String Line Fence Post

The outside edge of the stake should just touch the line.

String line fence post.

I like to use fast setting concrete for these posts. Drop a post into each hole and line its face up with the string while you plumb it. The following formula will help you compute the number of fence posts you need. Use a string line level or bench level to make sure the line is level then check to see that.

The lower string is to the ground without touching the ground the better. At this point you pull the string to where you are placing the opposite end post. Measure the positions of the posts with a tape measure and drive a stake at each point. Using your string line you will run the string on the outside of the soon to be installed fence.

To ensure the posts are even in height run a tight string line between corner posts and end posts. The longer the run the tighter the string needs to be to stay straight. For me building a fence starts with getting posts plumb and in a laser straight line. Mark the positions of the line posts and dig a hole for each one directly under the string.

Hammer your stakes in clear of your post holes so that the stakes are not disturbed during digging. In other words the string will run where the fabric or wood pickets will be located. Considering this your corner posts should be longer and if possible larger than your line posts. Stretch mason string between the centers of all the batter boards to delineate the perimeter of the fence.

Corner posts should be buried deeper to the ground at least 2 3 of the entire length of the post compared to your line posts at least 2 feet. Pulling a string it s really called mason s line tight between two points is the best way to build a fence straight and true.