Save money - DIY Aluminum fence tips
Deciding to install aluminum fence is a choice that already promises to save you money simply because of the material. Aluminum is light weight, durable under almost any conditions, and appealing to the eye. Of course, there are certain considerations to keep in mind when you shop for your aluminum fence (such as shipping costs, powder coating options, and accessories), but once you've decided on a style, color, and layout get that order in and your DIY aluminum fence will be there in 4 to 6 weeks. We'll walk through some of the planning steps in this article.
The reason so many people prefer DIY aluminum fence is because it's really not that difficult to do. All it requires is a little patience, some attention, and a friend to help you out. Before you order your fence you'll need to measure out exactly how much fence you'll need. Depending on the aluminum fence dealer, sections will come in either 7 or 8 feet lengths. Find out and then calculate how many lengths will be required to cover your entire perimeter. NOTE: Please remember that posts also add length to your fence, make sure you include them in your calculations.
Before you plant stakes around your perimeter, be sure to contact the local authorities and inquire into any specific permits required. When everything is in order, stake out your post positions, running a string from one to the other to make sure the line remains straight. Keep your string off the ground.
Post holes should be dug with a post-hole digger. You will require gravel, cement, sand, and all of the pieces for your aluminum fence. If you are installing a gate, be sure to dig the gate post holes first. These should typically be deeper than the other holes (48" should do it) because they carry more weight than other posts. From there move onto your corner posts. Once the corner posts are set and firmly packed in with gravel, slide your first fence section into place and secure it to the corner post. Attach your first line post and set it firmly in the holes, fill with cement, and continue. Once the fence is set and the cement has dried for a few days, hang your gates. That's it, your DIY aluminum fence is complete!
The reason so many people prefer DIY aluminum fence is because it's really not that difficult to do. All it requires is a little patience, some attention, and a friend to help you out. Before you order your fence you'll need to measure out exactly how much fence you'll need. Depending on the aluminum fence dealer, sections will come in either 7 or 8 feet lengths. Find out and then calculate how many lengths will be required to cover your entire perimeter. NOTE: Please remember that posts also add length to your fence, make sure you include them in your calculations.
Before you plant stakes around your perimeter, be sure to contact the local authorities and inquire into any specific permits required. When everything is in order, stake out your post positions, running a string from one to the other to make sure the line remains straight. Keep your string off the ground.
Post holes should be dug with a post-hole digger. You will require gravel, cement, sand, and all of the pieces for your aluminum fence. If you are installing a gate, be sure to dig the gate post holes first. These should typically be deeper than the other holes (48" should do it) because they carry more weight than other posts. From there move onto your corner posts. Once the corner posts are set and firmly packed in with gravel, slide your first fence section into place and secure it to the corner post. Attach your first line post and set it firmly in the holes, fill with cement, and continue. Once the fence is set and the cement has dried for a few days, hang your gates. That's it, your DIY aluminum fence is complete!
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