How to build your own Wood Lattice Fence

Wood lattice fence

If you have ever wanted to build your own cedar wood lattice fence, then the following tips should help you own your way.

 

lattice fence

We even have a wonderful video to show the step-by-step method.

 

A cedar fence made of square lattice panels and chunky posts creates a decorative accent that will stand up to most climates. The following steps will assist you to build your own:

pythagorus

1)      First lay out the fence line using stakes, a mason line and tape measure

2)      Use the Pythagorus theorem to create a triangle with a 90 degree corner where the fence line meets the house

3)      Adjust the height of the fence line using a line level as a guide

4)      Dig a hole about 3 times the size of the post’s diameter and deep enough to go below the frost line. It is important to ensure that about 1/3rd of the post length should go below ground.

5)      To keep water from seeping between the post wood and the concrete, tape the post with self-adhesive flashing

6)      Pour about 6 inches of drainage stone and tap it down with the post. Add or subtract some of the drainage stones to get the correct height.

7)      Make sure your post is then plumb

8)      Pour dry concrete mix around the hole and the post. Pour water into the hole and mix it up (You can also mix it up separately and pour in the concrete once mixed)

9)      Next – cut and rib the sleeve pieces. Use a cutlass to build different sleeves for the middle post, the end post or the corner posts.

10)   Assemble each sleeve with poly-urethane glue and nails, except for the top blocks which you need to set aside.

11)   Next – slide the sleeve over the post and screw the sleeve in place, making sure that it is flush with the top of the post.

12)   To create the fence panel, rip ¾ inch strips, then cut the strips and 2 by 4s to size to create the frame.

13)   Screw the stops to the 2 by 4s using spacers to set them back ¾ of an inch from the front edge of each board and make sure it’s centred along the length.

14)   Drill drainage holes in the bottom frame piece and then screw the side pieces between the top and bottom pieces to complete the frame.

lattice15)   Use a circular saw to cut the lattice panel to size and then fit the panel into the frame.

16)   Screw stops to the top and bottom boards to sandwich the lattice in place.

17)   Butt the panel against the first post to locate the position of the second post.

18)   Dig the second post hole and add drainage stones as per previous steps and then position the post.

19)   Attach the panels to the posts by driving screws through the frame and into the posts on the back side of the lattice

20)   Check that the panel is level and add concrete and water to set the post in position. Allow the second post to set undisturbed – which usually will take over 45 minutes or so.

21)   Continue using your panels to set and space the next set of posts.

caps22)   Once all the posts and panels are installed, secure the side stops and upper support blocks

23)   Scribe and cut a cap rail to fit between the posts on top of each panel

24)   Secure the cap rails and post caps with a poly-urethane construction adhesive or secure them in place with a nail gun

 

Once the last cap is secured, add some foliage and other plants, step back and admire your handy work. A Wooden lattice fence will definitely add some newfound curb appeal to your home.

Take a look at the video which provides some further hints and steps.