How to Build Fence Panels

The width and height of the wood used to build your fence panels can vary. This project uses a 5 1/2-inch wide by 4-foot high picket. For best results, choose pressure-treated lumber or another weather-resistant choice such as cedar or redwood. You’ll also need a jig saw, tape measure, plumb line or level, a post hole digger, drill, paint and exterior wood screws if you plan to make custom-sized fence panel.

From digging the post holes to installing the final picket, building a fence takes time. Consider making your wood fence in stages. Use one day to dig your postholes, and one to install your panels. Pick a third to stain or paint your new fence.

Tip: Look out for wires, pipes, drains and sprinkler lines as you dig. Call 811 before you dig to avoid buried utility lines.

Choose a shape for your boards. For a picket fence, opt for square, gothic, round or the classic pointed shape. Use a pre-made template or make your own.

• Trace the shape of the picket onto the lumber boards.
• Make cuts with a jigsaw.
• Cut the inside areas with a drill bit.
• Speed up the job by clamping several boards together. You can cut them at the same time.

A spacer is a piece of wood that makes sure you keep the same width between the boards in your fence panel. You can create a fence with close boards or wide-spaced ones. Here’s how to make a spacer:

• Cut a board that is 1/2-inch wide or wider.
• Screw a 2- x 2-inch block to the top of the spacer. This ensure the top of the spacer is level with the top of the boards when hanging it from the rail.
• Screw a small torpedo level to the spacer.

• Butt the spacer against the post.
• Place the first board flush against the spacer.
• Check the level to make sure the board is plumb.
• Screw the board to the top and bottom rail with #8 2-inch deck screws.

Tip: Always hang the boards for the fence a little above grass level. This will protect them from moisture so they last longer.

• Place the spacer against the first board.
• Position the next board flush with the first.
• Screw the board to the top and bottom rail with #8 2-inch deck screws.
• Continue installing the remaining boards, repeating the steps above.

Tip: Periodically check that the boards are plumb. Make adjustments as necessary.

• Protect your new fence with a stain or paint. This will help prevent moisture, rot and insect damage.
• Keep bushes and vines back from the fence.
• Depending on your region, refresh the finish every two years or so.