How to Install an Aluminum Fence?

Answer 1

Aluminum fences are sturdy yard fences that often aren’t as difficult to install as chain link fences or wooden stockade fences. This article will show you how to install one in a series of easy to follow steps.

oLay out the fence line. This is essentially done by measuring from some reference point (such as your house) with a tape measure and marking the corners and post locations with stakes or markers of some sort. The post locations will be determined by the length of the fence sections. When you have the partial rectangle (or whatever shape) that your fence will describe, you can check it for square by measuring corner to corner. If your fence is square (i.e. corners are 90 degree angles), these diagonals will be the same. Make adjustments as necessary.

oDig post holes at the post locations. They should be around 24 inches deep and 18 inches in diameter. To test that the holes are the right width apart take one of the fence sections and lay it next to the holes, checking for correct distance.

oSet the posts in the holes. Do this by first mixing some post hole (or any ordinary) cement, putting a small amount in the bottom of the hole, and then setting the post into it.

oThen add the cement around the post, filling the hole up until it is a few inches from the top, and stabilizing the post in the cement. Use of carpenter’s level here to check that the post is plumb and level. Slope the concrete up to the post a little at the top for better water runoff. You will fill the remaining space with dirt when the cement is dry.

oGo back to the posts and recheck them for plumb and level. It is important that the concrete dries with them standing as straight up and down as possible.

oWhen the cement is dry, install the fence sections. With aluminum fences, there will be nuts and bolts that come with the fence that you will use to attach to the posts.

oFinally, install the fence gates. These also will screw and bolt on, and shouldn’t be too much harder than the sections. Make sure the gates swing well and latch and lock evenly.

That’s it, you’re done! Enjoy your aluminum fence.