Spring is officially here, and that means a lot more outdoor living and entertaining. Is your outdoor space ready? While most homeowners focus on building a new deck or on deck maintenance, redoing your fence can also transform your space. Do you know what the crucial structural connections of a strong wooden fence? We will outline them here, along with a sneak peek at our newest fence bracket, the FBFZ, just in time for spring.
Select the Right Wood
Since fences are exposed to the elements, using the right type of wood is critical. Using woods like cedar, redwood or preservative treated lumber ensures that your fence can last for years and years. Finishing the wood with an exterior-grade stain or paint will give your fencing extra protection against weather changes or extremes.
Strong Wooden Fence Posts
It’s essential to set your fence posts into the ground properly. This means for wood fences that are 6ʹtall, you need 2ʹof the post in the ground. It is also recommended that a 2″gap be maintained between the bottom of the fence and the ground to help prevent rot. We recommend that you set your fence posts in concrete for greater strength and durability.
Exterior-Grade Hardware
Using connectors, screws and nails that are rated for exterior use will prevent rust and corrosion and ensure that your fence will last a long time. Using exterior-rated Simpson Strong-Tie®connectors can save you on long-term costs by adding strength and minimizing repairs. The new patent-pending FBFZ flat fence bracket creates a simple and strong connection between the rails and the posts. With a new flat-plate design, it’s easy to install and creates a secure connection. It has a ZMAX®galvanized coating for additional corrosion resistance so you won’t have to worry about rust.
A well-built fence not only helps ensure your privacy, it gives your children and pets a safe outdoor space in which to romp and play. Who doesn’t love a nicely built picket fence? If you want to find out more about the FBFZ flat fence bracket, click here.
One of Many Strong Wooden Fence Solutions
Simpson Strong-Tie offers a number of options for creating or reinforcing a strong wooden fence.
FB and FBR fence brackets make the connection between fence rails and posts simple and strong. These brackets eliminate the need for toe nailing or screwing. Clean, versatile connections make planning and building fences, deck/porch railings and louvers easier and faster.
Have a rotting post? Our E-Z Mender makes it easy to reinforce your fence while preserving the existing post. See our article on how to install the E-Z Mender in under 10 minutes.
