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Building a garden fence is one of the home improvement projects homeowners decide to tackle themselves. A DIY garden fence is an easy and low cost project that can enhance any yard or garden.
Here’s how to build a basic do-it-yourself fence for your garden:
1. Choose The Material
Your garden fence can be made from wood, chicken wire, vinyl, or metal. Depending on your existing fence and your preferred aesthetics, each material will have its own pros and cons.
2. Plan The Layout
Once you have the material chosen, you need to decide where your fence will go. Measure everything twice to ensure you have the right numbers. These measurements will help you determine how much of each material is needed.
3. Get Your Fence Materials
You will need a range of fence materials and tools to get started. In fact, you may have some of these tools laying around if you complete DIY projects often. Gather a shovel, a few buckets, a screwdriver, concrete, and all the fencing material. If you aren’t sure what you need, an associate at your local home improvement store can point you in the right direction.
4. Dig Post Holes
This is when you will start to get your hands dirty. Dig 2 feet deep holes in the corners of where your fence will be. You’ll also need to dig holes at the end points of your fence. Make sure the holes are three times larger than the diameter of your post.
5. Set Using Concrete
Now, you need to set your posts. Mix an 80-pound bag of concrete together and fill the holes with the mixture. Refer to the bag for drying time.
6. Paint
While you’re waiting for the cement to dry, use a brush, roller, or sprayer to paint your fence panels and rails. It’s easier to do this step before the fence is built when all the elements are still separate. Even if you love the look of raw wood and would rather not paint it, finishing it with a protective spray will keep it in good shape longer.
While the concrete is drying, paint and/or seal your fence. It is easier to complete this step now than to wait until the fence is constructed.
7. Dig a Trench
If you want to keep pests from burrowing into your yard, dig a trench to place your fence in. Otherwise, you can skip this step. This will leave a small gap between the fence and the ground.
8. Line Your Posts with Rails
Once the trench is dug, cut one-by-four planks to a size that will fit between each post. Then, lay them in the ground and attach this to the posts. Use 2” exterior screws to ensure the rail is secure.
9. Attach Your Fencing
If you are using chicken wire, this is the time to attach it. Measure your fence and determine how much you will need. Then, use a brad nailer and 2” brad nails to attach the chicken wire to your fence.
10. Build a Gate
Once the fence is complete, it’s time to build a gate. Leave a ¾” gap between the posts to ensure the gate can swing open freely. Use a drill to create holes for the hinges. Once the holes are drilled, attach them using 2.5” pocket screws. Finally, attach the gate to the hinges.
If your project requires a fencing professional or DIY isn’t your thing, head over to Angi (formerly Angie’s List) to find a fence company in your area.
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