Building a board on board fence is a classic choice for homeowners seeking a durable, attractive, and secure boundary. This traditional method involves vertically installing wide boards onto horizontal rails, creating a solid visual barrier that stands the test of time. Unlike picket fences, it offers significant privacy while maintaining a rustic charm that complements both formal and informal landscapes. The construction process, while requiring careful planning, is straightforward and accessible to DIY enthusiasts with basic carpentry skills.
Understanding the Board on Board Fence Style
The defining characteristic of this fence style is the close placement of vertical boards between two horizontal stringers. These boards are typically positioned so they overlap slightly, preventing gaps and ensuring a unified surface. This design effectively blocks the line of sight, making it an ideal solution for those prioritizing privacy. While the boards touch or nearly touch, they are not so close as to create a solid board fence, which lacks the visual rhythm of the board on board configuration.
Initial Planning and Measurement
Thorough planning is the cornerstone of a successful installation. Begin by consulting local zoning laws and homeowner association regulations to determine height restrictions and set-back requirements. Carefully measure the perimeter of your desired area, accounting for any corners or gates. Calculate the linear footage to determine the quantity of lumber needed, adding a 10% buffer for waste and cutting mistakes. Selecting the right wood is crucial; cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant and ideal for this style, though treated pine is a more budget-friendly alternative.
Required Tools and Materials
Gathering the correct tools and materials ensures efficiency and prevents delays. You will need posts, rails, and the vertical boards, along with concrete for setting the posts. Essential tools include a post hole digger or auger, a level, a tape measure, a saw, a drill, and a shovel. Hardware such as galvanized screws or nails, post base brackets, and concrete mix are also necessary. For alignment, a string line and batter boards are indispensable for maintaining a straight and even layout throughout the project.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Begin by marking the fence line and digging post holes at regular intervals, typically every 6 to 8 feet. Set the posts in concrete, ensuring they are plumb and level before the concrete cures. Once the posts are secure, attach the horizontal top and bottom rails to the interior side of the posts. With the framework complete, start installing the vertical boards at one end, aligning them consistently. Secure each board to the rails with screws, maintaining equal spacing at the top and bottom for a professional finish.
Ensuring Alignment and Consistency
A fence that looks crooked or uneven detracts from its overall appeal. To prevent this, use a string line as a guide before attaching any boards. When placing the vertical boards, keep a consistent gap between each one, typically between 1/8 inch and 1/4 inch, to accommodate wood expansion. Using spacers, such as scraps of wood, can help maintain this gap uniformly. Double-check that the top edges of the boards are level across the entire run to achieve a polished appearance.
Finishing Touches and Maintenance
After the final board is secured, inspect the entire structure for stability and alignment. Sand down any rough edges or splinters to ensure safety and comfort. Applying a stain or sealant is highly recommended, as it protects the wood from moisture, UV damage, and insect infestation. While a board on board fence is relatively low maintenance, a fresh coat of finish every few years will preserve its color and integrity, extending its lifespan for decades.
