How to Build a Split Rail Fence
A split rail fence is one of the oldest methods of fencing, originating from the Old West days. The great thing about this type of fence is that it’s also easy to build, with just the help of raw materials and basic tools. If you want to construct this kind of fence, then read on.
What You’ll Need:
Rails
Posts
Gravel or sand
Saw
Post hole digger
String
Stake
Level
Power drill
Hole saw kit
Sharp knife or planer
Procedure:
Make sure that your area allows you to build a split rail fence. You also shouldn’t occupy space that belongs to your neighbors. Make sure you stay within your boundaries.
Get some stakes and string, and use them to mark the ground where you’re building the split rail fence. It should be located on your property line side. Measure the entire fence length and measure out where the posts will go in advance. Divide the length of the fence by the set length of your rails.
Prepare and pre-cut all the posts and rails for your split rail fence. You’ll have to drill holes at the bottom and top of the posts, using a power drill and hole saw kit. These holes will accommodate the rails.
Cut end posts. The holes in these do not go completely through the posts. Afterwards, cut corner posts. The holes in these are at right angles, from each other. As for the line posts, the holes go all the way through.
Use a post hole digger to dig all of the post holes. You need to dig enough so that at least 1/3 of the post is in the ground. Set the post in the ground, less than a foot down where the bottom rail connects. Provide an extra six inches in the hole’s bottom. You’ll pour the gravel or sand in here, to prevent water damage to the posts.
You have to start installing the posts for the split rail fence. Start with the end posts. When you’re done, line up each of the posts vertically using level and a string between the posts. Tamp back the extra soil into the post holes and keep making minor adjustments, to make sure the posts are plumb.
Put the rails in the posts. If you think a post hole isn’t big enough to accommodate a rail, use a knife or a planer and shave the end of the rail first. If it doesn’t work, then try drilling a larger hole in the post.
If you want a unique and old-fashioned addition to your space, build a split rail fence. It’s not hard to construct, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the result.