DO-IT-YOURSELF | Jan Fence
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DO-IT-YOURSELF

Updated: Jan 4, 2022

At Jan Fence, we pride ourselves on catering to all customers’ budgets and busy schedules. Whether it is an effort to save money or just the excitement of doing a home improvement project yourself, Jan Fence is go-to stop. Jan Fence is very excited about our DIY (Do It Yourself) division for those handy customers with the DIY mindset.


Jan Fence is here to help and provide all customers with the same exceptional service. We want to make the process of installing your fence as simple, efficient and enjoyable as possible. In addition to providing you with all fencing materials needed at the best possible price, we will also provide you with detailed instructions. And remember, if you still have questions, we are ALWAYS here to help.

STEP 1 - CHOOSE YOUR FENCE (Aluminum, PVC, Wood, Chain Link, Post & Rail)

Jan Fence offers a full inventory of all types of fences. So the first thing you have to do is simply select what type of fence you would like! With over 4 acres of inventory, you have plenty of options when it comes to styles and colors! Feel free to visit one of our Design Centers or look through our website’s extensive gallery of photos to get some inspiration and ideas.

STEP 2 - PREPARE FOR YOUR INSTALLATION

Locate the perimeter of your property line, any underground utilities by contacting your state utilities department and familiarize yourself with your regions zoning codes and regulations. Now, we know all of that may seem difficult, complicated and a bit overwhelming—but do not fret, Jan Fence is there for you every step of the way. All of these preparation steps are really quite easy to figure out.

A simple trip to your town’s municipal building or visit to their website will solve most of those questions. Now that all of those questions are answered—let’s plan out your fence! You now know your property line and your town’s zoning codes… all that is left to do is plan what area of your home you would like fenced in.

1) Determine the corners of the area you plan to fence in and mark them by placing a stake at each corner.

2) In between each corner marker, make another marker point every 6 to 8 feet depending on which style and series fence you have previously chosen. These markers are where your posts will be installed, with the sections being placed in between.

3) If relevant, choose where you would like your walk or entry gates to be placed. Depending on the size of the gate, mark where each gate post will be located.

4) – Determine what you will need!

Count the number of stakes you marked.


  • For every corner you are fencing in, you will need 1 corner post for each.

  • If your fence stops at a tree, “connects” to your home or connects to a gate, you will need one end post for every relative situation.

  • For every stake you put in the ground in between the original corner markers you originally placed (every 6 or 8 feet), you will need 1 line post.


Count the number of gates and note the size.


  • Count the number of sections (are sections 6 or 8 feet wide?)

  • Don’t forget post tops and gate latches/hardware.

  • We offer an extensive selection of post caps and other accessories to customize your fence.



STEP 3 - INSTALLATION

Here are the tools you will need for your installation. Most of these tools can be rented from your local hardware store. Trust me; we know that most people do not have this kind of hardware laying around!


  • Torpedo Level

  • Circular Saw

  • Ready Mix Concrete (1½ Bags per Post)

  • Post Hole Digger

  • Digging/Tamping Bar

  • Stakes and String

  • Tape Measure

  • Flat head screwdriver

  • Post hole digger

  • Coarse gravel (6" per post hole)

  • Water (for mixing concrete)

  • Clean Rags

  • Safety glasses

  • Line level

  • Shovel

  • Rubber mallet 


Starting with a corner or an end post; dig holes 6” to 12” in diameter and 24” to 36” deep (depending on style). Use the Center-to-Center measurements of the fence style being installed for post distance. Dig next hole. (Suggestion: do not dig more than 1 hold ahead until you are confident in your spacing)

Set post to plumb level, tamp and secure then insert or assemble section. Repeat. (If you need to shorten a section; cut rails at desired length. You may need to modify rails to insert into the post)

Upon completion of a “line”, step back and observe. You may want to lower posts or raise posts to match the “grade” (pry, and re-tamp). Follow up specific instructions for gates. Clean, wipe down, and spread some grass seed and Enjoy! 

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