Need a fence? It's easier than you think
Before shrieking in horror upon thinking about your last construction project gone terribly wrong, consider the satisfaction you'll receive from knowing what you built yourself will keep your dog out of the neighbor's flower garden. Or better yet, keep their mutt out of yours.
DAVID HAUT GateHouse Plus

Everyone needs a fence.

Perhaps, like many families, you have a pet. Maybe it's a dog that escapes the backyard, looking for plunder beneath the neighbor's vegetable garden?

Maybe you want a specific boundary in which to define your yard?

Or maybe it's a matter of simply adding an elegant touch to a home that will help increase its overall property value?

There are, indeed, a variety of reasons for adding a fence. Perhaps one of the most appealing things about this particular home project is that you can do it with your own two hands.

Before shrieking in horror upon thinking about your last construction project gone terribly wrong - you know, in which you nailed the sleeve of your favorite work shirt to a 2x4 and screamed curses within earshot of the neighbor's daughter - consider the satisfaction you'll receive from knowing what you built yourself will keep your dog out of the neighbor's flower garden. Or better yet, keep their mutt out of yours.

Intrigued? Here's how you start. First, draw up an initial design. Ask yourself what you want.

These days, there are numerous designs to choose from: chain link, wood, vinyl, etc.

Next, check local building or zoning codes. Some communities have height, material or distance requirements. Checking now will save tremendous hassle later.

Measure off the area by marking post locations that'll help your predict where the holes should go.

The experts recommend six to seven feet distance per post. Once you're sure of where you want to dig, have the lines checked. Breaking underground pipes or wires means you're without water, electricity, telephone or cable.

Or it means your neighbors are without those things. Also make sure your boundary line is actually on your boundary line, and hasn't dipped over onto the neighbor's property. The last thing you want to see happen is constructing a beautiful fence, then tearing it down and having to remove it after complaints.

After an initial design has been sketched, complete with measurements, head to a local home improvement or lumberyard. If your retailer has builder's software, they should be able to give you accurate estimates on lumber and materials.

Any lumber supplier should be able to give you an estimate if you bring along specific measurements.

When it's time for the work to begin, the hardest part comes first. Digging holes is perhaps the most dreaded job, due to its intensive labor. If you're willing to spend the cash for ease, rent a posthole digger.

Place posts squarely in the ground and add concrete. Be sure posts remain level. This may require stakes or the aid of a carefully placed shovel leaning against one side.

Next, attach the rails. Again, the level for the rails is extremely important, as they are the guides for the fence. Taking your time is key here. Building a fence is considered difficult because of the time involved, not because of carpentry skill.

Once the rails are in place, it's time to finish with the fencing board.

Remember, your fence will reflect how much time you spend on it. Measure and level the boards. Doing so will result in a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing fence. Adding these boards will take time, especially if the fence is large. Just remember to be patient.

Finish off the fence with a gate, which should be included in your initial plan.

Gate doors can be purchased by themselves or built along the same lines as the fence, perhaps with a little extra decoration, depending on your particular style.

Building a fence is easily a project anyone can tackle, as long as they use patience. The job may take a couple of days, but the personal satisfaction and added property value will make it worth the time, money and effort.