How to Build a Fence - Part 1 (Post Setting)

I wanted to give a simple step by step on how to build your own fence. This is a 3 part series that will help outline the best way to achieve a strong fence, with the right type and size of dimensional lumber.
#howtobuildafence #settingafencepost #fences
For all the tools used please see links below:
100m Tape Measure - amzn.to/2Xq9us1
Post Hole Shovel - amzn.to/3cWmEDL
String Line - amzn.to/2XuMdFh
Shovel - amzn.to/2X14mvF
Tape Measure - amzn.to/3c7c4c0
Yard Marking Paint - amzn.to/3bXNXw5
Work Gloves - amzn.to/36uXUQM
Heated Vest - amzn.to/2yuDwT2
Post Hole Bar - amzn.to/2XvN6hb
6ft Level for setting posts - amzn.to/2ZyYOKp
Rapid Post Concrete Bag - amzn.to/2yux1j5
Please leave a comment below, I am happy to hear what questions or suggestions you may have.
For more information on what I am up to, check these social links below:
www.handcraftedbychrispalmer.com
Instagram: / handcraftedbych. .
Facebook / handcraftedby. .
Twitter: / handymanpalmer

[@bostonfamily09]

This is the video I've been looking for. After researching and reviewing so many other videos this is by far the best. Thanks for posting!

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Most welcome! Thank you!

[@bernardtoney6210]

Best 3 part series on youtube!! Thanks for your expertise. All the help i needed!

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Great to hear!

[@Masticas.]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmeryou didnt explain how to set the string correctly, how to get a straight line, how to tie the string. cmon bro this is a garbage instructions video for people who know nothing about construction.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@Masticas. you're comment is garbage. Follow the video, tie the string to a post at each end. Then match all your posts to the string line. You can't tie a knot, you're on another level of help buddy.

[@ericelam5656]

Fence line needs to be inline and pleasant to the eye looking down the line.. The #1 way without having to level each pole with a leveler would be string the top and bottom of the (2) preset end-post this way the alignment will be fool proof but you will still need to level side to side, the fence line will be 100% directly inline with the (2) end post. I could not find 1 video where 2 strings upper and lower is being used which is the most precise and efficient way of installing the fence post. I've been doing the 2 string alignment since I was 14 years old - 51 years. And I was taught this method by a 70 year old multi-millionaire contractor.

[@RaiderNation86]

What does multimillionaire matter?

[@ericelam5656]

@@RaiderNation86 your reply is a dumb reply, his million$ were built because of his perfection about his work. Self made validates he did something correctly, would you rather that I learned the best way to set a fence line was from a homeless man that didn't know shit? Liberals are everywhere, this is killing America.

[@Edit_the_edit]

@@RaiderNation86 that's how he afforded the second string...

[@youdontreallybelievethat]

@@Edit_the_edit 😂😂

[@Robinhood179]

Thats good to know actually. I’ll definitely do that when I put my fence in later this year.

[@lauraskillings88]

thanks so much for the video! are you able to explain how you created a peak to keep water away from the post?

[@rikkeles2331]

Thank you for the video! Very helpful and exactly what I was looking for. 😊. Luckily here in Florida we don't have to worry about frost lines or concrete in the posts.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Nope I sure hope you don't or our vacations would be pointless! Lol

[@O.D.J.tile865]

good job man 👍 .. thanks for sharing this helps me

[@O.D.J.tile865]

how long are the post? 10 lf?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Happy to help!

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@O.D.J.tile865 8ft on centre or less

[@ML-ks2lj]

You want that post in the center of the concrete too. The best you can any way. I like to fill the bottom of the holes with gravel or pea one as well. I have seen to manyposts sink because of being in edge of the footer.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Most definitely, and if you find yourself slightly off centre due to the spacing, you can always pull out a shovel to elongate that hole in the direction you need to keep your concrete evenly distributed around your posts! :)

[@romanp9555]

wouldn’t you want to add water between the concrete bags ?

[@kboston2552]

Im planning on doing a fence soon. Would there be any downside to filling the entire hole with concrete and finishing it it off with a slope away from the post(no dirt)?

[@Kairenovations]

why would you want to have a big pile of concrete around the post

[@JosiahJessen]

@@Kairenovations why would you want to have a big pile of dirt around the post

[@TheBlades2012]

Question, why add the post mix first? surely it wont soak through all of it as it dries out quickly? When I've done a fence I pour some water in and add mix and then add more water and give it a good dash with a tool etc. I always thought be doing it your way the water wont soak all the way through and it could have dry spot in the middle and only hardened around the edges and tops etc. Even though it would be a lot easier doing it your way...

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

So in this terrain it was a bog, the bottom of the holes were filled with water from the natural ground water seeping in. The whole yard is clay beyond 3ft, so the last foot of depth allowed for great saturation. Also, putting the mix in the bottom first will allow a base to the post, it's never caused any issued and that fence is still straight after 6 years plus.

