M-Fence-C : Fencing information
How to erect close board fencing with gravel board:
(1) : Remove old fencing, cut back shrubs, establish the fence line with a taut string.
(2) : Assuming 6 ft tall fence, dig a hole to accomodate post plus atleast 2.5 inch gap for all sides of the post. Depth 2 ft in normal ground or 30 inches for soft conditions. Compact base. To set post at correct height, place gravel board in position and consider site levels (is the ground mostly level? does it climb? or drop? For serious elevation cut the gravelboard at the required angle. Aim to place this board at ground level + - 1 inch. Run with the ground, just try to make climbs and drops progressive. The post should have a short batten attached to it for gravel board height and correct position to be flush with post face.
(3) : Cut post to required length if necessary, place in centre of hole upright both ways. Aim to have a slight gap between string line and fence. Fill with 20mm ballast or equiv, 9 :1 cement ratio, reasonably dry. Ram / compact all 4 edges. Stop concrete mix 6'' below ground level, finish with stones / rocks + rammed soil.
(4) : Attach gravel board, prop to correct level as required. Remember the gravelboard should be 4'' shorter than the arris rails.Check postion in line and dig next hole.
(5) : With post hole to correct depth, position post to upright angle against the gravel board. Slide arris rails to centre of mortised post,(first to start post then to current), some hammering may be needed. Note that these rails often do not fit the holes and require some trimming and shaping either by electric plane or chainsaw (be careful when doing this). When set to correct position, nail rails, stopping short of completely in. Next nail gravelboard. Check line, move post as required, fill with concrete mix etc.
(6) : Boarding the fence: There are two choices, either do this immediately or leave for 36 hrs. If doing this straight away best to prop with struts or ram posts tight after hammering and check on level. When boarding use 50 mm galvanised nails. Set feather boards with 1'' overlap using spacer bar. Position nails to catch last board just be careful not to be too far out on edge or board will split. Keep nails to consistant level. Check uprightness of featheredge boards after every 6 boards.
Happy fencing!
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