How to Install Split Rail Fence

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Drive stakes into the ground using a mallet where you want the stacked fence to begin

   Connect the stakes using twine so that you can clearly see the length and path the fence is to take.
2. 2

   Step 2: where you want the fence to end and at any corners.

   Arrange the split rails in a zigzag pattern with the rails meeting at an angle between 60 degrees and 120 degrees
   -- the smaller the angle, the stronger the stacked fence.
   
   Place the first end of the first split rail on a stable rock to avoid rot and the second end on another rock situated according to creating the proper angle.
   
   Position the first end of the next split rail on top of the second end of the previous split rail so that there is at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) of overlap from both rails.
   
   Then place the second end of this rail on a rock.
   
   Set out the first layer of split rails until you have the whole bottom of the stacked fence outlined. ,, This will help with keeping the angles the same. ,, Do the same at the top of each set of poles. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Lay out the heaviest rails along the twine pathway you set up.

4. 4

   Step 4: Stack rails on the outline of the fence 1 layer at a time maintaining the lines and angles as evenly as possible.

5. 5

   Step 5: Wedge a rail upright as a fence pole on either side of each angle after the 3rd layer of split rails.

6. 6

   Step 6: Stack more layers of rails until you reach your desired height

7. 7

   Step 7: usually 4 to 6 layers.

8. 8

   Step 8: Wrap wire around the bottoms of both fence poles at each angle

9. 9

   Step 9: and use pliers to twist the ends of the wire until it bites into the wood.

10. 10

    Step 10: Clip the excess wire ends using wire cutters.

Detailed Guide

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