Wrought iron fences are easy to install with the proper tools and materials.
Wrought iron fences can provide security for your home while adding to the decor outside the house. The fence can be very simple or, for those who wish to go the extra expense, very ornate. Installing the fence is straightforward but you should have a helper since the sections can be very heavy. The project requires no special tools. The most difficult part of the job is digging holes for the footers to help strengthen and stabilize the fence. The amount of time it takes to complete the project depends on the length of the fence run and any obstacles that you must go around. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Plan the route your fence will take and drive wooden stakes into the ground to mark the locations for the posts around the perimeter. Make sure to account for the size of any gates. Tie a string on one of the stakes and pull it around all of the stakes to rope off the perimeter. This will help to guide you as you install the fence posts.
2. Dig a hole 24 inches deep for each fence post, using the post hole digger. Each post should be 73 inches on center from the preceding post if you are using 6-foot sections, or 97 inches on center if the sections are 8 feet. Measure the depth of the holes to make sure each one is 24 inches.
3. Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can use a little less water when mixing the concrete, if you like, so it will be thick enough to help hold the fence post vertical while you wait for the concrete to dry.
4. Insert a wrought iron fence post into each hole and pour the concrete in after it. The concrete level should be 4 inches from the top of the hole. Use the level to make sure the post is straight. Fill in the remaining hole with the dirt from the digging the holes. Allow ample time for the concrete to dry before you start installing the fence sections. Two to three days should allow the concrete to cure properly.
5. Install the fence panels to the posts using a drill, screwdriver bit and self-tapping screws. Have a helper hold each fence section as you secure it to the post. Check each section with the level as you install it to keep it level. Continue installing the sections until the fence is complete. Be sure to leave one section open for the gate. Use a hacksaw to cut panels that are too long.
6. Install the gate to the fence posts using a drill, screwdriver bit and self-tapping screws to attach the hinges to the post. Install the gate latch using a drill, screwdriver bit and self-tapping screws. Check the latch by opening and closing the gate several times to make sure that the latch works properly.
Tags: drill screwdriver, drill screwdriver self-tapping, fence post, make sure, screwdriver self-tapping, screwdriver self-tapping screws