How to Build a Fence: Advanced Techniques for Professional Builders

14th Aug 2024 -

Building a fence combines practical know-how with an understanding of regulations and property boundaries. This guide aims to boost your fence-building skills. We cover everything from initial site assessment and building codes to installation techniques. 

By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge to tackle any fencing project with confidence.

• How to Prepare for Building a Fence
• What are Building Regulations for Fences?
• How to Build a Fence: Advanced Techniques
• Common Fence Building Mistakes to Avoid
• Discover Reliable Fencing Materials Today

How to Prepare for Building a Fence

Proper preparation is the key to any successful fence construction project. It involves much more than simply gathering tools and materials. The following outlines the essential considerations that will set the foundation for a smooth fence installation.

Material preparation and staging

Calculate material requirements, including posts, panels, rails and hardware. Order extra materials (typically 10-15%) to account for cuts, waste and potential issues. 

Stage materials strategically on the job site, considering the installation sequence and minimising unnecessary movement. With large projects, coordinate phased deliveries to maintain an organised work area.

Tool and equipment readiness

Ensure all necessary tools are in good working condition. This includes post-hole diggers, augers, levels, saws, drills, shovels and concrete mixers. For efficiency, consider specialised tools like hydraulic post drivers or pneumatic nail guns.

Prepare backup tools to prevent delays from equipment failure. With large-scale projects, arrange for heavy machinery like mini-excavators or skid steers if needed.

Site preparation

Clear the fence line of any vegetation, rocks or debris. Mark underground utilities clearly and protect them during excavation. Set up string lines to ensure straight fence runs, using intermediate stakes on long stretches to prevent sagging. 

For sloped terrain, determine whether you will follow the contour or step the fence, and mark post locations accordingly.

Post-hole preparation

Marking exact locations and depths for post-hole digging. If using an auger, have pilot holes pre-dug to guide the auger accurately. Prepare a system for quickly checking hole depths and diameters to ensure consistency. 

Be sure to have gravel ready for drainage at the base of each hole.

Concrete mixing station

Set up a dedicated area for concrete mixing, ensuring it is close to water access if mixing on-site. If using ready-mix concrete, plan the delivery schedule to coincide with your post-setting pace. 

Prepare forms or tubes for post-setting if required by local codes or site conditions.

Panel preparation

For custom fence designs, pre-cut panels to size before beginning installation. Set up a cutting station with proper safety equipment. With pre-fabricated panels, inspect each for damage before installation. 

Prepare any necessary spacers or templates to ensure consistent picket spacing and height.

Hardware and fastener organisation

Organise all hardware and fasteners by type and size in clearly labelled containers. This prevents time wasted searching for the right screws or bolts. Ensure you have corrosion-resistant fasteners appropriate for the material and climate conditions.

What are Building Regulations for Fences?

Understanding regulations and codes in the UK is important for building fences. While fences are generally considered permitted development, there are several specific regulations and considerations to keep in mind. 

Party Wall Act 1996

This Act applies when building a fence on or near a boundary with a neighbouring property. While it does not typically apply to standard fencing, it may be relevant for the following.

• The fence requires deep foundations near the neighbour's property
• You are replacing an existing party fence wall

In these cases, you must notify neighbours and potentially enter into a Party Wall Agreement.

Right to light

The right to light is protected under common law and the Prescription Act 1832. Ensure that the fence does not unreasonably obstruct a neighbour's windows that have received light for 20 years or more.

Highways Act 1980

This Act outlines that any fence adjacent to a public highway must not obstruct the view of drivers or pedestrians. Local authorities have the power to require the removal or modification of fences that pose a visibility hazard.

Environmental considerations

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects nesting birds. It is illegal to disturb nesting birds. The timing of fence construction should be taken into account, avoiding work during the nesting season (usually February to August).

Material and construction standards

There are no specific building regulations for fence panels and posts. However, construction professionals should adhere to British Standards (BS). 

BS 1722: Specifies standards for different types of fences, including chain link, metal and timber fencing.

BS 8417: Covers preservation of wood for fencing.

BS EN 13241: Applies to gates and barrier systems.

How to Build a Fence: Advanced Techniques

Superior installation techniques ensure longevity, stability and appearance. Below, we cover methods on how to install fence panels, along with important considerations and accessories.

1. Advanced installation techniques

• Interlocking panel systems: Use tongue and groove or shiplap designs for wooden fences to create a seamless, weather-resistant barrier. This reduces gaps and increases overall fence stability.
• Post-and-rail with tension wire: For wire mesh fences, incorporate a tension wire running through the mesh and attached to each post. It adds strength and prevents sagging over time.
• Concrete or gravel boards: Install concrete boards or gravel boards at the base of wooden fences to prevent rot and extend the fence's lifespan. Overall, this is particularly useful in damp climates or areas prone to flooding.
• Pre-fabricated panel installation: For faster installation, use pre-fabricated panels. This requires precise post spacing but reduces on-site construction time.
• Mortise and tenon joinery: With wooden fences, use mortise and tenon joints to connect rails to posts. It provides superior strength and a refined appearance.