[@PBunyanOx]

Thumbs up just for those guns.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

😆

[@irisponcedeleon2239]

Excellent! But, where on earth do you live 😳 that your frost line is 48"?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Anywhere the snow falls! Lol

[@davidquinn9676]

OK you convinced me. I live in NY, my frost line is 4 or 5 feet. I am not going to dig holes 6 or 7 feet deep. I'll just skip the concrete, slide my metal posts into the soil, and deal with the shifting as it goes.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

How did I convince you to not dig holes for concrete footings?

[@byondvision]

I'm in NY aswell and ur overthinking it, I'm trying to put up a fence for chicken wire to keep foxes out. We are not trying to build a foundation for a home lmao. Dig a foot and half down. Put 6inches of gravel or small backyard rocks. Insert 12inches of post, fill remainder of hole with concrete.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@byondvision I recommend you look into your bylaws or building codes. Frost line is a standard to prevent post upheaval. Sorry to burst your bubble, especially in NY - you have a nice cold winter like us in Ontario.

[@matthews852]

I can not find one video, anywhere, on how to ensure two gate posts are straight across from another and not angled slightly.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Use the technique to square a deck 3,4,5. Basically the 2 flats of the triangle measure 3 and 4 and your 5 is the length of the diagonal. Or simply use a 6ft level to flush your faces.

[@matthews852]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer Thank you..

[@RaiderNation86]

So my frost line is 24 , Should I make my holes 24 or 30inches?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

I suggest 48" and the only way to go less, is if you have specs from your geographical region stating otherwise.

[@mikesweet5848]

​@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer You ain't building a foundation to a home my guy. 24" is gonna be plenty for a 30 year fence idc if you live in Alaska.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@mikesweet5848 well Mike, I'm glad you are the OBC and create the code for building...oops wait, no you don't! Lol, try following the rules and guidelines put out, you may make a better Carpenter or whatever you want to be when you grow up 😆

[@mikesweet5848]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer I'm already at the top of my game so it would be hard to get any better. I quite literally build the nicest power gates in a metro of 3M people. Once again, you're building a 30 year fence not a foundation for a home. I know it gets a little confusing, but I would be shocked if you could cite a building code that says you need to pour 48" for a fence post lol you should hear yourself talk. It's always entertaining to see someone put out an instructional video and get ratioed, but take to the comments to try to clap back.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@mikesweet5848 listen, come up to our province where we standardized our post depths to be below frost lines. These subdivision style fences require 4ft due to the heaving of our spring season. If you're not geographically challenged, look up on the old Google Maps for some help to see where that is. And if you speak to any other Canadian builders, you'll likely get the same answer. Hopefully your fancy fences last where you build them Top Gun 🤣

[@johnkutz3207]

Thanks. But how do you level the TOPS of the posts? I didn't see any effort to ensure the tops are level (horizontal). Do you cut them after installation?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

I hold a speed square and cut them flush to match the plumb post.

[@rodric3005]

Aligning a string between the end posts works too

[@etodachine12]

What kind of posts did you use?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

6x6 pt

[@twistedpudding]

How do you align the height?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Typically you would measure off the ground for your height. I keep the post cuts all typical with 6" or 8" off the top plate board.

[@juarnlewis761]

stringline, with a spirit level attatchment, mark the 2 posts, or each individual post, and then use that as the mark to go off, when measuring up

[@tuaora6491]

Hi i have a question ^^ did you get a permits to build that

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

We don't require permits to rebuild fences. So, nope.

[@tuaora6491]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer where is that in california ?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@tuaora6491 Canada, not USA.

[@tuaora6491]

oh ok thank U

[@jacobgamble9786]

Watch for dry pockets in concrete … Crete that doesn’t get mixed … and run Crete just above ground level or water will rot out your post at the base in which the Crete hasn’t formed some kind of barrier or protection

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

The 6x6 posts have a special coating to prevent underground rot. So hopefully the concrete won't do anything it shouldn't.

[@uk1941]

That extra fence under ground is gonna make the project much more expensive. Not saying your'wrong but this is the first informative video that didn't say 2 feet.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Built better usually means more money 😉

[@warrenranstrom4462]

What’s your bicep routine?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Lol...I do enjoy the fitness world, but no bicep routine, just make sure to get the heart pumping everyday!

[@maurocazaresjr880]

Jaja, here I am looking at the video again to see the biceps

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@maurocazaresjr880 lol!

[@jeremyryan7632]

When you first started, how did you know that your string line (from point A to B) was straight?? Yes the string is straight because when you pull a string it becomes straight but it doesn’t mean the FENCE LINE is straight.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

It's marked by property stakes, metal spikes in the ground. You should have a survey with your home. The stakes and string line go in line with each other.

[@sexyma1983]

What is a frost Line? How do I find that out? I’m in Texas

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

There is likely no frost line in Texas, but talk to your local building dept.

