How to Build a Wood Fence
Whether you’re looking for privacy, security, sound reduction or just a bit of curb appeal, a wood fence can be the perfect solution. It’s also one of the most customizable options available, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners.
Choosing the Right Type of Wood
Before you start building your new fence, it’s important to choose the right type of lumber for your needs. Regardless of your budget, you should choose a sturdy, durable wood that will last long enough to avoid costly repairs in the future. If you’re not sure what type of lumber would be best for your fencing project, speak with a professional Houston fence company.
Posts are the critical supports of a wood fence, and they’re made from either pressure-treated lumber or a natural wood that resists decay. They can be set into the ground or a concrete base.
The next step is to measure and mark where the posts will be placed on your property. This is essential for ensuring the proper height and depth of the posts and avoiding legal consequences should the posts be installed in the wrong place. It’s also important for determining whether your local code requires the posts to be concreted in.
Once the posts have been set, it’s time to attach the rails to them. The rails are long, horizontal pieces of lumber that run between the posts and are a key component of the overall strength and durability of your wooden fence. Most wooden fences feature two, three or four rails between each post.
When installing the rails, you’ll need to make sure that they’re firmly attached to the posts with exterior-grade wood screws. This is important for the longevity of your fence and can be a frustrating and time-consuming task if you’re not experienced with power tools.
After the rails have been attached to the posts, it’s time to apply a protective stain or sealer. This will help your wood fence stand up to water, rot and UV damage. It will also keep your fence from graying over time, which can make it look unsightly.
Getting the Job Done Without a Professional
If you’re handy, and your property is flat, it may be possible to build a wood fence on your own. However, it’s a major project and you could end up with a fence that doesn’t fit your needs or aesthetic tastes.
A professional fence contractor will be able to provide you with the right materials and expert advice about how to best complete your project. They’ll also be able to get the job done in a timely manner and for a fair price.
The cost of a wood fence depends on a number of factors, including the type of lumber used, the size of your yard and the extent of the installation. The more labor-intensive the project, the higher the cost will be.
A professional fence contractor will begin the process of putting up your fence by providing you with a free estimate. You’ll then be able to work with the contractor to create a plan for your project. Once you’ve negotiated terms of the contract, you’ll be able to schedule a time for the contractor to come out and install your fence.