How to build a picket fence

Building a picket fence here in Ireland has always been a popular way to add a bit of charm and character to your house.

A picket fence not only looks great but also serves as a functional barrier like any fence, providing privacy and security.

Whether you are building a picket fence for the first time or upgrading an existing one, our guide will provide you with everything you need to know to build a beautiful and durable fence.

Planning and Preparation

Before you start building your picket fence, you need to plan and prepare. First, work out the location of your fence and mark the boundary with stakes and string. You should also check if you have any restrictions in terms of the local council regulations or planning restrictions as some new developments do have restrictions in place concerning fences and boundary walls etc.

Next, measure the length of the fence and calculate the materials needed. To build a picket fence, you will need:

• Pickets (available as loose pickets if you are just repairing or replacing an existing picket fence)
• Rails – this treated timber is perfect
• Posts
• Cement
• Nails or screws
• Gate hardware (if applicable) and hinges if needed

Choose materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and suitable for our Irish climate. Pressure-treated lumber is a good option, but most people then choose to paint or treat it just to improve its appearance.

Building the Posts

The posts are the foundation of your fence, so it is important to ensure that they are sturdy and secure. Dig a hole for each post using a post hole digger or an auger. The holes should be at least 60cm and 15cm wider than the diameter of the post. Always check for pipework and cables underneath and this can be done with the local council.

Typically the distance between fence posts in an average picket fence is 1.8 metres.

Insert a post into each hole and fill the hole with cement. Use a level to ensure that the post is straight and plumb. Allow the cement to dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.

Installing the Rails

The rails are the horizontal members that connect the posts and provide support for the pickets. Measure the distance between the posts and cut the rails to length. Use these types of screws to attach the rails to the posts.

For added strength, install a diagonal brace between the top rail and the bottom rail on each end of the fence. Cut the brace to length and attach it to the top rail and the bottom rail using nails or screws.

Attaching the Pickets

The pickets are the vertical members that create the picket fence’s characteristic look. Measure the distance between the rails and mark the pickets accordingly. You can use a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut the pickets to length, or use a handsaw to save that extra expense if you don’t have a power tool.

Attach the pickets to the rails using nails or these types of screws. Leave a small gap between each picket to allow for expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes. A good tip is to take one of the pickets and turn it on its side and use that as the distance between each picket. This will keep everything uniform looking.

Building the Gate (if applicable)

If you are building a picket fence with a gate, it is important to ensure that the gate is sturdy and secure. Measure the distance between the posts and cut the gate frame to length. Use a nail gun or screws to assemble the frame.

Cut the pickets to length and attach them to the frame using nails or screws. Install the gate hardware, including hinges and a latch.

Painting or Staining the Fence

Once the fence is complete, it is time to add the finishing touch. Painting or staining the fence can protect it from the elements and enhance its appearance. Choose a paint or stain that is specifically formulated for exterior use and is suitable for the type of wood used in your fence.

Before applying the paint or stain, you can clean the fence thoroughly using a pressure washer or even just with a scrub brush and soap. Allow the fence to dry completely before applying the paint or stain.

Maintaining the Fence

To ensure that your picket fence lasts for years, it is important to maintain it regularly. Inspect the fence periodically for damage or wear and make any repairs necessary. You should also stain it or paint it again in a few years to keep it in top class condition.

All that is left to do is to stand back and admire your work!