Building your own privacy fence is a great way to save money while also customizing your yard to suit your needs. With some planning, effort, and basic DIY skills, you can install an attractive and functional fence even on a limited budget. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know to successfully build a DIY privacy fence affordably.
Planning Your DIY Privacy Fence
Careful planning is crucial before starting your DIY fence project. Consider these key factors to set yourself up for success:
Determine the Location
- Walk your property and decide exactly where you want to build the fence and mark the planned area with stakes. Consider sun exposure, views, and existing landscaping.
Choose Fence Height
- Typical privacy fence height is 6-8 feet. Taller is more private but increases cost and installation difficulty. Consider neighborhood codes.
Select Fence Material
- Wood and vinyl are affordable DIY options. Choose rot-resistant woods like cedar or pressure-treated pine. Vinyl requires less maintenance.
Calculate Amount of Fencing Needed
- Measure the length and height of each side being fenced. Add 10-15% extra to allow for gate(s) and mistakes.
Design the Fence Layout
- Decide on post spacing (6-8 feet typical) and mark post locations with spray paint. Space closer together on sloped areas.
Check Local Building Codes
- Many areas have codes for fence location, height, and materials. Some require permits. Research before starting.
Create a Budget
- Calculate total costs including materials, tools, and labor if hiring help. Look for deals to lower expenses.
Choose a Fence Style
- Privacy fences are typically board-on-board or alternating boards. Choose based on privacy needs and aesthetics.
DIY Privacy Fence Materials
Buying quality materials is key for an enduring and attractive DIY fence. Here are the main components you’ll need and how to choose cost-effective options:
Fence Boards
- For privacy, use 1×6 or 1×8 boards with a rabbeted overlap edge to eliminate gaps. Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant woods. Pressure-treated boards are inexpensive and suitable if properly sealed.
Fence Posts
- Sturdy 4×4 posts are required. Use pressure-treated wood rated for ground contact or rot-resistant cedar or redwood. Space posts 6-8 feet apart.
Post Caps
- Optional but recommended. Cap posts to protect from water damage. Choose metal or plastic caps.
Gravel and Concrete
- Mix concrete to anchor fence posts in the ground. Use crushed gravel to improve drainage.
Screws and Nails
- Use galvanized or stainless-steel screws and nails to assemble the fence. They won’t rust or corrode.
Paint, Stain, or Sealer
- Consider coating your wood fence to protect and beautify it. Tung oil is a natural option. Be sure to use exterior-grade products.
Post Brackets
- Metal brackets attach boards securely to posts. Choose galvanized steel or aluminum.
Miscellaneous Materials
- Additional supplies like wood glue, levels, string, and tools will be needed. Create a checklist before shopping.
Rental Equipment
- Consider renting a post hole digger and power auger to dig holes for posts. Can save lots of labor.
Tips for Saving Money on DIY Fence Materials
Building a fence is a big investment. Use these money-saving tips to cut costs:
- Check for off-cut or discounted boards at home supply stores.
- Use pressure-treated pine rather than more expensive cedar or redwood.
- Paint or stain over imperfections in boards to get discount pricing.
- Buy generic post brackets rather than brand name products.
- Shop sales and clearance events for fencing materials at big box stores.
- Buy screws, nails, and other items in bulk quantities to lower per-unit pricing.
- Rent equipment for post holes instead of purchasing.
- Reuse existing fence posts and hardware if possible.
- Check Craigslist and Facebook for free or cheap used fencing materials.
- Use thinner 1×4 or 1×6 boards if full privacy is not needed.
- Speak with contractors about buying leftover materials at a discount after their jobs.
Tools Needed for a DIY Privacy Fence
Having the right tools for the job will make your fencing project much easier. Be sure you have access to these essential DIY fence tools:
- Cordless drill – For drilling screw and nail holes. A impact driver is ideal.
- Circular or reciprocating saw – For cutting posts and boards to length.
- Miter saw – Makes precise angle cuts for corners and gates.
