Types And Installation Of Fence Panels

A famous poet once wrote that good fences make good neighbors. Putting up a nice fence can turn any neighbor into a good neighbor. (After all, out of sight is out of mind.)

Fence Panels

A convenient and simple plan to enjoying an economical fence in a minimum of time is to install fence panels which come in several styles and building materials.

Wood panels are classic for fencing, made of durable, outdoor friendly hardwood, spruce (used when you want to allow this whitewood to age to an attractive gray over time), or cedar. They can be easily installed on metal poles. They will eventually require maintenance to retain a fresh look.

Vinyl panels are maintenance free and are available with lattice, without lattice, in a basket weave pattern, wood grain appearance, or as mesh. They are vulnerable to cold and can crack, but they are also easy to replace. Sometimes you only need to replace one element of the panel.

Stone panels can be either a thin veneer of natural stone or an authentic looking imitation of stone.  Neither requires professional installation or heavy equipment to move boulders.

Bamboo panels are increasingly popular and are surprisingly tough. Their aesthetic value cannot be duplicated by use of any other material.

Chain link or picket panels do not provide privacy, but can be effective in keeping pets in or out of your yard. They can be found in aluminum or galvanized steel (and plastic). Stainless steel is available, but you can expect to pay dearly for it. Perforated metal sheeting panels can be found.

Before building a fence you should check with authorities about any regulations or ordinances local to the area. Call the utility companies to ensure that any underground cables or pipes are located and well marked. If the fence is along a joint boundary line, confer with the other property owner about impacting property value in a positive way. Before buying fence panels measure exactly the area to be fenced with placement of any gates in mind. This will enable you to determine the number of panels and posts to buy. Change the plan to use full panels if possible. If part of a fence panel must be used, put it at the least noticeable part of the fence. Consider the grade if the area being fenced. On a grade, the fence must gradually step up the slope while keeping the rails level.

Choose your style and purchase the necessary items Gather tools. Items that you may need depend on the type of fence you install. You may need a hammer, a power saw, a power drill, a level, a posthole digger, an aluminum ladder (If you already own a new multi ladder you will find it handy to use on this job.), a tape measure, grade stakes, concrete and gravel, a carpenter’s pencil, string, 2X4’s to use for bracing, nails or screws.

Dig post holes. Use concrete according to the frost depth of your area to secure the posts.

Place a board under each panel as you attach it to the posts. You may need to predrilled holes for the screws or nails that attach the panel. Remember to check the panels frequently to keep the top line level.