During the Victorian Era, fencing was used to keep animals out.
The Victorian Era was an age of excess and exaggeration. The houses, inside and out, were loaded with ornamentation and intricate carvings, all designed to captivate the eye. Their choice in fencing was no different. Privacy was not the issue, since the Victorians wanted to show off their homes and gardens, but rather the purpose was to keep out animals. The preferred choice for fencing was wrought iron, and the more detailed, the better. Wrought iron is an expensive selection, however, so a picket fence with a scalloped or crowned top line is an option, as is a clever, inexpensive way to make "faux" wrought iron from the decorative pieces made for additional security on front doors. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Set The Posts
1. Check with local zoning authorities for any applicable codes for fences. Mark the property lines where the fence will be erected, and clear the designated area for the fence with all the utility companies to avoid any underground lines.
2. Set up a string line from the starting point of the fence to the end point. Mark off 8-foot increments for the posts.
3. Dig holes 1 foot deep, using the post hole digger.
4. Mix cement and water according to the manufacturer's directions. Place one post in each hole and fill the hole with the cement mix. Level the cement off with your shovel, and make certain the post is plumb. Continue until all posts are set.
5. Wait at least 24 hours before attaching the fence boards.
Add The Fence Boards
6. Attach the 2-by-4s to the posts, using the fence brackets and galvanized nails. Attach two boards in a parallel formation, placing the top line of the bottom board about 12 inches off the ground, and the bottom line of the top board about 12 inches from the top of the post. Check for level.
7. Attach pickets or decorative add-ons using galvanized nails. If using decorative add-ons, you will need to drill holes in each before mounting them on the 2-by-4s. Be certain to keep your pickets or add-ons evenly spaced throughout.
8. Using a pencil and string, temporarily nail the string in the center picket and draw a line from one post to the other, creating a crown or dip pattern for the scalloped border on the pickets. Use a circular saw to cut the pickets to form the edge. If using a decorative add-on, reinforce it on the back side of the fence by adding a piece of 1 1/2-inch vinyl tubing across the middle of the add-ons.
9. Allow the fence boards to season, usually three to four months. Then paint with a glossy exterior enamel.
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