- Post hole digger – Manual or power auger to dig holes for fence posts.
- Concrete mixer – If mixing concrete by hand, a power mixer is extremely helpful.
- Wheelbarrow – For transporting concrete, dirt, tools, etc around the job site.
- Level – Essential for setting posts plumb and attaching boards correctly. A 4-foot level is recommended.
- String line – Helps mark straight post row lines and verify fence is level.
- Clamps – Hold boards in position when attaching to posts.
- Safety equipment – Gloves, glasses, ear protection, and dust mask.
- Shovel – For moving soil, gravel, and concrete.
- Tape measure – Important for measuring and setting post spacing. Get a 25+ foot tape.
- Carpenter’s pencil/marker – Mark cuts, post locations, and measurements.
- Tamp or rental equipment – For compacting soil around post holes.
Preparing the Area for a DIY Fence
Proper site preparation sets the stage for successfully installing your DIY fence.
Mark the Fence Line
- Use stakes and string to mark the exact fence line area based on measurements. Verify corners are square.
Call Utility Locators
- In most areas, law requires calling 811 utility locators before any digging to avoid hitting underground lines.
Remove Obstructions
- Clear away plants, trees, rocks, structures, and other items from the planned fence footprint.
Level Uneven Ground
- For a professional look, the bottom of the fence should follow the contour of the ground. Fill in low spots as needed.
Improve Drainage
- If soil is moist, use crushed gravel to promote drainage in post holes to prevent rotting.
Rent Equipment
- Line up delivery of any rented power tools like augers or mixers early to avoid delays.
Setting Fence Posts
Properly planting and spacing the posts is crucial to building a sturdy and straight DIY fence.
Mark Post Locations
- Based on desired spacing (6-8 feet typical), mark planned post spots with spray paint or stakes.
Dig Holes
- Dig holes 12″-18” in diameter and to a depth of 1/3 the total post height (e.g. 2 feet deep for a 6 foot fence).
Add Gravel
- Put 4-6” of gravel in the bottom of holes for drainage to prevent rotting. Tamp down with rentable gas-powered tamp.
Insert and Level Posts
- Place posts in holes centered. Use a level to make plumb vertically and inline with string line.
Brace Temporarily
- Use scrap boards to temporarily brace posts and hold in place while concrete cures.
Pour Concrete
- Mix concrete per bag instructions and pour dry into hole around posts. Slowly add water.
Tamp Concrete Down
- As you add concrete, use a tamping tool or rod to eliminate air pockets around posts.
Crown for Water Runoff
- Shape a slight crown of concrete sloped away from posts to improve drainage.
Allow Concrete to Cure
- Let concrete fully cure for 1-2 days before attaching fence boards.
Attaching Fence Boards
Follow these steps to properly install the fencing boards onto the secured posts:
Plan Board Spacing
- If doing alternating boards, measure and mark post centers for spacing. Wider spacing saves money.
Allow Space Under Boards
- Leave 2-3” of space between ground and first board to prevent rotting from ground moisture.
Cut Boards to Length
- Measure between posts and cut boards to fit using a power saw.
Drill Pilot Holes
- Drill pilot holes in boards to prevent splitting when driving in screws.
Use Post Brackets
- Secure galvanized metal post brackets to posts using exterior screws.
Attach Boards
- Place first board against post bracket and drill screws through bracket into board.
Maintain Straight Lines
- Use a level often when installing boards to keep lines straight and prevent a “stair step” effect.
Stagger Board Ends
- When boards meet at posts, stagger the ends for a more pleasing look.
Use Appropriate Screws
- Consult manufacturer recommendations and do not use screws that are too long. Prevent puncturing through boards.
Allow Space for Expansion
- Wood boards expand and contract. Allow a 1/4” gap between each board.
Seal Exposed Ends
- Where board ends are exposed, seal with waterproof glue or exterior caulk to prevent moisture damage.
