Survey Property Lines
2-4 hoursLocate property pins, review survey plat, and check local setback requirements. Call 811 to mark underground utilities before any digging.
Intermediate2-4 days
Fence Building Guide
Fence building workflow with post spacing calculations, material lists, gate planning, concrete footing volumes, and installation best practices.
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Workflow
Design the Fence Layout
2-3 hoursChoose fence style (privacy, picket, chain-link), height, gate locations, and post spacing. Mark corner and gate post positions with stakes and string.
Calculate Materials & Budget
30-45 minutesCompute post count, panel/picket quantity, rails, concrete bags, and hardware. Add 5% waste for cuts and breakage.
Set Fence Posts
1-2 daysDig post holes 1/3 of post length deep (minimum 24–36 inches). Set posts in concrete, verify plumb and aligned, and allow 24–48 hours cure time.
Install Rails & Framework
4-6 hoursAttach horizontal rails between posts at top, middle, and bottom (or per design). Use galvanized screws or nails rated for exterior use.
Install Pickets or Panels
1-2 daysAttach pickets with consistent spacing (typically 1/8–1/4 inch gap) or hang pre-built panels. Use a spacer block for uniform gaps.
Install Gate & Hardware
2-4 hoursHang gate on heavy-duty hinges with proper clearance (1 inch at bottom). Install latch and optional drop rod for double gates.
Tools Used
- Fence Post CalculatorPrimary
Determine post count, hole depth, and concrete volume based on fence length and spacing.
- Fence CalculatorPrimarySupporting
Calculate pickets, panels, rails, and hardware quantities for the chosen fence design. · Estimate total project cost including lumber, concrete, gates, and hardware.
Checklist
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Preparation
Installation
Finishing
Reference Materials
Post Spacing & Hole Depth GuideTable
Standard dimensions for common fence types.
| Fence Type | Post Spacing | Hole Depth | Post Size | Concrete per Hole |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood privacy (6 ft) | 8 ft | 30–36 in | 4×4 | 2–3 bags (60 lb) |
| Wood picket (4 ft) | 8 ft | 24–30 in | 4×4 | 1.5–2 bags |
| Chain-link (4 ft) | 10 ft | 30 in | 2⅜ in round | 1–2 bags |
| Vinyl privacy (6 ft) | 8 ft | 30 in | 4×4 or vinyl | 2 bags |
| Drive gate post | N/A | 36–42 in | 6×6 | 4–5 bags |
Setback & Height RegulationsStandard
Most municipalities require fences 6 ft or under in back yards and 3–4 ft in front yards. Setbacks from sidewalks and property lines vary — check local building codes and HOA rules before starting.
Concrete Mix Ratio for PostsFormula
Use fast-setting concrete for post holes: 1 bag (50 lb) per 10–12 inch diameter hole at 30 inch depth. Mix dry in hole and add water per bag instructions for fastest set.
Stepping on Slopes
On graded terrain, step each panel down rather than racking it — racked panels over 6 inches of slope look uneven and stress connections.
Post Setting Shortcut
Use a post level with straps to hold posts plumb hands-free while pouring concrete — saves significant time on long fence runs.
Prevent Rot at Ground Line
Set post tops 2 inches above soil grade and slope concrete collar away from wood. Consider post anchors above grade in wet climates.
Budget for a Gate Early
Gate hardware (hinges, latch, drop rod) adds $50–$150 per gate — include in cost estimate from the start to avoid budget surprises.
Safety Notes
- Call 811 before any digging — hitting a gas or electrical line is life-threatening.
- Wear steel-toe boots, gloves, and eye protection when handling lumber and mixing concrete.
- Use proper lifting technique for heavy posts and bags of concrete; get help for 6×6 posts.