DIY Fence Planner

Useful Tips for building your fence

1. Partial Panels:

If you have a partial panel piece, you can create this by cutting a panel to length using a hacksaw or angle grinder. For Steel Pool or Perimeter fences, be sure to allow equal overhang either side on the horizontal rails so the panel is centred between the posts. It is recommended that panel rails are fixed into the brackets by a minimum 15mm with self tapping screws. For extra protection, consider using a zinc rich primer to any cut ends.

For Roll Top fences, be sure to cut the panel on the outside and next to a vertical wire, this will allow you to fix the clips to the post and have the panel flush with the post.

2. Permits:

Don’t forget to check if you require any permits from your local council, and Dial Before You Dig for any underground services in your property.

3. Boundary Lines:

Don’t forget to check you are building on or inside your boundary line, nothing worse than finding out that you’ve built your fence on your neighbours land, or the council’s land.

4. Brackets:

For Steel Pool or Perimeter fences, measure and fit the brackets loosely to the posts before mounting the panels to allow easier fitting to the brackets. Alternatively, you can measure and fit the brackets to the posts, then remove, slip the brackets over the horizontal rails on the panels, and refit the brackets & panels to the posts for easier installation. Don’t forget to clean away & remove any burrs or filings from drill holes to ensure there are no rust marks over time.

For Roll Top fences, measure and fit the top clip first, directly underneath the highest horizontal wire, this will determine the height you wish the panel to sit at. Do this for either side first, then fix the next clip underneath either side of the centre horizontal wires, ensuring the face of the panel is where you have the top of the panel fixed. Finally, fix the bottom clip just above the lowest horizontal wire. 3 clips either side of the panel is sufficient.

5. Inground posts:

When using inground posts, use a string line at the height you intend to have as your finished post heights to help get an even finish.

6. Flanged posts:

When installing flanged posts, leave the fixings slightly loose to allow some movement in the posts to help with installation of the brackets (or clips for Roll Top fences) and panels, then tighten once everything is fitted off.

7. Stabilisers:

Use stabilisers such a large timber offcuts to help position your posts in a perfectly vertical position before adding concrete.

8. Sloping Ground:

When installing on slightly sloping ground, remember to add extra length to the post to allow for the drop in distance from post to post, e.g. you may need to leave the post 1400mm above ground so the next panel can be installed 100mm lower than the previous panel.

Support – Two easy ways to reach our team:

Email: If you wish to contact the Support team email: sales@rapidhardwaregroup.com.au. Please include your name, and if necessary, a telephone number.

Phone: You can also contact the Support team by calling on 1300 911 914, Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm (AEDT).

For Bunnings store locations visit www.bunnings.co.nz.

* Available in selected stores only. Check with your local Bunnings for current pricing and availability.