Are you a DIY enthusiast looking to build a fence? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you have the necessary materials on hand or are planning to acquire them, this guide will provide you with the essential steps on how to build a fence in Monmouth County, NJ.
Contact Your Local Utility Company
Before commencing any digging, it’s often considered crucial to reach out to your local utility company. Following the “call before you dig” requirement, contact New Jersey One Call at 811 or 800-272-1000 at least three business days in advance. A representative will visit your site and mark the locations of underground utility lines using paint, flags, or stakes color-coded to indicate different types of utilities like gas lines, cable television, sewer lines, and electrical lines.
Verify Your Property Line
To avoid potential disputes with neighbors, placing your fence 6 inches to 1 foot from the property line is usually advised. If you intend to set it closer, you may need written consent from your neighbor. Consider contacting a surveyor or your local municipality to accurately verify your property line before you begin construction.
Check Local Zoning Laws and Restrictions
To ensure compliance with local regulations, be mindful of zoning laws and restrictions that may be in place. For instance, in New Jersey, residential fences must not exceed a height of 6 feet from ground level in the background or 4 feet from ground level in the front yard. Conduct a quick Google search or consult local authorities to determine any specific restrictions that apply to your property.
Mark Out Your Fence Location
Using string and line stakes, mark the desired location for your new fence. This step is typically done before ordering materials, as well as before having utilities marked and obtaining any necessary permits.
Start with Gate Posts
For a properly functioning gate, installing the fence gate posts first is essential. Dig post holes with a diameter of 10 inches for 5-inch posts. Secure the gate post by layering gravel at the bottom and adding a layer of cement on top. Ensure the post is installed plumb and level. Taking advantage of pre-routed posts in the ActiveYards system can make fence-building smoother for many DIYers.
Insert Bottom Rail, Panels, and Top Rail
After securing the gate post, insert the bottom rail into the pre-routed post and connect it to the adjacent fence post. Proceed by attaching the U-channel and installing the fence panel board by board. Thanks to ActiveYards GlideLock technology, the boards easily snap together, expediting the installation process. Once all the panels are in place, insert the top rail into the first post, positioning it over the top of the panels. Finally, insert the top rail into the top pre-routed hole on the fence post, and make sure to level and secure the post.
Repeat the Process Until Completion
Completing one entire section of your fence, repeat the same process until it is fully constructed. By repeating the steps consistently, you can ensure a uniform and secure fence installation.
Seek Professional Assistance
If you encounter any challenges or have further questions regarding building your fence, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from your local fence supplier. They have the expertise to guide you through the process and provide valuable advice based on their experience. With these step-by-step instructions, you can embark on your fence-building project. Good luck, and enjoy the process of creating a beautiful and functional fence for your property!
