Seven Steps to a Split Rail Fence

Split rail fences have long been used to mark property boundaries on large tracts of land. When privacy or security is not needed, split rail fencing are an inexpensive way to add definition and rustic style to a yard or garden. Plus, if your a DIY type, they're fairly simple to build--they don't require any nails or other fasteners.

Here's how to build a split rail fence in seven steps:

1. Check for underground utilities. One simple phone call is all it takes to ensure you don't hit a pipe or power line while digging.

2. Plan your fence layout. Lay string around the area where you plan to build your fence, then measure the string with a measuring tape to find out how long your fence will be. (This is a good point at which to discuss your fence build with neighbors who share a property line with you.)

3. Divide by ten. Most split rails measure ten feet long, so dividing the length of your fence by ten should let you know how many rails and posts you will need. You may need to add or subtract length.

4. Gather your supplies. Pre-cut rails and posts are usually available at the hardware store. This is a good time to talk through your project with an expert who can give you tips. You'll also need a shovel or digging bar, a hand-held auger, a measuring tape, a level and some string.

5. Mark where the posts go. Use a rail as a guide to mark the ground where each post will be set.

6. Dig holes. Most split rail fence posts are put at least two feet into the ground, but the exact depth will depend on how tall you want the posts. A hand-held auger is the easiest way to dig.

7. Assemble your fence. Place each post into its hole, filling in the remainder and tamping the dirt down firmly. Insert the bottom rail first, then the top rail, and make sure the post remains level. Then move on to the next post.

A split rail fence makes a great accent to your yard, without requiring as much money or time as another fence might. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you built it yourself.

Shield Your Fence from Northwest Weather

The Pacific Northwest’s gorgeous scenery and surroundings make it a beautiful place to live. Yet there’s one caveat for all that natural beauty – the rain!

Whether it’s a drizzle or a downpour, rain is a constant concern on every Northwestern citizen’s mind. For cedar fence owners, the rain can be a real threat to the longevity of a newly installed fence.

To keep all that precipitation from raining on your parade, put these core maintenance tips into practice and preserve your fence for many seasons to come:

1. Protect Before You Build

Preserving your cedar fence begins before it’s even installed. Before you start any work, examine the building site for any tree roots, rocks, concrete, or other solid obstructions that could be obstacles for the planned fence path.

When you’re setting your fence posts with concrete, don’t use more than you need to fill the hole. When temperatures drop below freezing, the ground can push up any excess concrete, causing severe damage to the fence’s stability.

2. Look Out Above!

Airborne hazards are an often overlooked aspect of protecting your fence. Keep these tips in mind to guard your fence from attacks from above.

• Before winter sets in, remove any dangling tree branches hanging over your fence line. Frozen branches can scrape the fence boards, and heavier branches can fall and cause significant damage.
• Clear out any leaves, acorns, twigs or other material wedged between the rails and fence boards. Organic matter can speed up wood rot when in close contact with fencing materials.
• Take care to remove any debris covering up the concrete post supports. Any dirt or mud can increase the chances of decay setting into the concrete.

3. Inspect Regularly

Inspections at regular intervals are a great way to keep your wood fence free of potential trouble spots. Get in the habit of checking on your fence when the seasons change to catch any problems before they spread.

• Broken or cracking boards, crooked nails or splinters should be addressed as soon as possible.
• Trim any grass that borders the fence to keep it from spreading rot to the fence boards or posts.
• Check your fence at the end of winter for knotholes. Knotholes can fall out of the fence itself, giving the opportunity for insects, termites, or birds to move in.

4. Use a Fence Stain

Coating your cedar fence in a protective fence stain is paramount to keeping it around for a long time. Because of the heavy rainfall, consider using a stain formulated especially for the Pacific Northwest. Re-stain your fence if you notice the protective coloring is fading.

5. Post-Storm Care

As we know by now, rain causes the most widespread kinds of damage to Northwest wood fences. This is most evident immediately after strong storms.

To avoid any unwanted surprises, check your fence after major storms to make sure it’s in good condition. A helpful tip is to run a piece of string along the tops of the fence posts. If the string appears level, your posts are secure.

By keeping on top of your cedar fence’s condition, you can prevent the rain from wreaking havoc on your wood fence and keep it looking brand new—no matter what the weather throws at you.