How to make your own timber fence

You're looking to build your own timber fence, and that's a fantastic decision! At HSW Timber, based here in Kent, we've been supplying quality fencing materials for years, and we often speak to customers who are keen to get stuck into a DIY project.

Building your own fence is a rewarding endeavour that allows you to tailor the design to your exact needs and can be a cost-effective alternative to professional installation. So, let's walk through the essential steps to help you create a sturdy and attractive timber fence that will stand the test of time.

Planning is Key: Measure Twice, Cut Once!

Before you even think about picking up a saw, thorough planning is paramount.

1. Define Your Boundary: Clearly mark out where your fence will go. Consider any property lines, easements, or existing structures. If you're sharing a boundary with a neighbour, it’s always good practice to discuss your plans with them beforehand.

2. Choose Your Fence Style: There's a wide variety of timber fencing styles, each offering different aesthetics and levels of privacy. Common options include:

   • Closeboard (Feather Edge): A very popular choice for privacy and security, using overlapping vertical boards.

   • Lap Panel: Pre-made panels, often the quickest to install, offering good privacy.

   • Picket: Classic, decorative fences, usually shorter and offering less privacy but a charming look.

   • Post and Rail: Ideal for larger, open spaces, often used for defining boundaries rather than privacy.

3. Measure and Calculate Materials: This is where you'll figure out what you need from us at HSW Timber.

   • Length: Measure the total length of your proposed fence in metres.

   • Post Spacing: A general rule of thumb is to space your fence posts at 1.8 to 2.4-metre intervals. For higher fences or in areas prone to strong winds, closer spacing is advisable.

   • Post Length: Posts should be long enough to be buried at least 600mm (2 feet) into the ground, plus the desired height of your fence. So, for a 1.8m (6ft) high fence, you'll need posts of at least 2.4m (8ft).

   • Number of Panels/Boards: Based on your length and post spacing, calculate how many fence panels or individual boards (for closeboard) you’ll need.

   • Rails: For closeboard fences, you'll need horizontal rails – typically two or three per fence section depending on height.

   • Gravel Boards: Highly recommended! These timber boards sit at the bottom of the fence, preventing the main fence panels or boards from coming into direct contact with the ground, significantly extending their lifespan by protecting against rot.

   • Postcrete/Concrete: For securing your posts firmly in the ground.

   • Fixings: Screws, nails, and possibly galvanised brackets or clips.

Getting Started: The Build Process

Once you have all your materials from HSW Timber, you’re ready to begin.

1. Mark Out Post Positions: Use string lines and stakes to accurately mark the line of your fence. Then, mark the exact positions for each post, using your calculated spacing.

2. Dig the Post Holes: Dig holes for your posts. They should be at least 600mm deep and typically three times the width of your post. The wider the base, the more stable the post.

3. Set the Posts:

   • Place a small amount of gravel at the bottom of each hole for drainage.

   • Insert your first corner post. Use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly vertical.

   • Mix your postcrete or concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions and pour it into the hole around the post. Ensure the concrete slopes away from the post at the top to shed water.

   • Brace the post securely to keep it plumb while the concrete sets (this can take a few hours to overnight, depending on the product).

   • Repeat this process for your next post, ensuring it's aligned with the first, and continue along your fence line. For long runs, set your end posts first, then run a string line between them to guide the placement of intermediate posts.

4. Attach Gravel Boards: Once the posts are secure, attach your gravel boards to the bottom of the posts. This lifts the fence panels or feather edge boards off the ground, preventing moisture ingress and rot. Fix them securely with galvanised screws.

5. Install Panels or Boards:

   • Panels: Lift each panel onto the gravel board and secure it to the posts using appropriate fence panel clips or screws. Ensure the panel is level before fixing.

   • Closeboard: For closeboard fencing, attach your horizontal rails between the posts. Then, systematically nail or screw the individual feather edge boards to these rails, ensuring they overlap correctly to create a solid barrier. Start from one end and work your way along.

6. Finishing Touches:

   • Post Caps: Consider adding post caps to protect the top of your posts from water ingress and add a decorative touch.

   • Treatment: While much of the timber we supply is pre-treated, an additional coat of timber preservative or paint will further enhance the lifespan and appearance of your fence.

Building your own fence is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your property. With the right materials from HSW Timber and a bit of planning and effort, you'll have a beautiful, long-lasting fence to be proud of. If you have any questions about materials or need advice during your project, don't hesitate to contact us!