How to Prepare Your Yard for Fence InstallationIf you're planning to build fencing for privacy or to keep your kids safe it's essential to understand the basics prior to beginning. Also, you should check the setbacks and guidelines of your community.Based on the area you live in it is possible that you need to obtain a permit before building your fence. This is especially true if your property is on uneven or rocky ground.PreparationBefore you begin installing your fence, be sure that your yard is in good condition for the materials. This will make the process of installing your fence more efficient and speedier.It is recommended to walk the entire fence line and remove any stones, logs or other personal items that could be a problem during construction. installing vinyl fencing will also help determine any major slopes within the ground, which can influence the amount of fence panels you'll need to buy.You'll need to identify your property lines (also called pins) to avoid disputes with neighbors and local authorities. This could require you to examine your plat map, or even call a surveyor.Find out the location reports of your utility companies for underground pipes running close to the fence. This will stop any accidents from happening and stop the installers from running over any water or electrical lines.Another important part of the preparation is to clear any movable lawn furniture or other decorations are in the area. This will allow the job to easier and keep your fence builders from stumbling upon any stray items or getting damaged accidentally.It is also a good idea to move any objects that block the path, such as toys for children, flower pots, or any other fixed structures. This will help the job easier and allow your fence installation crew perform their work more efficiently.The next step is to mark the fence line with string and stakes. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings with your neighbors and give you peace of mind that the construction is done in the correct place.PostsFence posts are an integral part of any fence. They anchor the fence, support the tension wires and form a structural base. They can be constructed of metal or wood.Consider the terrain they will enclose when choosing the posts you choose. For privacy and chain link fences, posts with a a diameter of around 3 1/2 inches (or six-by-sixes) are in high demand. Posts that are slightly smaller, like four-by-4s, are ideal for wrought iron and vinyl fencing.The most labor-intensive component of a fence construction project is putting up fence posts. The installation of fence post can take a few minutes. It takes about 5 minutes for the installer to dig the hole, then it takes a few minutes to mix concrete, then pour it into the hole and then, it takes about 1 minute to set the post and plumb it.You'll require a post-hole digger or auger to make the holes. Make the holes one-third of the post's length deep and three times the width of the post.Add gravel to each hole: Some experts suggest placing at minimum 6 inches of gravel in the bottom of each hole. This helps prevent rotting and corrosion by providing drainage.If you're using soil, add a bit of gravel to help it to pack it tightly around the posts. It's also recommended to use gravel as a base for gate posts and corner posts.Set your posts in the ground. If you're constructing a wood fence, make sure that you choose straight posts that are straight and arrow-straight. This will prevent cracks and sagging. A fence that is twisted or bent may not only appear ugly, but it could also cause it to fail.After you have completed your fence and you are satisfied with the fence, you can seal the fence and posts using a sealer. A coating can aid in keeping the wood's natural color and resist water damage. installing vinyl fencing can be a durable low-maintenance way to keep livestock or other animals to a specific area. It can be used to also control wildlife and keep predators from entering your yard.Split rail fencing consists of posts that have slots cut into them, and rails that are strung between. These rails can be between 2 and 5 inches in quantity and are made of spruce, cedar or treated wood.Make a series or holes approximately 1/3 of the length of the post you're installing. For example, a 6-foot-long post should have two holes. To help with water drainage and to prevent decay of wood the post should be placed vertically in the ground.Next, brace the post using a 2-foot by 4 foot board and stakes to ensure it is plumb before you back fill it with dirt. This will ensure that the posts remain in place and keep the fence from moving.Once you are satisfied with the post's level, insert the rails into the post holes. Place the rails in the holes until the rails over the post. Continue this process until all rails are installed.The final step in the installation is to attach each rail to the posts with rust-free fasteners and galvanized brackets. U-shaped hangers are a popular option however, you can also make use of galvanized nails. The type of fasteners you choose will affect the strength and durability of your fence, however galvanized nails won't rust, and will last for years to come.PicketsA fence made of pickets is beautiful feature for your yard and can improve the appearance of your home. Picket fences are simple to maintain and are less expensive than other types of fencing particularly when they are constructed of vinyl.Pickets have a wide range of styles and designs, and can be used to add the appearance of color or design elements to your fence. They can be stained or painted and are available in a variety that include pressure-treated and cedar wood. installing vinyl fencing between the pickets is a different factor that can be adjusted to meet your preferences and requirements. The amount of space between each picket will impact privacy, visibility and the ease of use.Measure the fence to determine how much space. Typically, you'll want to ensure that there is space between each picket not more than 4 inches to avoid injury or accident to children who might attempt to pass through.Once you have determined the area you want to cover and have a good idea of the size, you can dig six to eight-foot-distance post holes. Concrete should be poured into these holes to ensure they can hold the posts and the weight of the fence.Then place the posts into the holes, making sure that they are level and level. To help guide the placement of each post, place the posts to a string line.Attaching the rails and pickets to your fence is the final step. This is an easy process that only takes about a minute for each picket. To ensure that your fence looks great, you must follow these steps.HardwareIt doesn't matter if you're building fences for privacy or security it's crucial to have the appropriate equipment and tools. These items can make the process of installing your fence faster as well as more efficiently.For instance, a tape measure is an excellent tool to keep on hand to help you get started on your project. This will allow for you to determine the area you wish to cut precisely before you begin cutting.Another tool that is essential to have on hand is a circular saw. This will let you cut through the materials that you require to complete your project easily. It's also an excellent idea to own a chainsaw, which will help you trim the braces that you will need to install your fence.It's always good to have wire cutters on hand. They're affordable and can be purchased at any hardware store.It is important to have a crimping tool in the event you choose to utilize wire fencing. This will enable you to put the fencing in place without a problem.A post hole auger is an essential item, as it will allow you dig fence posts quickly and precisely. This tool will make sure that each post is equally large and deep, ensuring that the entire fence will be uniform in its construction.A fence is an attractive addition to any home and can be used for both decorative and functional reasons. It can define your yard, add to the value of your property and ensure that your family is safe. Fences can also be used to protect your garden from animals and other dangers. It is essential to select the right material for your needs.