How To Install Fence Panels? 

What to Know Before Installing Fence Panels? 

Check the boundary lines of your property so you know the amount of space you have to work with. Using a cable avoidance tool (CAT) is important before beginning installation to detect any cables or pipes that could be underground. You will also need to gather all the tools such as panels, fast set postfix, a spirit level, hammer, screwdriver, fencing clips, post hole digger, goggles, gloves and anything else that may be specific to your fence. Having all the tools ready beforehand will make for a smoother process. You’re also going to want a helping hand, as installing fence panels is not a one person job. Thankfully, the experts at Timber Yard Direct have all the necessary posts and fixings to make this job a breeze.  

Installing Your Fence   

Now that you’ve done the necessary legwork, completed your research and gathered your tools, you can begin the process.  

Step 1: Mark The Area 

Make your surrounding area clear of any obstacles and mark down where you’re going to dig holes for your fence posts. Spray paint or marker stakes will be useful to designate where you’re going to dig. You may need to make adjustments based on how level your surface is.  

Step 2: Start Digging 

A post hole digger is essential, especially as you’re going to want to dig narrow holes for your fencing posts, as wider holes can affect the stability and lead to using more post mix. It’s also a good idea to add some gravel at the bottom of the hole you dug to reduce damage to your fencepost.  

Step 3: Set the Fence Posts 

Carefully place your post into the hole and ensure it’s levelled. Throughout the entire process of installing your fence panels, it’s important to check everything is straight using your spirit level, as a simple error can lead to a crooked fence. A neat tip we recommend after pouring the postcrete is to use a trowel and create a downward angle in the drying cement to prevent water from pooling in the area.  

Step 4: Pour the Postcrete 

Once you’ve prepared your cement you can begin pouring it into the hole; we recommend postcrete as it dries quickly. One of the reasons we recommend wearing goggles and gloves is to keep the dust from going into your eyes and protect your hands from any splinters and sharp tools. Remember to continuously check if your posts are levelled throughout this process.  

Step 5: Measure and Mark Panel Clips 

After the postcrete has set, start marking where you will place the fence clips (often referred to as panel clips), as they will make the process of installing fence panels simple. They’re especially useful for attaching and removing panels, should you ever have to replace one.  

Step 6: Place The Fence Panels 

Assuming your fence panels have been measured and cut, they should now be ready to be placed. We recommend using a gravel board at the base of your fence to ensure its longevity and prevent any potential rotting. Now comes the fun part, simply slide your panels down between the clips and check they are level.  

Step 7: Apply Finishing Touches 

This is where you can add the postcaps and any other finishing touches to your fence. This part simply requires some screws and a screwdriver to give your fence that little bit extra protection from water damage, as well as increased aesthetic appeal.  

Begin Your Home Improvement Journey 

You should now have a better sense of how to install fence panels but if you have any enquiries about building a fence or any other landscaping and gardening projects, our friendly team is happy to help. Reminder that those with a trade account can receive special discounts and offers on all our timber fencing products. Fill out our contact form or send us an email to support@timberyarddirect.co.uk. If you prefer a more direct line of communication, feel free to give us a call on 02476 581 904 to speak to a member of our expert team.