Have you been wanting to add a touch of classic charm to your yard? Look no further than the iconic picket fence! Not only does it enhance your home’s street appeal, but it also provides that extra bit of security for your outdoor living space.
At EziTimber, we’ve made building your own picket fence a breeze with our high-quality timber products and easy-to-follow guide.
Before you get stuck in, you’ll need to consider:
- Picket fence style: Choose your favourite picket design from the plain square, pointed Osbourne, or decorative Windsor style.
- Fence length: Use EziTimber’s handy Picket Fence Calculator to determine how many pickets you’ll need and how to space them out.
- Fence height: Choose from 900mm, 1200mm, 1500mm, or 1800mm length.
- Local regulations: Check with your local council for any permit or fencing height restrictions.
How to build a picket fence step by step
Whether you need more privacy, added safety for your kids and pets, or a quick fence replacement, this simple DIY project will help you add a classic feature to the front of your home.
What you’ll need:
- EziTimber pickets
- Fence posts
- Rails
- Shovel
- Saw
- Concrete mix
- Stainless steel screws
- Drill
- Level
- Tape measure
- Safety gear
Step 1. Plan your fence
Start by measuring and marking the area where you want to install the fence and use our Picket Fence Calculator to determine the exact number of pickets you’ll need and the ideal spacing.
You can mark the fence line using stakes and string to make sure you have a straight and even layout.
Choose a picket style and height that will suit your home’s aesthetic and your lifestyle needs. For more privacy and security, go for a higher fence and tighter spacing between your pickets.
Step 2. Setting up the posts
Dig holes for the posts, ensuring they’re deep enough and spaced evenly. Aim for a depth of at least 60cm and a width double the post diameter for extra stability.
Position the posts in the holes, ensuring they’re level and plumb. You can check this using your spirit level or a post level.
Fill the holes with concrete mix, packing it firmly around the base of each post, and allow the concrete to set completely.
Step 3. Attaching the rails
Using a saw, cut the rails to the desired length, ensuring they fit between each post.
Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, and secure the top rail to the posts using stainless steel screws for a strong connection.
Repeat if you want to add a bottom rail and create a framed structure for your pickets.
Step 4. Installing the pickets
Measure and mark even spacing for your pickets on both the top and bottom rails. Typical spacing ranges from 50mm to 100mm.
Pre-drill pilot holes in both the pickets and rails to prevent wood splitting. Screw the pickets securely to the rails from the back for a clean look.
Ensure the picket tops are aligned for a uniform fence line. For a finished touch, consider adding a capping board to the top rail. This provides additional weather protection and enhances the overall appearance.
Congratulations! You’ve just built a beautiful picket fence for your home. Now, you get to sit back and enjoy your upgraded outdoor space or get creative by adding a touch of paint or stain to really make it your own.
Build your perfect picket fence with EziTimber
Give your home a fresh, new look with EziTimber’s Cypress Pine pickets, available exclusively at Bunnings Warehouse. Chosen for its natural beauty and durability, Cypress Pine is the ideal timber for withstanding the harsh Sydney elements, ensuring your new fence not only looks great but lasts for years to come.
Head down to your nearest Bunnings store and pick up everything you need to build your picket fence and get your project started.
