The fence is one of the first things anyone sees before gaining entrance to your home. It offers you privacy and still adds an aura of beauty to your outdoors. However, the fence needs to be installed appropriately. Installing it isn't such a hard venture when you've got the proper guidelines. Besides, doing it yourself can save you some extra cash. Here are some tips you need to look out for.

Local codes

Before starting out, remember to check your local codes for any requirements. Some states have a limit on the height of the fence. Others even have laws regarding how deep your posts should go. If you are not sure about the laws, then visit your local authorities.

Prepare for the weight

You need to be ready for the weight of the fence. How deep the posts go determines how effective they will be in supporting the weight of the fence. A good rule of thumb is ensuring that a third of the post is underground. If you are going to be using wooden posts, then you also need to take care of the rotting that may take place underneath. Apply some wood preservative before fixing the posts in place. You could also cement the posts to the ground for extra rigidity.

Some people don't consider the size and strength of the hinges to place on the gates. This is a huge mistake especially when dealing with treated wood. Pressure treated gates can be really heavy, and the hinges may be overpowered. Additionally, such gates absorb water in rainy periods and become even heavier. So ensure you use tough, solid hinges.

Determine the spacing

The spacing of your posts needs to be done in a way that will provide full support for the fence. Spacing them too far apart reduces the stability and makes the fence susceptible to wind damage. Typically, the spacing needs to be 6 to 8 feet apart.

Start setting up the corner posts first then, between them, mark the exact points you would like the other posts to go.

Give it time before sealing

After setting up a wooden fence, don't immediately skip to sealing and staining it. Normally, manufacturers add a few finishes to keep the wood in proper condition. Staining it too soon may cause the preservatives not to be absorbed by the fence, so you won't be doing yourself any good. Give it a day or two before getting to it.

You also need to know that a wooden fence needs to be repainted so as to preserve it and increase its longevity.

If you feel you cannot do this by yourself, then talk with professional residential fencing contractors.