[@hbomb_101]

So is the spacing between each post 8ft exactly?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

As close to as possible, usually 8ft on centre. So 2x6x8 lumber can be used and also makes for a stronger fence not spreading posts too far apart.

[@clownman9859]

um,,, the bobcat jacked up the grass,, was that an issue? lol! to offset that previous comment, great video and very informative pal 👍 👌

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Lol a little raking and seed it's all going to grow back, and thanks!

[@dh-in8qr]

you didn't list what type or where I get the right kind of gravel.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

It all depends on where you live. Its concrete post mix sold at all hardware stores here in Canada.

[@DearthVadar]

cheapest concrete 60lb or 90lb bags u can find @ HD works just as fine

[@brianwilliams8162]

You can tell he is intelligent

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

As wise man Homer J Simpson once said...."S M R T...I mean S M A R T!" 😄

[@nutthrower4415]

How do you know when you have enough water

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Fill a 5 gal. Pail if you want and pour that in. Essentially you mix it and if it feels too thick add more 😉 if its too runny...it will tame longer to set.

[@Paul-qq7mh]

Good size post holes but i don't know about the rapid set concrete tho.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Rapid set is so you can frame that day. It works mint!

[@jbaillie01]

Sorry im confused with the comment about existing holes. What's the issue ? Why wouldn't you use existing wholes specially if your going like for like or did I Hear that wrong

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Reason being the old holes are filled concrete and old posts unless you can remove them successfully

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Some old holes are poorly dug and create more work than making your new one as it could require double the concrete to fill. 👍

[@williamlewin9610]

I dug my post 2ft I live in Eastern Tennessee.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Yeah, can't say for sure what will happen....perhaps ask the fence guys what they typically dig. 2ft is shallow for any post. Tipping hazzard with a top heavy post.

[@williamlewin9610]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer I ran into a lot of slate rock it was almost impossible to dig any deeper.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@williamlewin9610 break out a chipping hammer SDS or mini jack. Otherwise you could put a mount into the rock like a footing.

[@deendoherty9674]

How can you add all the post mix then the water, the water will not reach the bottom and you'll just have a few inches of concrete.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

I add one bag to stabilize base of post and then mix and pour in the rest while adding water. The ground water rises up in these holes so it does get wet and sets up well. Not like pouring a deck footing.

[@Force5_Eye_Dev]

Quickrete says to add after right on the package. So if they say it’s good I’m sure you’re fine! 😁

[@internalinjectiontrulyhere6182]

Dem thread

[@retiredgenius]

Why don't any videos ever talk about how to make sure the string line is straight? Like there is not a single video that talks about that. It completely skips that part

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

How to keep it straight, pull it tight from end to end 😁

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

You need a site survey or a property stake to know where the line is between properties, after that set, your stakes where they need to land according to your bylaws and pull a string line tight. That's it. Then locate your 1st post and mark your post centre to centre distances.

[@kasonertmann4684]

You fucked that yard up with that bobcat 😂

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Sorry I didn't have the floating version to hover over the grass...of course it has track marks, that's what seed, sod and soil is for 🙃

[@yourlifeisyourfault.4212]

Nobody ever recommendeds having your utilities located first... I have multiple power, water, gas, cable & even a high pressure gas main line. Call for locate its free!

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

This is very true, but in the backyard there should be none as they are supposed to be coming to the front yard. 👌

[@yourlifeisyourfault.4212]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer I wonder how many People's last words are "Should be" or "supposed too"... I hear you But it's free & 48hr fast so why not.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@yourlifeisyourfault.4212 didn't disagree. Just stating backyards are not typical for locates to go to.

[@georgesedeno7891]

You mean plumb...not level...?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Plumb is vertically level 😉

[@georgesedeno7891]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer correct if you have a 3rd grade education.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

@@georgesedeno7891 I didn't learn anything of this in Grade 3, you must have gone to the school of higher learning! LOL

[@georgesedeno7891]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer exactly...being of the ilk of builders, where the correct terminology is important, where you have people trusting you, that Up means UP, and that Down means DOWN, accidents, serious injurying and death are avoided. Then and only then, when having mastered basically understood communication, then and only then can you impart the correct knowledge of the nomenclature within your grasp.

[@knilmot6667]

Those posts will eventually rot and fail at the soil line. You should have used metal Strong Ties as a base set in concrete and attached posts above grade.

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

This fence will outlive you. Ever seen an old farm fence? Ya, no steel there.

[@jackpinekid1]

Isn't that special

[@stevewilson3791]

Whats the name of the post hole digger?

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

It's a Honda 2 man auger.

[@brandonvandine1695]

Unhelpful

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Ungrateful 🤪

[@brandonvandine1695]

@@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer 🙄 right because I didn't care for your video I'm ungrateful right 🙄 step by step would be helpful you should be dam grateful that I wasted my tike and gave you a view. Without the views your channel goes away so I'd say you're the ungrateful one.

[@jseb2847]

You not explain anything

[@HandcraftedbyChrisPalmer]

Ok.