How To Install 8-Foot-Tall Privacy Fence Panels

There are a variety of DIY privacy fence ideas that will create a quiet escape in your backyard. However, if you want to keep out noise, and prevent prying eyes, little will be more effective than solid 8-foot-tall privacy fence panels. However, installing a fence that tall can present challenges. First of all, you're going to want to avoid those mistakes everyone makes when installing a fence, like not checking local regulations or HOA rules that might restrict height. Then, assuming you're good to go, there's choosing the fence material and installing the panels properly.

While different types of privacy fence panels may have their own requirements, one thing is pretty much universal (and absolutely vital), and that's to ensure the posts are at the proper depth and solidly fixed so they will support the panels securely. You'll also want to ensure that they're lined up properly so that your fence is straight. So, let's look at those methods in more detail.

If you're going to DIY your privacy fence panels, you could use chain link fencing and then cover it with synthetic grass or foliage rolls. You could also buy lumber and build your own. Less time-consuming is to buy pre-made panes that are available in wood, vinyl, metal, or composite (which some people are finding way better than vinyl).

Whichever you choose, accurate spacing of posts and inserting them at the correct depth is vital to the strength and durability of your fence. Too shallow, and there's a serious risk they will lean under the force of the wind or even collapse. The first step is to carefully mark the post positions. An easy way to keep them straight is to hammer in a couple of stakes (1x1 lumber will do) at each end of the fence line and run a length of string between them as a guide.

Next, you need to dig the holes. The general rule is that a third of the post should be in the ground. For an 8-foot-tall fence, that's around thirty-two inches. Some kits may have different requirements, so it's important to check. Also, make the hole around three times the width of the post. A few inches of gravel at the bottom will provide a stable base, then insert the post and fill around it with concrete. A tool like the Irwin Post Level is ideal for making sure it is perfectly upright.

8-foot fence panel kits generally come with an installation guide, and it's important to read through this before you start. For example, as you set the posts, you'll probably need to make sure the tops align or the components may not fit together properly. Sloping ground is one thing you will need to consider when determining the style of fence your home needs, and in this case, it may mean you have to look for an alternative.

Building your own privacy fence out of wood may be more work, but it does allow you a lot more versatility when dealing with awkward terrain. It also allows you to include decorative elements that are more creative than generally found in kits. The downside with wood when compared to vinyl, composite, or metal is that it needs to be protected, and the paint or stain will have to be reapplied every few years.

The final consideration is safety. An 8-foot privacy fence panel may not be particularly heavy, but it will be difficult to manage on your own. They are designed to be a solid barrier, so even a modest gust of wind could land you on your back, which has the potential for a nasty injury. If at all possible, work with a partner. Not only are there less likely to be accidents, but it will be much easier to fit the panels to the posts.