If you’re looking to add some privacy and security to your outdoor space, installing a closeboard fence is a great option. A closeboard fence provides a solid barrier that not only offers privacy but also enhances the appearance of your property. Whether you’re looking to create a private retreat, keep your pets and children safe, or simply improve the look of your home, a closeboard fence is a versatile and attractive solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing a closeboard fence, from preparing the site and selecting materials to hang the panels and adding the finishing touches. With the right tools, materials, and guidance, installing a closeboard fence can be a simple and rewarding project.
Before ordering materials, compare our closeboard fencing systems and use the garden measuring guide to confirm the length of each fence run.
Things Required
Before you start the installation process, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials and tools. Some of the materials you’ll need include:
- Fence posts
- Postcrete
- Gravel boards
- Closeboard fence panels
- Nails or screws
- Hinges and latch
- Spirit level
- Tape measure
- Shovel
- Posthole digger
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Power saw or hand saw
1. Plan Your Fence
The first step in installing a closeboard fence is to plan the location and layout of your fence. Determine how many panels you’ll need and measure the length and height of each panel. Make sure you have enough materials to complete the project, taking into account any cuts or adjustments you may need to make. It’s also a good idea to check local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before beginning the installation process.
2. Prepare the Ground
Once you’ve planned your fence, it’s time to prepare the ground. Remove any grass or weeds from the area where you’ll be installing the fence. This will make it easier to dig the postholes and ensure that the fence posts are secure. If you have trees, shrubs, or other obstacles in the way, you may need to remove them or work around them to install your fence.
3. Dig the Postholes
Using a posthole digger, dig holes for your fence posts. The holes should be deep enough to accommodate the length of the fence posts plus an additional 6 inches for postcrete. Make sure the holes are spaced evenly and at the same depth. This will ensure that your fence is level and stable. If you’re installing a gate, make sure to dig a hole for a gate post as well.
4. Install the Gravel Boards
Before you install the fence posts, place a gravel board at the bottom of each posthole. This will help protect the bottom of the fence posts from moisture and rot. Make sure the gravel boards are level and secure them in place with postcrete. The postcrete will help hold the gravel boards in place and keep the fence posts from shifting over time.
5. Install the Fence Posts
Insert the fence posts into the postholes and secure them in place with postcrete. Ensure that the posts are level and straight, using a spirit level to check. If the posts are not level, use additional postcrete to adjust their position. Allow the postcrete to set for 24 hours before continuing. This will give the postcrete time to harden and secure the fence posts in place.
6. Cut the Fence Panels to Size
Measure the distance between the fence posts and cut the closeboard fence panels to size. Make sure the panels are the same height and width. You can use a power saw or hand saw to make the cuts. If you’re installing a gate, you’ll need to cut a panel to size for the gate as well.
7. Attach the Fence Panels
Once the fence panels are cut to size, it’s time to attach them to the fence posts. Use hinges to attach the first panel to the first fence post. Then, attach the second panel to the second fence post, overlapping the first panel. Repeat this process until all of the panels are in place. Make sure the panels are level and secure, taking care not to overdrive the nails or screws.
8. Secure the Hinges and Latch
If you’re installing a gate, you’ll need to secure the hinges and latch. Attach the hinges to the gate post and the fence post, making sure they are level and secure. Install the latch according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test the gate to make sure it opens and closes smoothly.
9. Check for Level and Stability
Once all the panels are in place, check the fence for level and stability. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the fence is level and secure. Check the panels to make sure they are tightly attached to the fence posts. If there are any gaps between the panels, you can use wood filler to close them.
10. Finishing Touches
Finally, it’s time to add any finishing touches to your fence. If desired, you can paint or stain the fence to protect it from the elements and add a decorative touch. You can also add decorative post caps or fence toppers to add a finishing touch to your fence.
Bottom Line
If you are ready to price your project, compare the three main closeboard options:
- Timber closeboard fencing for a traditional all-timber system.
- Concrete-post closeboard fencing for a robust system with a concrete gravel board.
- Closeboard panel fencing when replaceable pre-made panels suit the project.
For help with measurements or site preparation, read our fence-post-hole guide. You can also review installation options or contact the team before ordering.
