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How to install fence palings

Person installing fence paling with nail gun.

Overview

A paling fence is a simple yet effective way of creating some privacy around your home.  Learn how to install different width palings together to get an evenly spaced out fence that looks great.

Tools and materials

Tools

Materials

Steps

1Install the wider palings at the back

Use a railing off-cut as a spacer to help you to get an even spacing between your palings. Starting with the wider palings, put the spacer in, but the paling up against the spacer and use a couple of nails at the top, the bottom and then the middle of the paling. If you are starting your fence from scratch, you would line up the paling with the edge of the post. Continue nailing the palings along the fence with the spacer for an even fence.
Person installing fence paling with nail gun.

2Overlay the boards with narrower boards

Place the narrower board on the plinth at the bottom, centre the board between the two wider boards at the back and nail in. Remember to check every few palings with a spirit level to make sure that they are still straight. 

Person installing fence paling with nail gun.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.