Dreaming of Some Backyard Privacy? Time to Get Handy!
Have you been longing to let your hair down while sipping margaritas in the hot tub without worrying about neighbors catching an eyeful? Or do you need to contain Fido’s escapades crossing into the community garden? Well, my friend, an aluminum fence may be the affordable DIY project that makes your backyard oasis visions come true!
Unlike complicated masonry or wrought iron designs, prefab aluminum fencing installs easily with everyday tools and materials. While hiring a pro can cost over $20 per linear foot, taking on the installation yourself saves big time. And since aluminum stands up to weather without rust or rot, your fence will keep unsightly views out for years.
Intrigued? Read on as we walk through each step to transform your home into a private backyard sanctuary!
Mapping Out Your Aluminum Fence Fantasy
An artfully placed aluminum fence lends charm along with privacy. So before digging the first post hole, consider how to optimize both aesthetics and function.
Brainstorming Fence Purpose and Placement
Determine what issues the fence aims to solve. Are you defining property lines, keeping pets contained, or focusing solely on privacy? The purpose will guide decisions from height to style.
For instance, a 4-foot-high boundary fence meets most code requirements while a 6-foot privacy barrier blocks ground-level views. And while a picket-style fence suits cottage charm, alternating boards provide the most opaque coverage.
Also think ahead 10 years from now. Will a row of fast-growing arborvitae shrubs eventually provide natural screening? Take mature size and views into account when mapping fence placement.
Checking Local Building Codes and Permit Needs
Unlike interior remodels, exterior structures clearly visible from the street may fall under neighborhood rules. Search online for your city name plus “fence codes” to uncover details like:
- Height limits – typically 4 to 8 feet
- Setback minimums from property lines
- Preferences for neutral colors and materials
- Permits needing approval before digging
Depending on complexity, some aluminum fence projects skip permit paperwork. But confirming requirements now prevents hassle later if inspectors come knocking with issues to resolve.
Informing Neighbors of Fence Plan Intentions
Installing a fence impacts more than just your own property. Be sure to give adjacent homeowners a heads up, explaining benefits like privacy and security fence barriers provide everyone.
If possible, share a plot map with fence placement marked and set an install date 1-2 weeks out. This gives neighbors lead time to voice any major concerns, which you can then try to resolve together through compromise.
Approaching fence projects collaboratively paves the way for an ongoing friendly rapport long after the install crew drives away!
Preparing Your Site and Gathering DIY Fencing Materials
With aesthetics and regulations addressed, now the real aluminum fence fun begins! Start by prepping the install site and ordering materials.
Clearing Ground Along the Fence Line
Mark fence perimeter with stakes and strings. Then scrutinize inches beyond for vegetation blocking proper installation.
Remove shrubbery or bushes up to a foot within the planned fence line. Having ample space simplifies digging straight post holes and embedding fence post concrete bases. But beware of unwelcome surprises like poison ivy lurking out of sight in mature ground cover!
Assembling Must-Have DIY Fencing Tools
A basic starter kit for installing aluminum fencing includes:
- Tape measure
- Shovels and post hole diggers
- 4-foot Level
- Carpenters pencil
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Circular or reciprocating saw
- Drill with bits
- Wrenches for bolts
You’ll also need wheelbarrows, concrete mix, gravel, and fast-setting cement unless hiring mixing delivery. Coordinate with additional helpers accordingly.
Ordering Aluminum Fence Posts, Panels, and Gates
DIY-friendly aluminum fencing is sold as complete kits with matching components for straightforward assembly. Provide the supplier with your site measurements so materials arrive precut for perfect fittings.
Typical kit essentials include:
- Aluminum fence posts – corner, end, and line posts plus gate posts
- Aluminum fence panels and gate sections
- Gate hinges, latches and stops
- Post caps and trim
- Concrete fasteners
- Bolts, screws, and fasteners
Many kits also offer accessories like privacy slats to fill fence panel gaps. Make sure to order everything needed for smooth installing in one shipment.
Digging Fence Post Holes & Setting Posts in Concrete
Install day arrives! Now the visible fence framework starts taking shape as you dig holes and set posts.
Marking Hole Locations Based on Panel Dimensions
Map out post hole positions based on panel sizes, normally 6-feet wide. Factor in corner, end, and gate post placements first. Use strings and tape measure to align the remaining holes in between.
- Pro Tip: Allow up to 8-inch spacing between fence panels for easiest bolting together.
Digging Holes for Fence Posts
Hole diameter and depth depends on fence height, post size, and soil. But generally, go at least 1/3 of post length deep and 3 times its width around. Add 6-inches of gravel in bottom for drainage before inserting posts.
Busting through compacted earth takes muscle power. Trade off tasks if able. Sharpened shovels slice easier than dull flat blades.
Standing & Leveling Aluminum Fence Posts
For straight professional results, use builder’s level for precision alignment. Place level on two adjacent post sides, adjusting until perfect plumb.
Pour dry concrete mix around base. Then slowly add water while helper holds post position steady. Often easier with two sets of hands!
Allowing Concrete Fence Post Footings to Cure
Drying times vary by weather (longer in cool damp climates). But generally plan for concrete fence posts to fully cure 1-2 days minimum before attaching panels. Installing connectors too early risks loosening post stability. Be patient!
Now grab a cold drink while materials solidify. You deserve a break after all that digging!
Can the Installation of an Aluminum Fence Affect Electrical Safety?
When installing an aluminum fence, it’s important to ensure that the electrical safety is not compromised. One way to do this is by testing the electric fence with a multimeter. This will help identify any potential electrical issues and ensure the safety of the fence installation.
Installing Aluminum Fence Panels Between Posts
The messy, muscle-straining install tasks are done! Adding panels is the satisfying climax after hours prepping holes and waiting for footings to harden.
Bolting Aluminum Panels Between Posts
Attaching aluminum fence panels is a speedy step compared to mixing 60-pound bags of concrete by hand!
Use provided hardware to bolt pre-drilled panels between posts. Start in less visible areas in case needing to tweak alignment.
*Tip: Set posts precisely 8 inches apart for easiest panel connections.
Cutting Panels to Fit With Hacksaw
The last span may not match standard factory sizes. Measure gap and mark cut line with carpenters pencil. Remove 1 inch to allow room for end post connections.
Clamp panel securely. Then use hacksaw to slice through aluminum along marked line. Deburr edges with file.
Hanging and Aligning Aluminum Gates
Connect prefab gates between hinge posts, positioning with fence line. Adjust until level and only 1-2 inch gap below for spacing. Proper gate hangs allows smooth latching and swinging open without scraping ground.
Bolt gate stops across from hinges unless walk-through area. Test latch functionality several times once fully installed.
Celebrate Successfully Installing Your Aluminum Fence!
Congratulations – now step back and admire your privacy fencing handiwork! Installing aluminum fencing takes planning and elbow grease. But saving on pro labor gives your wallet a welcome break while crafting a gorgeous new backyard.
Sling some steaks on the grill, pop open a round of cold ones, fill the hot tub, then relax knowing fences make great neighbors! No more peeking toms squinting through the slats. Here’s to kicking back in private paradise for years to come!