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Fence Planning & Tips
Privacy
fences define boundaries, protect children, contain
pets and block wind, but the primary reason for
building a fence is privacy! Board fences
are made up of boards nailed to a post and rail
framework in various configurations and patterns.
Building a fence is well within the skill level
of most do-it-yourselfers, and by building it
yourself you'll save a lot of money!
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MATERIAL
ESTIMATING
Post
spacing is usually 8 feet on center, therefore
it's easier to estimate your fencing material
in 8' increments. Keep in mind that additional
posts and rails may be necessary for ends, corners
and gates.
Please
check
your local codes before purchasing fencing from
Sutherlands!
Material
Required per 8' Section (typical)
| 1x4
Slats: (3.5" wide) |
28 boards |
| 1x6
Slats: (5.5" wide) |
18
boards |
| Rails: |
3 |
| Posts: |
1 |
| Concrete
or Post Mix: |
1
(60lb. bag) |
| 7d
Galvanized nails (For slats): |
1x4's
- 112 (1.24 lbs.)
1x6's - 72 (.8 lbs.) |
| 16d
Galv Nails (for rails): |
6
(.2 lbs) |
| 1-5/8"
Exterior Screws (for slats): |
1x4's
- 112
1x6's - 72 |
| 3"
Exterior Screws (for rails): |
6 |
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Click
Here to use our Handy Fencing Calculator
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TOOLS
NEEDED
OTHER
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER
- Be
sure and check with your neighbors before building
your fence. They might be willing to help pay
for it, or have something else in mind!
- ALWAYS
verify property lines before you install a fence.
If your fence is accidentally or purposely built
outside of your property line, the usual solution
is for you to remove the fence and re-build it
in the correct location!
- ALWAYS
have underground utilities marked before you dig.
This is usually a free service provided by the
utilities, AND IT'S THE LAW.
- CHECK
YOUR LOCAL CODES!
Many municipal codes affect how high your fence
can be (usually 6'), and where you can put it.
- POSTS
ARE IMPORTANT!
Not only do straight posts give you a straight
fence, they support it against wind and weather.
Spend extra time making sure everything is correct
before you cement your posts into the ground.
Always buy the best material possible, and set
them in pea gravel to allow drainage away from
the post underground.
- PLAN
AHEAD FOR SLOPES AND GRADE.
Decide if you want to install your fencing using
the step method, or parallel method as shown below.
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PLEASE CHECK YOUR LOCAL CODES to learn if and how any of the above products should be used in your area. Additional materials than shown here may need to be purchased to comply with local codes. Some products vary by location and may not be available at your local store or different than shown on this web site. Prices are subject to change at any time without notice. Pricing and description errors are subject to correction.
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