Is it possible to put up an entire fence in a weekend? Well, with careful planning, the right tools and the help of some friends, you bet it is. For the most part, this fencing project was a straightforward, standard build. I needed to construct a 6'-high perimeter fence around the side and backyard of a semi-detached home on a relatively level grade. What made this build unique was the material I was using: composite wood. I chose to use FenceScape, a composite fencing system manufactured by TimberTech. The material—made from a combination of wood and plastic—works very much like cedar fencing does, but has the added benefit of low maintenance. That’s right: no staining or sanding, and it will continue to look the same as the day it was installed with some easy cleaning each season. The material resists rotting, splintering and warping; and, unlike cedar, composite doesn’t expand and contract with seasonal moisture changes, so the boards can be butted together tightly for a true privacy fence. But you can use the components in any other configuration you’d like; the construction basics are the same. If you use cedar or pressure-treated lumber, you have one extra step: consider how you will finish the wood or if you will let it weather naturally.
Nothing beats the texture and colour of today’s composite fence boards. They are uniform in thickness and width, making them a breeze to work with. Plus, manufacturers make hardware, such as the rail brackets, to blend in and work seamlessly with the materials. The finished project will make you the envy of your neighbours from the outside; and from the inside of your fence, you’ll enjoy the privacy you and your family want.
Prep tips
If you want your weekend fence job to stay on schedule and not turn into a nightmare project, you need to be prepared. The organization done in the weeks prior to your project will make all the difference.
Some tasks to add to your to-do list:
- Talk to your neighbours: whether you want them to pony up for their portion or not, you should still tell them your plan (before they are woken up by the sound of the auger’s motor).
- Reserve the auger: to be sure you get the model you want, at the time you want and for the price you want, a rental reservation is always best.
- Call your local utilities: Before you dig, you need to find out where the pipes are buried around your home.
- Stock up the fridge: Food and beverages are key to keeping your helpers happy.
- Draw your plan: Mapping out your fence will not only help you as you work, it will also help you make calculations about how much materials, screws and other supplies you will need. It can cut down on the last-minute trips to the home-improvement store.—Jodi Avery MacLean
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