Fences can protect young children and pets from predators and maintain privacy between neighbors. However, fence installation is a large project that requires proper planning and careful execution to ensure it’s done correctly.
Contact your local administration and homeowner association to determine what codes, restrictions, and permits you need. Contact R.C Fence LLC now!
Adding a fence to your home is an investment in security, privacy, and style. It also enhances the curb appeal and value of the property. However, fence installation is a significant project that involves many steps from beginning to end. Understanding the process helps homeowners ensure the installation is done correctly.
Before the construction begins, homeowners should select a reputable installer and discuss their needs. The contractor can offer advice and recommend the best fencing materials for their property. They can also advise on local zoning regulations and homeowners’ association guidelines. It is important for the homeowner to communicate with their neighbors as well to make sure they agree about the fence’s style and size.
Homeowners should also clear the yard of any objects that could interfere with the fence construction. For example, movable lawn furniture and children’s toys should be removed from the work area so they aren’t damaged by crews or by falling debris. It is also a good idea to remove any flower beds or planters that may be in the way. Lastly, it is important to call the local utility marking service to mark the location of any underground lines that may be in the path of the fence installation.
Before the actual construction, the installer will obtain any necessary permits. This will help to ensure that the fence complies with all building codes and is in compliance with zoning regulations. If a permit is not obtained, it may lead to delays and even fines for the homeowner. It is important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with the permitting requirements in their area and submit any required documentation as soon as possible.
Digging the Posts
When it comes to fence installation, the first thing you’ll need to do is dig the posts. This may seem like a simple task, but the truth is that it’s very important and requires skill and experience.
If you’re not careful, your post holes will be crooked and the fence won’t stand properly. Moreover, the holes may not be deep enough to prevent your fence from heaving during the frost.
A professional will know how to dig fence post holes that are the right depth and size for your specific type of fence. They will also know how to properly brace the posts as they install them, which is important for ensuring the stability of the posts and the strength of the fence.
One of the most common mistakes that many DIYers make when installing a fence is spacing the posts too far apart. As eDecks points out, this can cause your fence to become shaky and unbalanced. Ideally, you should space the posts about 8 feet apart.
While you’re digging the fence posts, it’s a good idea to use a batter board or a string guide. This will help you get the most accurate results possible and ensure that the posts are perfectly aligned with each other when you’re finished.
Once you’ve determined the location of your posts, you should call JULIE to have all underground utility lines located and marked for free before beginning any digging project. This is the law in Illinois and it’s worth following this step to avoid costly mistakes and injuries. You can find information about submitting a locate request on the JULIE website. It’s also a good idea to speak with your neighbors and discuss the location of the fence with them in advance.
Attaching the Panels
Fence panels are pre-made sections that make erecting a fence much easier than constructing the wood one piece at a time. Typically sold at hardware stores, fence panels come in many different sizes and styles. To determine which ones are right for your home, take the size of the area to be fenced and its height into consideration. Then, choose a style that will best fit your needs and budget.
Before beginning fence installation, always check with your local utility company to learn about any underground lines near the site. Digging post holes without knowing of any nearby lines could result in costly damage to your property or utility system. Once you’ve inspected the area, dig post holes that are about 1/3 of the total length of your fence posts. Then, use a level to ensure that the posts are plumb.
After securing the posts, install each fence panel in your chosen position. You can work on a flat surface or set the panels up on wooden props to avoid putting too much stress on the wood as you work. It’s a good idea to have a helper on hand for lifting and positioning the heavy panels.
Once all the fence panels are installed, you can begin to install the rails between the panels. Start at the end or corner of your yard and work your way around in a step pattern. Before installing the next panel, lift the previous one a few inches above the ground on the uphill side and use horizontal support rails to align it with your new fence.
To help your fence stand up to the elements, stain or finish it as needed. For a rustic look, you can also add ivy to the wall for natural protection and to hide any unattractive areas of the structure.
Installing the Rails
Split rail fences are a classic way to add a sense of sophistication and character to your home. They are durable, beautiful and, with a bit of elbow grease, relatively easy to install yourself. They also tend to be cheaper than some of the more expensive fence materials, making them a great option for people who are looking for something that will add a touch of class without breaking the bank.
Before you dig your first post hole, it is important to check with the local government to see if there are any zoning regulations in place that may affect the height of your fence or the distance from property lines. If there are, make sure to follow them to avoid any potential legal complications or costly mistakes down the road.
Once the posts have been dug, you can begin the process of installing the fence rails. You will need one end post at the beginning and end of your fence line, as well as corner posts to form a right angle at each intersection. Then, you will need line posts in between the end and corner posts. The line posts should be spaced the same distance from the end posts as they are from each other, so it is helpful to create a diagram or sketch before you get started.
When you are ready to begin the rail installation, you will need to mark the location of each post with a stake. Before digging your post holes, remember to call 811 before you start so that your underground utility lines can be marked for free before workers dig in the area. When the posts have been set, you can install the fence rails. Typically, the top rail will be flush with the top of the post and the bottom rail will be about 7-8″ from the ground.
Installing the Posts Between the Panels
Once the fence posts are set and the rails are in place, it’s time to install the panels and pickets. This is where the fence starts to take shape and add privacy, beauty and value to your home. Precision is key during this phase to maintain the integrity and appearance of your new fence.
Before beginning, it’s a good idea to discuss your plans with your neighbor(s) and check for any easements that may run through your property. You should also check with your local community or homeowner association to make sure you’re aware of any building codes, restrictions or permits that apply.
The distances between fence posts can vary depending on the type of fencing you’re installing. Prefabricated panel fences have little wiggle room with spacing because they’re constructed to fit between posts that are a certain distance apart. Wire and chain link fences have more leeway with post spacing, which allows for a more tailored look.
Fence posts can be set directly in the ground or in concrete. If you choose to use concrete, your fence installation company will mix and pour the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The contractor will then set each fence post in the hole, tamping the soil to compact it and secure the concrete in the post holes.
Some contractors prefer to use galvanized post brackets at the soil level instead of burying them in concrete. These brackets help to protect the base of each fence post from corrosion and provide stability.
With an assistant, seat the first fence panel between two posts. With a carpenter’s level, check the panel for height against the top of the posts. If the panel is low, install blocking below the panel to raise it. Continue this process for each panel, adding the blocking as needed until each panel is at the proper height.