Instructions

1. Measure the area for the fence and draw a line using spray paint, or use stakes and strings to mark the area.
2. Starting at one corner, mark where you want the post to go.
3. Mark every 8 feet for the posts. Figure out where you want the gate to go and mark posts at least 4 feet apart. If you are using pre-made fencing, measure the length of the fence to know how far apart the posts need to be.
4. Using a post hole digger, dig out hole at least 15-18 inches deep.
5. Add a little screening gravel to the bottle of the hole and place the post down in the hole.
6. Make sure it is level.
7. While holding the post level (a second person is helpful, or creating braces using wood and stakes will do the trick), start layering dirt and screening rock, tapping it down well.
8. Keep layering and tapping it down until the post is secure and the dirt is level with the ground.
9. Continue doing this with each post until all of your posts are up.
10. Measure and cut 2×4 stringers to fit between each post.
11. You can use metal fence brackets or just screw the stringers directly to the posts.
12. Place one stringer about 4 inches off the ground, and then another about 24 inches from the ground.
13. Make sure the stringers are level before screwing them onto the posts.
14. Once you have all your stringers in place, it is time to start installing the pickets, starting at or near your post.
15. Place pickets 1″ off the ground 2.5″ apart.
16. Using a brad nailer, nail each picket into place 2.5 inches apart.
17. Once your fence has been completely installed, it is time to paint or stain.
18. Once the fence is dry, add post caps.