Installing Fence Gates
Adding one or more gates allows convenient access through your privacy fence. DIY installation is totally possible by following these key steps:
Choose Gate Location Thoughtfully
- Look at yard use and landscaping to determine the ideal spot(s) for gates. Mark with spray paint.
Determine Gate Size
- Consider equipment like lawnmowers accessing the yard. Typical gate width is 3-5 feet. Height matches the fence.
Install Gate Posts
- Set reinforced 4×4 or 6×6 posts on each side for hanging gate. Install oversized post anchors into concrete for strength.
Hang Gate Properly
- Use galvanized gate hinges, allowing 1” clearance off the ground. Include a sturdy gate latch for locking.
Add Gate Cross Brace
- A horizontal cross brace prevents sagging and keeps the gate square. Essential for longer, heavier gates.
Consider Gate Design
- Simple board gates are affordable and blend with most fence designs. Or get creative like an arched top or decorative metal gate.
Ensure Smooth Operation
- Test gate to ensure it swings smoothly without rubbing or catching on the ground.
Finishing and Maintaining Your DIY Fence
The final steps complete your DIY privacy fence project and prepare it to endure the elements:
Apply Protective Finish
- Consider coating or sealing your wood fence to protect from weathering. Use an exterior-grade product.
Seal All Exposed Wood
- Seal cut board ends, posts tops, or anywhere raw wood is exposed with a waterproof sealer.
Backfill Post Holes
- Fill any visible gaps around posts with gravel, then soil. Tamp down firmly. Slope soil away from posts.
Consider Landscaping Additions
- Plant borders or vines along the fence base to soften the look and conceal the fence base.
Clean Up the Work Site
- Haul away excess materials and dirt. Clean tools and repair any incidental damage from install.
Schedule Ongoing Maintenance
- Expect to re-seal, make repairs, tighten hardware, and wash your fence annually or biannually to maximize longevity. Catch issues early before they worsen. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions? Here are answers to common queries about building your own DIY privacy fence:
Is building a fence something I can do myself?
Yes! With proper planning, right materials, and some handyman experience, installing your own wood or vinyl fence is very achievable. Be sure to research building code requirements in your area first.
How deep should I bury the fence posts?
As a rule of thumb, bury posts to 1/3 of their total height. So for a 6 foot post, dig the hole 2 feet deep. Deeper is more stable. Add gravel for drainage.
What kind of wood is best for DIY fencing?
Pressure-treated pine is affordable and suitable for fencing when properly sealed. For a natural look without chemicals, choose rot-resistant cedar or redwood. Avoid untreated Douglas fir as it will quickly decay.
Is it okay to use concreted pre-made fence posts?
Yes, using pre-cast posts with metal braces can make installation much easier. Just ensure they meet local code requirements for burial depth.
What can I use if I can’t afford all new fence boards?
Check with neighbors or building suppliers for used boards. Also consider using thinner 1×4 inch boards spaced slightly apart to allow some visibility while maintaining privacy and cutting costs. Get creative!
How much will a new wood privacy fence cost me?
On average, expect to spend $15-25 per linear foot for materials. So a 20×20 foot fence could cost $1,000 – $2,000 plus rental equipment fees. Vinyl is more expensive but requires less maintenance.
What kind of nails or screws should I use?
For longevity, use galvanized or stainless steel nails and screws outside. Hot dipped galvanized is affordable and suitable for most climates. Avoid standard steel fasteners as they will rust.
Conclusion
Building your own fencing is an extremely rewarding project that can save thousands of dollars compared to hiring a professional. Hopefully these detailed steps give you the knowledge and confidence to tackle your DIY privacy fence successfully. With proper planning and preparations, quality materials, the right tools, and your handy skills, you can have a great looking fence that precisely suits your property’s needs and budget. Just be sure to do the prep work like marking layout, digging holes, and setting posts correctly. Take it section by section, and you’ll be enjoying your new privacy fence before you know it. Here’s to happy DIYing!