2. Key considerations when building a fence

• Soil composition analysis: Conduct a thorough soil analysis before installation. Various soil types require different approaches and may need soil amendments. 
• Wind load calculations: In areas prone to high winds, perform wind load calculations to determine the appropriate post size, spacing and depth. 
• Expansion and contraction: Account for material expansion and contraction. Leave appropriate gaps and use flexible sealants where necessary.
• Eco-friendly options: Consider sustainable materials and installation methods. This may include using recycled materials or water-permeable designs. 

3. Fence accessories and enhancements

• Trellis integration: Add trellis sections for added height. Use sturdy, weather-resistant materials like cedar or vinyl-coated metal. Ensure the fence structure supports the added weight and wind load of climbing plants.
• Decorative fence post caps: Install post caps to protect the end grain of wooden posts and add a finished look. These include solar-powered caps, copper or zinc caps for weather protection and decorative cast iron or aluminium caps.
• Integrated lighting systems: Install LED lighting systems within the fence structure. This may include recessed lights in posts or under post caps or strip lighting along rails.
• Custom hardware: Use high-quality, corrosion-resistant hardware. Consider options like black wrought iron hinges and latches for a traditional look or sleek stainless steel for modern designs.

4. Advanced post-setting techniques

• Helical pier systems: For challenging soil conditions, use helical piers (metal foundations) instead of traditional concrete footings. These screw-like foundations provide excellent stability with minimal soil disturbance.
• Adjustable post bases: Utilise adjustable post bases that allow for adjustment of post height and alignment after installation. This is particularly useful on uneven terrain.
• Concrete form tubes: For superior post stability, use concrete form tubes. These create a smooth concrete footing that resists frost heave better than irregular holes.

5. Quality control and finishing touches

• Laser alignment: Use laser levels to ensure perfect vertical and horizontal alignment throughout the fence run.
• Post-installation inspection: Conduct a thorough post-installation inspection, checking for level, plumb and secure connections. Use a tension gauge to check wire fencing for proper tightness.
• Professional finishing: Apply stains, sealants or paints designed specifically for fence materials. Consider factory-finished options for the most durable and consistent results.

Common Fence Building Mistakes to Avoid

Even as construction professionals, you encounter challenges during fence installation. Here are some common mistakes to avoid, along with solutions and preventative measures.

Improper post-hole depth and diameter

Digging post holes too shallow or narrow often results in unstable fencing. Follow the "1/3 plus 6" rule: dig holes 1/3 the height of the post plus 6 inches for gravel. The diameter should be 3 times the post width. 

When learning how to install concrete fence posts, ensure the hole is wide enough for at least 75mm of concrete. This provides the necessary stability for long-lasting fence installation.

Incorrect concrete mixing and pouring

Using improperly mixed concrete or pouring in unfavourable conditions may compromise the fence structure. Follow instructions for mixing ratios and avoid pouring concrete in freezing temperatures or heavy rain. 

Consider using fast-setting concrete for efficiency, but ensure it is appropriate for your climate. Allow enough curing time before continuing with fence installation.

Neglecting proper drainage

Failing to provide adequate drainage around posts can lead to premature rot or frost heave. Add 150mm of gravel at the bottom of each post hole to promote drainage. For areas with poor drainage, consider installing a French drain system along the fence line. 

It is a trench filled with gravel or rock that contains a perforated pipe to redirect water. Proper drainage is crucial for the longevity of fence posts.

Poor post alignment and spacing

Inconsistent post spacing or misaligned posts may result in a structurally weak fence. Use a string line to ensure straight alignment and space posts consistently, typically 6-8 feet apart. Use a plumb bob to check vertical alignment. 

When changing fence panels, ensure new panels fit the existing post spacing or adjust accordingly to maintain a uniform appearance.

Neglecting to account for ground slope

Installing panels parallel to the sloped ground can create gaps or an uneven top line. Use the step method on slopes, keeping the fence top-level while stepping down panels to follow the terrain. 

For severe slopes, consider custom-cut panels or specialised sloped fence systems. 

Using incorrect fasteners

Using non-galvanised or improperly sized fasteners may lead to premature failure of the fence structure. Always use hot-dipped galvanised or stainless steel fasteners appropriate for the fencing material. 

For composite fencing, use manufacturer-recommended specialised fasteners. This attention to detail greatly extends the life of the fence and maintains its structural integrity.