A well-built fence can enhance your property
They say good fences make good neighbours—but we prefer to say good fences make good yards. A well-built fence can transform your property by adding privacy, security, and curb appeal. It can keep kids and pets safe, give you a little peace and quiet, and even boost your home’s value.
Whether you’re picturing a classic white picket fence, a tall privacy fence, or a decorative shadowbox design, building your own fence can be a rewarding DIY project—and one that instantly improves your backyard.
Check Local Regulations First
Before you dig, check with your city or town about fence height, materials, and permits. If you’re part of a Homeowner’s Association, ask about any style rules—often the “good side” of the fence (the one without posts and rails) must face the street. Nothing’s worse than finishing a project only to be told you have to take it down!
Pick a Fence Style That Fits Your Yard
If you’re free to choose your design, take some time to look at what works best for your property. A shadowbox fence stained to match your deck? A concave fence that dips down to show off the woods behind your house? Or maybe a tall six-foot privacy fence to block out the neighbour who grills shirtless all summer long?
If your neighbour is also interested in a new fence, you can ask about splitting the cost. They aren’t required to pay, but it never hurts to ask.
Choose the Right Materials
Wood is a classic choice, but not all wood holds up to Canadian weather. The team at your local TIMBER MART can recommend the best wood for fences in Canada and explain how to treat it for long-lasting results.
If you want something low-maintenance, vinyl, aluminum, steel, and wrought iron are great options. Some homeowners build a decorative fence in the front yard—a traditional picket fence, for example—and a more affordable chain link fence in the backyard where it’s less visible.
Plan Before You Purchase
Bring a detailed sketch of your property when you buy materials, showing exactly where the fence will go. For safety, any fenced-in area should have two exits. And be certain of your property line so you don’t accidentally build on your neighbour’s land.
Step-by-Step: How to Build a Wooden Fence
- Stake the corners first, square them, then stake the middle posts.
- Dig post holes below the frost line, burying posts at least one-third of their height, with 3–4 inches of gravel at the bottom.
- Set posts in place with instant concrete, allow it to harden, and cover the hole with soil.
- Attach support boards and run a builder’s line to keep everything level.
- Add pickets one by one—this is the satisfying part!—and finish with a water seal, stain, or paint to protect the wood.
Build a Fence That Lasts
Your local TIMBER MART is here to help you choose materials and answer any questions along the way. Looking for more outdoor project ideas? Check out our Fences and Decks resource page for tips on deck building, staining, and more.