How to build a vegie garden fence

In order to get in and out, you’ll need to build a gate, so – that’s a good place to start. First, work out where you’d like the opening to be. Mark it out and add approximately 20mm to the width of your gate to allow for hardware. (The exact measurement will differ according to the type of timber and hardware you choose.) 

Once you’ve measured your gate, place it to the side.

Next, use a tape measure to work out where your posts need to go. Mark out your post spacing using brightly coloured spray paint so it’s easy to see. 

To stop your posts from deteriorating and rotting underground, seal them with a paintbrush and some bitumen paint. It’s waterproof and seals the timber. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

Once the paint is dry, place the first and last posts (also called the ‘start and end posts’) into the ground. Line these up with your string line to ensure the fence is perfectly straight. Use a spirit level to plumb and brace the start and end posts. To ensure your posts stay perfectly straight, attach some timber rails for support using nails and a hammer or nail gun.

With the start and end posts level and plumb, insert the middle posts into the holes. Repeat the step above to ensure they also stay straight.

Once all of your posts are inserted, level and plumb, grab a bucket or old wheelbarrow and mix up your concrete. You’re looking for a uniform consistency that looks like thick oatmeal and holds its shape when squeezed in a gloved hand. Pour concrete into each post hole.

Before the concrete has time to dry, use a spirit level to triple-check all the posts are level and plumb. Adjust if necessary and leave the concrete to dry overnight.

Once the concrete is completely dry, you can remove the temporary wooden rails. On each post, mark out the height of the posts and where you’ll be positioning the rails.

Using a saw, cut the top off your posts to the height you would like them. For a clean look, mark out check-in points on each post. This is where your railing will lock into your posts and sit flush. If you’re adding a gate to your fence, make sure you leave space on the end of the post so that you can hide the end of the rail.

To check-in each post, set your saw to the depth of the rail and make multiple cuts in the timber. Knock these out with a small chisel and hammer, tidying up the check. Double-check your rails will fit inside the check completely.

Cut your rails to size using a saw. Fit each rail into the check-ins on your posts, and drill in galvanised screws to secure them.

Once your fence is done, you can hang your gate. To hang it, mount the hinge to the gate rails.  Prop your gate up to the right height with chocks or pieces of wood. Screw in the hinges and adjust them until the gate hangs straight and opens smoothly.

Once the gate is mounted, attach the gate latch using screws and a screwdriver. Close the gate and measure the position for the striker. Line up the latch and striker and then screw the striker in place. Now you can open, close, and lock your gate!

For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 7: Backyard & Alfresco renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.