How to Build a Fence

Prepare Your Yard

• Before starting any construction work, ensure you have all the necessary permits and property documentation. Contact your local municipality to confirm legal obligations, and carefully assess your property boundaries and excavation safety measures during the initial planning stage.
• Check out Click Before You Dig to identify the location of any buried utility lines in and around your property.
• Even if you're building a fence to increase privacy from your neighbours, it's a good idea to consult with them about your fence plans pre-build to prevent conflict after building and ensure property lines are clear.

Plan Your Design

• Measure your fence dimensions to determine the amount of material you need.
• The function of your fence will determine which materials will work best for your design:
  • Metal/chain link will keep kids and pets contained but is less private,
  • Pre-assembled pressure-treated wood fences, such as shadow box fencing and gothic picket fencing, offer excellent privacy and protection for your yard. However, they may require a bit more maintenance compared to other types of fencing.

Install Your Fencing

Once you've finalized your plans and selected your dream design, it's time to prepare your site by clearing obstacles and marking positions for the stakes. Before digging, do a trial fit of your posts and allocate spaces for elements like gates.

Start by digging holes for your fence posts, possibly using tools like a post-hole digger. Many techniques for setting posts exist, so consult an expert for the most suitable method for your soil and post type. Ensure each post, rail, and board is level and square throughout construction.

Perfect Your Project

Once your fence is finished, add details like:

• Post caps
• Lights
• A fresh coat of stain or sealant
• Planters
• Gates

The finishing touches will turn your backyard into a destination!