Building Picket Fences: A Step-By-Step DIY Picket Fence Installation Guide

Looking to add charm and character to your home? This guide will take you through the entire process of building your own DIY picket fence, from planning to the final touches. Picket fence installation not only boosts your property’s curb appeal but also defines your boundaries beautifully. Whether you're aiming for a classic white picket fence or something more modern, our step-by-step instructions will help you get the job done right.

Your picket fence DIY project begins with detailed planning. By planning your installation, you will later enjoy the results of your hard work, knowing you have completed it properly.

The first task of building picket fences is measuring the area. Measuring ensures you purchase the correct amount of materials, which cuts down on waste and helps you visualise the result. It is a good idea to check local planning laws, as regulations may dictate the permissible height of your new fence. However, if you are replacing a fence already in situ, this is probably unnecessary. 

Next, decide on the style and height you need. Picket fencing is available in numerous styles (e.g. traditional, dog-eared, flat top and gothic) with neat and evenly spaced vertical boards. Choose a traditional picket fence with short, wide-spaced panels or pressure treated contemporary picket fencing. Your style will affect your privacy and garden aesthetics, so consider your needs carefully.

When choosing picket fence materials, opt for durability. Pressure treated picket fences will last longer than untreated; however, even pressure treated hardwood wood fences could decay and rot in the long-term (if not maintained correctly). Softwood, such as pine or conifers are cost-effective but will require much additional treatment and aftercare. Remember, choosing the right materials in the first instance will ensure your fence lasts.

Gather materials, tools, and supplies for building picket fences.

Preparation is key when building DIY picket fences. Preparing the site is crucial for smooth picket fence installation. Begin by clearing the area of rocks, roots and debris, then mark out your fence line. Drive a stake into the ground at each corner of the perimeter and run a line or string between them. The string is your guide and level, ensuring your fence is straight and inline (another method is to draw a line with spray paint).

Remember, a well-prepared site will pay dividends, setting a foundation for an appealing and structurally sound picket fence. Underestimate this step at your peril; a little effort here pays dividends overall.

The next step of building picket fences is vital: setting posts is important when building your picket fence, as it determines the structure’s stability and, in turn, longevity. Begin by driving fence post spikes into your marked fence line. If you are opting for concrete settings, begin by digging post holes.

Fence post holes should be a third as deep as the height of the posts (this is called the “one third rule”) and twice as wide. As an example, for a standard 6’ high fence, dig holes around two feet deep, and buy 8’ fence posts. This is general guidance, the precise depth for fence post holes is influenced by factors such as the fence height, soil type and local climatic conditions.

To make the process easier, you can use a post hole digger or electric auger (a spiral-shaped tool used to drill holes). Once the holes are dug, pour gravel into the base of the holes for drainage. This prevents rainwater from causing fence post rot.

Correct picket fence installation entails setting the posts in the holes and using a spirit level to ensure each post is straight. Spacing the posts evenly is crucial; typically, the fence posts should be six to eight feet apart, depending on the length of your panels and the materials you are using.

Once the fence posts are in position, fill the hole with concrete. Pour the concrete around the post, leaving a few inches at the top. A top tip is to slope the concrete away from the fence post to allow water to run off. This prevents water from pooling around the post and helps to prevent wood rot and post instability. Cure the concrete as per the manufacturer's instructions before attaching any panels.

After positioning the posts, fill the hole with concrete for stability. Pour the concrete around the post, leaving a few inches at the top. Slope the concrete away from the post to allow water to run off. Allow the concrete to cure (give the concrete mix time to harden) according to the manufacturer's instructions before attaching any fence panels. Taking time to set your fence posts properly will save you from future repairs and create a robust and sturdy picket fence that will stand the test of time.

Once your fence posts are secure, attach the horizontal rails. These will provide a robust framework for your DIY fence picket fence installation. Start by measuring the distance between posts and cut your rails to the correct length. Typically, classic picket fences have two horizontal rails: one near the top of the posts and one at the bottom.

Rails should be attached to the posts using screws designed for outdoor work; galvanised fixings are preferable for longevity. Aesthetically and practically, these fixings should be level and evenly spaced on the rails.

Next, measure the width of your picket planks and determine the spacing between them. You can use a spare picket plank to space it, that will ensure consistent gaps. Attach all the picket planks at one end and secure them to rails with outdoor screws or nails working your way along the fence lines making sure each picket is level.

Remember to step back and check the overall appearance regularly. Adjust as necessary to maintain a uniform look, making sure that the top rail is level. Building picket fences is easy with patience. Following our tips will result in a beautifully crafted fence that is functional and good-looking! Now, who does not want that?

Choosing pressure treated picket fencing panels is important, and maintenance is the key to extending the life of your DIY picket fence.

By taking these steps, you will ensure your picket fence remains robust and sturdy, adding to your home's appeal for years to come. A properly maintained picket fence is more than just a boundary; it reflects the care you put into your home.

Click on the link to find answers to our most frequently asked questions about our products, order process, and delivery. If you are still unable to find an answer to your question, please contact us (details below). We will do all we can to help.

Building a DIY picket fence is a popular project that enhances the look of your home and acts as a boundary deterrent to unwanted visitors. Following our step-by-step guide makes the picket fence installation a piece of cake or at least less challenging. By gathering all your materials and planning your site, you will soon achieve the country cottage look your home is crying out for. Soon, you will be building picket fences for your entire family and all your neighbours, that will teach you to become an expert!