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how to build fencing'How do I build fencing properly?' We show you step by step how to erect a garden fence properly, if you want to build your gardens fencing yourself. We give you valuable landscaping advice, so get your spirit level, screwdriver, spade, hammer and cement mixer out and start building a fence!
It is worth discussing with your neighbours in advance that you are about to erect a fence, they may wish to clear any plants or sheds in their garden before you start work. The following steps are for a wooden fence. Be sure to lear the site, assembling all materials in advance for a stress free project. |
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step 1 - fence panels standard length of 1800mmSet up a taut line marking out the location of the whole fence. Most wooden fence panels are a standard length of 1800mm, measure yours to check and cut a piece of wood to the same length as a guide. |
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step 2 - fence post heights and gravel boardsWork out how high your fence post must be above the ground. You will need to add together the height of the fence panel, 50mm gap between the soil and the bottom of the panel (or the height of a gravel board), and 50mm length above the top of the panel, to allow a post cap to be used.
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step 3 - hardcore or gravel under fence postsUsing the piece of wood as a guide, dig holes approx. 600mm (or approx. ¼ of the post length) deep with a spade, for each post. Now pack a layer of hardcore or gravel around 100mm deep. Firm it well with an off-cut piece of wood or metal post.
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step 4 - check your fencing post with a spirit levelPut the fence post into the hole, keeping the post vertical and remember to check regularly with a spirit level. Continue to pack with cement, and keep firming down at each stage. Finish with the level of concrete just below the soil.
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step 5 - nailing temporary wooden braces to fencesRepeat this method for all the posts, and allow the concrete to set for at least 24 hours, you may want to support them while it sets by nailing temporary wooden braces at 45° to the ground.
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step 6 - galvanised fixing brackets & gravel boardsAttach the fence panel with galvanised metal fixing brackets and nails. Set some bricks in place to support the fence panel whilst doing this - it becomes much easier! You may wish to use a gravel board below your fence panel, attach this afterwards.
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DIY tips for erecting a garden fence• Nail a piece of wood to the bottom of the fence post at the correct height - when this is resting on the ground you are at the correct height.
• Mix 1 part cement, 2.5 parts sharp sand & 3.5 parts aggregate. |
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