Friday, August 28, 2009

Set Up An Antique Iron Fence

An antique wrought iron fence adds instant charm and grace to a yard.


Wrought iron fences were common in the early 1900s, but they fell out of use in favor of less expensive materials. If you have found an antique iron fence, the installation process is very similar to other types of fencing. Please note that before you can begin this project, you must call your local Buried Cable Hotline and have them inspect your yard for buried cables. In most states, you can dial 811 to reach this hotline. Do not attempt to start this project until this has been completed. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Lay out the fence line with stakes and string. Figure out how far apart your posts need to be, based on the width of the panels. For example, if the fence panels are 6 feet long, place the posts 6 feet apart. Drive your stakes into the ground and then wrap string around them to mark the location of the fence.


2. Dig the fence post holes with a fence post digger. The width of the hole should be 6 inches, and the depth should be 2 feet.


3. Fill the fence post holes with quick-setting concrete. Mix the concrete in a bucket according to package directions. Pour the concrete from the bucket into the holes, leaving 1 inch free at the top.


4. Set the fence posts. Work quickly; quick-setting concrete hardens in 15 to 30 minutes. Center the posts in the hole and press them in firmly. Let the concrete set until hard before proceeding.


5. Assemble the fence panels with a cordless screwdriver. Fit the edge of the fence post panels into the receptacles on the fence posts. Screw them into place. Repeat until all of the panels are in place. If your fence has brackets instead, place the end of the fence panel flush against the post. Fasten the brackets with a cordless screwdriver.

Tags: fence post, cordless screwdriver, fence panels, fence post holes, fence posts, holes with