A DIY fence project can help a homeowner save money on installation costs, though an investment of time will be necessary to complete the project properly. Plenty of planning is necessary before the first post hole is even dug, and it will be necessary to measure and then re-measure the path of the DIY fence to ensure the homeowner buys the correct amount of materials. It may be necessary to locate property boundary markers, and it will definitely be necessary to find out local laws and codes regarding the placement of fences in relation to neighboring properties.
Once the land has been properly measured and the placement of the fence has been determined, the homeowner will need to decide what type of DIY fence he or she wants to build. The materials available for fence construction vary significantly, and some materials are better than others for certain purposes. The design of the fence itself can also have an impact on its usefulness and appearance, so the homeowner will need to research materials and designs carefully before purchasing. It is important to remember that some DIY fence materials are more expensive than others, but the investment may well be worth the cost if the fence performs as needed.
The hardware used to construct the fence is just as important as the DIY fencing materials. Hardware such as screws, nails, hinges, and so on are often the first components of the fence to break down, which means the strength and stability of the fence will be compromised. It is extremely important to use high-quality hardware for a DIY fence project; galvanized screws and nails, or other weather-resistant hardware, should be used only. Hardware that will rust quickly will not only make the fence look ugly, but it will also compromise the overall strength of the fence.
Vinyl fencing is a relatively new offering that is attractive, low-maintenance, and resistant to water and other weather damage. Installing a vinyl fence, however, can be somewhat difficult, as the construction tolerances are quite tight. The posts and panels will need to be measured very carefully, because unlike a wooden fence that can be cut on site, a vinyl fence cannot be cut or altered during the installation process. If the panels are installed too loosely, they may fall out, and if they are installed too tightly, they can buckle, warp, or crack.
