Projects

Building an Alternate-Board Fence

Project Overview

Building an alternate-board fence.

9 Steps

BUILD THE STRUCTURE
Measure Rails
Level Rails
Hang Rails
Making Spacer

Cutting Boards
Level Boards
Level First Boards
Install Boards

Show all steps »

Step 1

BUILD THE STRUCTURE

Space the posts to match the width of the fence boards. Space the posts so that you can attach the fence boards without having to cut them to width. If necessary you can make small adjustments as you install the boards so that they'll fit on a standard 6- or 8-foot rail.

Step 2

Measure Rails

Laying out rails on the posts. Start at an end post and measure up from the ground to draw layout lines marking the location of each rail. Then transfer the layout lines to the other posts using a line level and mason’s line.

Step 3

Level Rails

Attaching rails to the posts. Rail hangers are easy to use – just place them on the line and nail them to the posts. Then slide the rails in and nail the side flanges into the rail.

Step 4

Hang Rails

Make a spacer. You’ll need a spacer that is as wide as the space between your boards. Screw a 2x2 block to the top of the spacer so that when you hang it from the rail, the top of the spacer is level with the top of the boards. Screw a small torpedo level to the spacer so that you can tell if the boards are plumb.

Step 5

Making Spacer

Lay out the bottom of the fence boards. Run a mason’s line between posts and level it at the desired height above the ground. The location of the line will affect the length of the vertical boards. Measure up from the mason’s line to the top of the post to determine the proper length of the fence boards.

Step 6

Cutting Boards

Cut the boards to length. Clamp two or three boards together and cut them at the same time to speed up the job.

Step 7

Level Boards

Put in the first board. Align a fence board with the mason’s line and butt it against the first post. Check that it is plumb and screw it to the rail with #8 2-inch deck screws.

Step 8

Level First Boards

Install boards on one side of the fence. Hang the spacer on the top rail and butt it against the first fence board. Butt a fence board against the spacer, check to make sure it’s plumb and screw the board to the rails. Work your way along the fence, positioning the spacer and screwing the boards in place.

Step 9

Install Boards

Install boards on the other side. Go to the other side of the fence. Put the spacer against the first post and install a board against the spacer. Install boards along the entire side until complete.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Intermediate

Time: 3 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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