Want to build your own fence? With these 5 practical tips, you can easily get started. Save costs, determine the design yourself, and ensure a solid end result. Here's an overview of what you need to do:
- Plan your fence layout: Measure your garden accurately, check building regulations, and mark the post positions.
- Choose the right materials: Consider wood, composite, or concrete, and use durable materials like stainless steel screws.
- Gather the right tools: Ensure you have measuring tools, a posthole digger, a cordless drill, and safety materials.
- Create solid foundations: Dig holes at least 60 cm deep, use quick-drying cement, and ensure the posts are level.
- Assemble the fence panels: Secure horizontal supports and panels accurately with enough space and a neat finish.
Important: Check for underground utilities through a KLIC notification and work step by step for a professional result. Good preparation prevents mistakes and ensures a durable fence that lasts for years.
1. Plan your fence layout
Careful planning of your fence is essential. Start by measuring your garden and decide where the fence will be placed.
Check building regulations:
- Height in back and side garden: maximum 2 meters
- Height in front garden: maximum 1 meter
- Fence on your property: at least 50 cm from the boundary
Create a scale drawing of your garden and note:
- Total length of the fence
- Where corners are needed
- Positions of the posts (usually every 1.5 to 2 meters)
- Obstacles like trees, pipes, or cables
Mark the post positions:
- Use marking stakes and a measuring tape to accurately set positions
- Check with a level to ensure the line is straight
- Ensure a post depth of at least 60 cm
Check underground utilities:
- Make a KLIC notification (at least 3 working days in advance)
- Verify the locations of gas, water, and electricity lines
- Adjust post positions if necessary
Measure everything carefully:
- Double-check your measurements before you start digging
- Use a tape measure and a laser or digital level for maximum precision
With a well-thought-out plan, you can proceed to selecting the right materials in the next step.
2. Choose the right fence materials
When selecting fence materials, consider durability, maintenance, and appearance.
Wood
Wood remains a popular choice due to its natural look and affordability:
- Pressure-treated pine: from €25/m², lasts 10–15 years
- Hardwood: from €45/m², lasts 20–25 years
- Thermally modified wood: from €55/m², lasts over 25 years
Want your wooden fence to last as long as possible? Pay attention to the following:
- Use wood with a PEFC or FSC label.
- Opt for pressure-treated posts (class 4).
- Planed planks provide a neat finish.
Composite
Composite is ideal if you want low maintenance:
- Low-maintenance and colorfast
- Lifetime of over 25 years
- Price: from €65/m²
- Available in various wood-look designs
Concrete elements
Concrete offers strength and stability:
- Concrete posts (dimensions: 10x10 cm or 11.5x11.5 cm)
- Ensure a ground anchorage of at least 60 cm deep
- A frost-resistant foundation is essential
- Price: from €15 per post
Fastening materials
The right fastening materials make a big difference in your fence's lifespan:
- Use stainless steel screws and bolts (at least A2 quality).
- Choose hot-dip galvanized post anchors and waterproof post caps.
- Ensure sturdy fence clips for extra stability.
Practical tip: Always order 10% extra material to account for cutting loss and unexpected situations. Use step 1 to precisely calculate what you need.
Store all materials in a dry place and check the base with a level to prevent warping. Then gather the necessary tools and proceed with setting the posts.
3. Gather the right tools
To work professionally, you need the right tools. Once your materials are in order, it's time to gather everything you'll need:
Measuring tools
- Tape measure: Choose one of at least 5 meters.
- Levels: A 60 cm one and a 180 cm one are useful.
- Marking stakes and string: For setting up straight lines.
- Marking spray or chalk line: For clear markings.
Digging tools
- Posthole digger: An ideal diameter of 15-20 cm, or use a spade.
- Shovel and wheelbarrow: For moving soil.
- Tamper: To firmly compact the soil.
You will also need power tools to speed up your work:
Power tools
- Cordless drill: At least 18V for sufficient power.
- Circular saw: Use a saw blade suitable for wood.
- Screwdriver: Ensure you have various bits.
- Extension cord: Essential if you don't have a nearby power outlet.
Hand tools
- Rubber mallet and claw hammer: For precision work and sturdiness.
- Screwdrivers: Have various sizes on hand.
- Wrenches: Suitable for sizes between 10-17 mm.
- Waterproof pencils: For markings that don't smudge.
- Work gloves: For protection and grip.
Assembly aids
- Clamps: At least four to hold materials in place.
- Sawhorses or trestles: For a stable workspace.
- Ladder or work platform: For working at height.
- Bucket: For mixing cement.
Practical tips:
- Check if batteries are charged and saw blades are sharp.
- Dry tools after use and store them in a dry place.
- Ensure your workspace is well organized.
