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Posted by Stubby on October 20, 2006, 4:06 pm
Joseph Meehan wrote:
>> Hi,
>>
>> I would like to fence my yard for two smallish dogs. After getting
>> some heart-stopping estimates, I decided I would tackle it myself.
>> However, in talking to people about how to do it, I've become too
>> intimidated to try.
>>
>> I would like to do a picket fence, probably using panels, 3 feet high.
>> I've been told it's absolutely critical that the posts be exactly the
>> same height, set in concrete at least 2 feet deep, perfectly squared,
>> must use several inches of gravel in the bottom, set up props and don't
>> touch them for days after pouring concrete, don't use the quickie
>> cement, etc. etc.
>>
>> I've also been told not to go near HD or Lowe's vinyl panels, "they're
>> junk." But I'm only fencing in two small dogs, not pigs or a bull.
>
> I have never used them, but my guess is they are not equal to the better
> quality materials that are available. You don't need a big dog to cause
> problems, normally mother nature supplies plenty of problems and she fails
> the neighborhood kids can usually do it.
>
>> It
>> doesn't need to be that sturdy and I don't even want it to be
>> permanent, although it needs to last for several years. I live in
>> town, so it has to look presentable, but I can't believe I have to hire
>> pros and spend $8K+ to get it to look nice.
>>
>> Do I really have to set the posts in concrete? What's the risk (other
>> than having it look a little sloppy) if the posts aren't perfectly set?
>
> That depends on the local conditions and how deep the post are set.
> If they are not properly set to begin with you are going to have problems.
>
>> Are panels a good choice? Is there a compelling argument against
>> using just any old panels?
>
> Panels are more demanding of getting the post in properly. It is far
> easier to fudge errors when building stick than panel.
>
>> Is installing a fence really so tricky that
>> an inexperienced DIYer shouldn't even try?
>
> No it can be done yourself, but it is work and you do need to start with
> a good solid foundation (the posts)
>
> I suggest you find a DIY book on the subject for a starter.
>> Jo Ann
>>
>
I had the same experience about 13 years ago and decided to build my
own privacy fence out of rough-sawn pine lumber from a local saw mill.
4x4 pt on bottom, 2x4 pt on top, edges of vertical boards caught between
two narrow catches on the top and bottom. The most expensive part of
the whole thing was the wood stain. That surprised me.
You could design and build your own fence from rough-sawn lumber. It's
actually a fun project. My fence was stepped from 5' to 8' high and
was fairly complicated and wasn't overly hard to build. Meehan's
advice to get a book is good.
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