or misreading the length of a piece of lumber could have serious consequences.
The first step is confirming your property’s boundary lines with either official property documents or a professional survey. This is essential to avoid disputes with neighbors and ensure compliance with local regulations regarding property line setbacks, fence height, and other specifics.
Next, you’ll need to map out your yard and determine how many fence panels you will need to cover the entire area. This can be done by placing stakes where the corner posts will go, then measuring around the perimeter using a tape measure (or even better, a laser measure). Make sure to note any trees or permanent obstructions that you can’t move and to account for slopes in your landscape. Finally, if you have any utility lines that will run through the area, make sure they are marked as well. Taking the time to do this now will help prevent expensive delays down the road.
Get Your Property Surveyed
A property survey determines the exact boundaries of your land. It can help you avoid encroaching on your neighbors’ land or violating local ordinances and is usually required before building a fence, as well as any other structure like a pool or garage. In addition, a survey can help you settle disputes with your neighbors about land lines and easements.
The type of materials you select for your fence will depend on the objective you are trying to achieve. For example, some materials are more aesthetically appealing than others, while some may require more maintenance. Also, it’s important to consider the climate in your area because some materials may not perform as well in certain conditions.
Another important consideration is the cost and durability of your chosen material. Some materials, such as wrought iron or aluminum, are more expensive upfront but require less maintenance over time. In contrast, wood fences need regular staining and sealing, while vinyl fences are nearly maintenance-free. Additionally, some fences have security features that can be useful in deterring intruders and children or pets from climbing.
Select the Materials
There is a wide array of fence materials to choose from, and many factors go into selecting the perfect one. Among the most important are your specific needs and budget, as well as the climate where you live. Some materials require more maintenance than others, and some may be subject to local restrictions or HOA regulations.
Choosing the right material will help ensure your new fence is structurally sound and attractive for years to come. Once you’ve settled on a material, it’s time to begin the actual installation process. During this stage, you’ll need to get your tools and supplies ready, including a post level, an auger or power drill to dig post holes, and a concrete mix for setting the posts.
Start by marking the perimeter of your yard with stakes or string to indicate where you plan to install the posts. Then, using a post level, make sure each post is perfectly vertical. If you’re installing wood posts, choose a durable variety that is resistant to rot and insects, such as pressure-treated cedar or aspen.
Next, dig the holes for your corner posts, end posts, and line posts. Make the holes deep enough to support the posts, which is typically one-third of the post height. Once the holes are dug, set the posts and use a level to check that they’re plumb. Then, fill the holes with concrete mix and tamp down to remove air pockets.
Install the Posts
Whether you choose to use wood panels or pickets, fence posts are an essential component of any structure. Installing them properly ensures a sturdy and secure fence that will stand the test of time.
With an assistant, set the first two fence posts along your planned route using string lines and a level. This will help you get them in a straight line so your finished fence will look nice and professional. To avoid having to move the posts later, make sure each post touches both strings, but leave about 1/8 inch between the top and bottom of each string.
Dig holes for the remaining fence posts with a manual post hole digger or auger. The standard rule is to bury about a third of the post length, but you’ll want to check with your local authorities for regulations. Also, the holes should be wider at the bottom than they are at the top to prevent the posts from tipping over.
While you’re digging, call 811 to find out the location of any underground utilities that could be damaged by your excavation. Then remove all rocks and debris from the area. If you’re setting the posts in concrete, prepare the mix and fill each hole. A good choice is Quikrete Fast-Setting Concrete Mix, which sets in less than an hour.
Attach the Rails
Once the posts are in and set, it’s time to start attaching the rails. If you choose to build your fence yourself instead of hiring a professional, this is an important step to consider carefully. You’ll need to do a lot of research and make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. It’s also critical to understand local regulations and double check your property lines. It’s much easier to install a fence correctly when you take the time to do it right.
Before you begin, you should sketch out a simple diagram of your project and the area it will cover. This will help you determine how many posts and rails you need. It will also help you visualize how your fence will look and identify any areas that may need special attention.
When you’re ready to begin, drive a stake into the ground a few feet past where you want each end or corner post. Then stretch a string line from the corner post to another one further down your property. Use a tape measure to mark the distance between each end stake and the string line so you know where to dig your post holes.
Install the Panels
For most people, fence panels are the best way to get a solid and attractive fence up quickly. These pre-fabricated sections come in pre-set sizes, usually 6 feet high and 8 feet wide. They are typically cheaper than building the same fence from individual pickets, but it’s important to ensure that they will fit properly on your property before buying.
Start by marking the line where you want your fence to go with stakes and string. This will help to make sure that your fence aligns with your property lines and doesn’t interfere with any underground utility lines. If you’re unsure, you can rent a cable location tool to find out where any buried pipes and wires are located.
Next, dig holes and prepare them for the posts by leveling and filling with concrete. It’s a good idea to slope the ground downwards, as this will direct rainwater away from the fence and minimise any potential damage or rot. When installing the fence posts, use timber props to hold them in position while you mix and pour the concrete. It’s also a good idea to add some form of diagonal bracing to each post to prevent it from sagging over time.
Install the Gates
Once the fence posts and rails are in place, it’s time to install the gates. This is when your fence begins to really take shape and adds a defining style that separates your property from the neighborhood.
Start by stretching a line across the location of your gate and sinking two hinge postsaone for each gate. These should be 7-foot posts that are treated all the way through and secured with creosote. They are then supported by a brace post that runs between them.
Next, drill holes through the hinge post and into both ends of the brace post. This will allow for a 12-inch galvanized spike to be driven through the holes and support the weight of the gate. Also, a length of strainer wireapulled tight by a strainerashould be attached to the first pair of posts on either side of the gate. This will balance out the downward pressure from the gate and outward pulling pressure from the fenceline.
After all of the work is done, your professional installer should sweep up any debris and clean the site. This helps ensure a safe and productive job site and protects your property from the potential damage of loose materials.