How to Build a Fence

5 Must-Know Fence Types (And Where They Fail)

1. Cedar Fences: The Rustic Charm

Best For: Privacy screens in dry climates
Avoid: Coastal areas (salt air accelerates rot)
Pro Tip: "Western red cedar lasts 3x longer than pine in humidity" - FPEC 2023 Durability Report
Cost: $25-$45/linear foot

2. Vinyl Fences: Low-Maintenance Myth?

Best For: Suburban yards with HOA restrictions
Avoid: Extreme temperature swings (cracks below 15°F)
Pro Tip: Buy UV-stabilized vinyl to prevent yellowing
Cost: $30-$60/linear foot

❄️ WARNING BOX ❄️
3 Materials That Fail in Freezing Climates:

1. Untreated pine (splits in 2 winters)
2. Thin-gauge aluminum (warps)
3. Composite materials (expand/contract)

The $300 DIY Starter Kit

1. Post hole digger ($45 rental/day)
2. 4-ft level ($22 at Harbor Freight)
3. Mason’s line ($8/500ft)
4. Speed Square ($15)
5. Cordless impact driver ($99 budget pick)

Pro Hack: Use our Soil Type Checker to avoid concrete overuse.

6-Step Installation (With Slope Solutions)

Step 3: Post Depth Secrets

• Texas: 36" minimum (clay soil)
• Minnesota: 48" below frost line
• California: 24" (earthquake safety)

Slope Fix: Use stepped fencing for >15° inclines

Local Law Showdown

🔍 Quick Quiz: Permit Puzzle
Q: Need a permit for a 5ft fence in Phoenix?
a) Always
b) Only if front yard
c) Never

Answer: b) City code Sec. 307.2 requires permits for front yard fencing

Cost-Slayer Case Study

How I Built a 50ft Cedar Fence for $897:

1. Used "rough-cut" cedar ($11/ftvs$23 retail)
2. Mixed concrete only for corner posts
3. Bought contractor returns at Lowe’s (40% off)

7 Deadly Sins of Fence Building

1. Ignoring underground utilities (811 hotline saves $2,500+ fines)
2. Using galvanized nails with cedar (causes tannin stains)
3. Forgetting 1" gap for wood expansion

2024 Material Cost Breakdown

Final Checklist

✅ Call 811 before digging
✅ Check frost line depth
✅ Apply for HOA approval template