If you have to work on heavy soil, you can rent a ground auger from a local rental company. This costs about €35–€45 per day.
Safety materials
- Safety goggles: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Hearing protection: Especially important with power tools.
- Protective gloves: For extra grip and safety.
- Safety shoes: Prevent injury from falling objects.
- Dust mask: Handy when sawing materials.
Check your list carefully before starting so you won't need to go to the hardware store halfway through. Ready? Then you can proceed with securely placing the posts.
4. Create solid foundations for your posts
Now that you have all the tools ready, it's time to build a solid base for the posts. A stable foundation ensures your fence will stand for years.
How deep should the posts be?
For a 180 cm high fence, the posts should be at least 60 cm deep in the ground. For taller fences or loose, sandy soil, 80 cm is better. Also consider the frost line in the Netherlands, which is at 60 cm.
Digging and preparing holes
The holes for the posts should meet these specifications:
- Diameter: 30-35 cm
- Depth: 60 cm
- Spacing: maximum 200 cm
For extra sturdiness:
- Ensure the bottom of the hole is flat.
- Compact the soil firmly.
- Place a 5 cm layer of gravel at the bottom for good water drainage.
The holes should be completely ready before pouring concrete.
Mixing and pouring concrete
Use quick-drying concrete to anchor the posts firmly:
- Mix the quick-drying concrete according to the instructions on the package.
- Use about 25 kg of concrete per hole.
- Add water until you have a firm, liquid mass.
Placing and aligning posts
- Place the post exactly in the center of the hole. Use two levels to check if the post is straight. Temporarily secure the post with clamps or props.
- Pour the concrete in layers of 15 cm.
- Compact each layer well to ensure the concrete is firm.
Important tips
- Let the concrete harden for at least 24 hours before assembling the fence panels.
- Protect fresh concrete from rain.
- Regularly check if the posts remain level during hardening.
- Fill the top 10 cm of the hole with soil for a neat finish.
What to do with different soil types?
| Soil type | Recommended depth | Additional measures |
|---|---|---|
| Clay soil | 60 cm | Add a layer of gravel |
| Sandy soil | 80 cm | Use extra concrete |
| Peat soil | 80 cm | Make the foundation wider |
With a solid foundation, you're ready for the next step: assembling the fence panels.
5. Assemble the fence panels
With a solid foundation, you can begin assembling the fence panels. Take your time and work accurately for a professional end result.
Preparation for assembly
Before starting the assembly, ensure that everything is well prepared:
- Check that the concrete is fully cured (at least 24 hours).
- Measure the distance between the posts to ensure correct placement.
- Gather all necessary fence panels and tools.
- Ensure you have help lifting heavy panels.
Attaching the horizontal supports
The horizontal supports form the basis for the fence panels. Here’s how to proceed:
- Use stainless steel screws (at least 5 x 70 mm) to secure the bottom and top supports firmly. Check with a level that they are straight.
- Place the bottom support 15 cm above the ground.
- Attach the top support 15 cm from the top of the post.
Placing the fence panels
Pay attention to the following points when assembling the fence panels:
| Attention point | Specification | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Spacing | 3-5 mm | To accommodate expansion due to moisture. |
| Distance to ground | 50 mm | Prevents wood rot. |
| Screw depth | 40-50 mm | Ensures optimal sturdiness. |
Handy tips for a neat result
- Work systematically from one side to the other.
- Use spacers to ensure equal spacing.
- Regularly check with a level.
- Pre-drill holes to prevent wood from splitting.
- Work with two people for precise placement.
Finishing
After assembling the fence, a proper finish is important:
- Treat all cut edges with wood sealer.
- Neatly finish screw holes.
- Check that all connections are securely fastened.
- Remove wood splinters and clean the fence.
- Prepare the fence for staining or painting.
Final checks
Walk along both sides of the fence and check that everything is sturdy, straight, and well-aligned. Test its strength by gently pushing against the fence. This ensures the end result is sturdy and durable.
Conclusion
Building a fence yourself is certainly doable for the enthusiastic DIYer. With the right preparation and structured approach, you can achieve a solid and tidy fence.
Pay close attention to the choice of materials and fastening components for a stable construction. Also, ensure a foundation of at least 60 cm deep to prevent issues such as leaning or sinking.
If you need extra help during the project, Bricknest offers extensive renovation support, including:
| Support | What's included |
|---|---|
| Personal project guidance | Expert guidance and coordination |
| Independent quality control | Professional craftsmanship inspection |
| Digital project management | Direct insight into progress |
With a 1-year warranty and coverage up to €500,000, you can start without worries. Bricknest takes care of everything: from cost estimation and material procurement to execution and aftercare.
A well-installed fence not only provides more privacy and enjoyment but can also increase the value of your home.
