A fence is one of the best ways to define your property line and create a sense of privacy. You can also use it to block access from other properties, protect pets and children and help prevent burglars from entering your home. Whether you plan to install your own fence or hire a professional to do the work, here are some steps to consider:
1. Get Your Measurements Right
When you install a new fence, it is important to measure carefully so that you don’t waste time or money on materials you won’t need. A small mistake could cost you thousands of dollars.
You’ll need to know the exact dimensions of your fence posts, and this includes the height as well as the width. Once you have these measurements, you can start preparing your yard for the installation process.
2. Prepare Your Ground for the Fencing
Before you can begin installing your fence, you need to clear out your yard and make sure it’s free of debris or bushes that might be in the way. Doing this now will greatly reduce the amount of time spent clearing the yard later on.
3. Locate Underground Utility Lines
If you live in Illinois, it’s important to locate all of your underground utility lines before you dig for your fence. Notifying JULIE to have them located will ensure your work doesn’t interfere with utility lines and it will also save you a lot of money on labor costs down the road.
4. Dig Postholes That Are Deep Enough
When digging your posts, it’s a good idea to get them as deep as possible in the ground, so you can place them safely and securely. Ideally, the depth of each post should be between 1/3 and 1/2 of its actual length in the ground.
5. Set the Posts in Concrete
Once you have all of your posts dug, it’s time to set them in concrete. This can be done by mixing the concrete in a hole or by filling it with a wheelbarrow and spreading it around to the desired depth. If you choose to mix the concrete in a hole, it’s important that you use an electric drill to ensure the concrete is the correct consistency.
6. Depending on the type of fence you’re building, it might be a good idea to put a layer of concrete along the bottom of each post before setting it in place. This will help direct rain and snow melt away from the post and prevent it from sinking into the ground.
7. Brush Your Fence Panels and Posts With Oil Stain
Whether you’re installing a Aluminium and Wrought Iron Fence installation yourself or hiring a professional, it’s a good idea to stain your fencing panels and posts before putting them together. This will prevent the wood from drying out and splintering, and it will also make your fence look more attractive.
You might even want to add a decorative top or some shrubs along the base of the fence for added flair.
Fence Installation is a big project and should be done with precision. A few mistakes can easily make the whole job difficult or even a disaster.
First, you need to decide on the type of fence you want. This will help you choose the most appropriate materials and cost. Decide what you’re willing to spend, and factor in the cost of staining and other maintenance as well.
Second, you need to clear any obstacles from your fence line. This includes large rocks, roots, and tough soils. If you can avoid these obstacles, the installation process will be easier.
Third, you need to make sure the area is free of any water or gas lines before digging the holes for your posts. Call 811 before you dig and have your local utility company mark the location of any lines that could interfere with your installation.
Fourth, you need to make sure that your postholes are deep enough to hold the post. You should bury at least a third of the post’s length in the ground, but check with your local building codes for the minimum depth.
Fifth, you need to measure the height between your corner and end posts. This will help you know how high to set your fencing panels.
Finally, you need to decide whether you’ll use panels or pickets for your fence. Panels are typically quicker and less expensive to install than pickets, which require you to assemble rails one at a time.