https://www.building-wiremesh.comThere’s something undeniably striking about a metal fence. Whether it’s wrought iron or galvanized steel, metal fences add depth, dimension, and sophistication to a home—to say nothing of the protection they can offer.

If you’ve been admiring your neighbor’s elegant steel fence or keep pausing over those featured in Better Homes & Gardens, trust that modern, regular metal and aluminum fence installation kits have simplified the process. With a few extra hands for assistance, quality metal fencing kits, and our expert tips in your back pocket, you too can have a wrought iron style fence that’ll turn heads—and bring a smile to your face.

Read on for our step-by-step guide on how to install a metal fence and why, precisely, you should consider investing in one. 

#1 Select Your Metal Fence

This is the fun part: Choosing from the types of metal fencing that will boost your comfort and your home’s appearance.

Wooden and vinyl fences have their own beauty and benefits, but steel fences have become steadily more popular. Why? They’re durable, long-lasting, and handsome. The different types of metal fences include:

• Wrought iron – Wrought-iron fences have been elevating homes, buildings, and parks for, well, centuries. Comprised of iron that’s heated and molded into different shapes, wrought iron fences are praised for their strength, endurance, and variety. From arched tops to flat-topped designs, you’re bound to find a design that will complement your home and resonate with your personal aesthetics. They tend to come with a higher price tag, but given their longevity, they’re well worth the cost.

• Cast iron – Cast iron fences bear some similarities to wrought iron: They’re available in a host of shapes and designs and have remarkable resilience. Out of the two, cast iron is a more wallet-friendly option. That said, cast iron isn’t as sturdy as wrought iron and may have a shorter lifespan.

• Steel – Steel fences are a more cost-effective alternative to wrought iron. They are also resistant to rust—a boon for those who live in wet climates like Portland or Seattle—and are available in a handful of designs. What are the drawbacks of steel fences? They’re susceptible to scratching, which can mar the appearance of your fence over time. Unless you use a solid panel of steel fencing, the gaps in steel fences also tend towards the thicker side, which may not provide you with as much privacy as you desire with a privacy fence.

• Chain-link – Chain-link fences are common for three primary reasons: they’re easy on the wallet, useful, and a cinch to install. Their design, however, doesn’t offer much in the way of privacy—unless, of course, you weave in greenery (the chef’s kiss of fencing).

• Aluminum – Aluminum is a terrific choice for those who live in damp climates or who plan to install a fence near their outdoor pool. Aluminum is also resistant to rust and has the power to persevere under various weather conditions. Keep in mind, however, that aluminum is vulnerable to bending if an object strikes it, such as a tree branch during a storm.

Naturally, the type of metal fence you select comes down to the amount you’re willing to pay, the look you covet, the amount of privacy you crave, and how long you intend to keep your fence around. Should none of the above meets your needs; you can also explore wire and corrugated metal.

STEEL FENCE

#2 Assess Your Yard For Obstructions and Utilities

Before measuring the perimeter of your yard—or the space you’d like to enclose with a fence—it’s essential to gain a complete understanding of anything that will be in the way or make for difficult terrain. This may include:

• Hills and slopes
• Boulders
• Trees
• Drainage ditches

Obstacles such as these will have to be worked around—either by adjusting your fence line or removing them when possible (and desired).

It’s just as imperative to keep an eye out for utilities, such as sewage and electrical lines, which are oftentimes buried underground (including abandoned utilities). Puncturing one of these can be tremendously costly, may interrupt your and your neighbors’ access to key services like water and WiFi, and potentially result in fines. Contact your utility company by dialing 811 for more information about how metal fence installation may interrupt services.

#3 Determine Your Property Line

You may have a general understanding of where your property begins and ends, but precision is imperative here. Review your deed or a plat map, or hire a licensed land surveyor.

You may also want to give your immediate neighbors a head’s-up and assure them (with paperwork, if necessary) that your fence will be installed on your property.

#4 Confirm Your Fence’s Height (and Viability)

Local ordinances and HOAs (if you’re part of one) dictate the sizes and heights of fences, so ensure that the fence you’ve selected falls within your region and neighborhood’s range. Further, take a look at your deed for any easements that could interfere with your fencing plans or force you to demolish it in the future.

Lastly, you may need to obtain a permit to construct a steel fence on your property. Contact your county office to guarantee you’re within legal bounds.

#5 Take Measurements

When it comes to answering the question, “How much fence do I need?” you’ll need to know exactly how much steel fencing you’ll require before ordering a fencing kit. Using a measuring wheel or a measuring tape (with an assistant, of course), calculate the perimeter of your yard—or the area you’ve designated for a fence—by feet. Divide this number by the size of the metal fence panels you’ve selected. 

#6 Order Your Fence Kit and Obtain The Necessary Tools and Materials

Iron fencing kits usually come with galvanized steel or metal fence panels, posts (including end posts, corner posts, and structural line posts), and connector brackets.

You’ll also need to get your hands on several tools. Normally, these will include:

• Power hill digger or power auger
• Shovel
• Strings
• Stakes
• Spray paint
• Concrete or gravel

If you’re installing a gate, be sure to order it along with your fence kit.

#7 Perform a Test Run

Prior to putting your metal fence in the post holes, you’ll dig (see #9 below). You may want to lay it out to examine how it fits. This will save you from making critical adjustments once your fence is erect.

#8 Stake Out Your Posts’ Positions

Plot out the perimeter of your fence and mark corners and ends with spray paint. Place stakes in these areas and attach strings between them, ensuring the string is taut. With measuring tape, mark where your line posts will go with spray paint according to the panels’ width. Your fencing manufacturer will provide recommendations on the distance you should have between each panel.

#9 Dig Your Post Holes

After staking out where the post holes will be, use a power hill digger or a power auger. Here are a few tips on how to install metal fence posts:

• Dig the hole in a bell shape with the top of the “bell” facing the sky and the wider part at the bottom. This will encourage stability.

• Make each hole the diameter and depth instructed by the fence manufacturer.

• Fill each hole with roughly six inches of gravel. This will drain water away from your posts. 

Alternatively, some choose to use cement to keep their posts intact. While you don’t necessarily need concrete, they may be advised if you live in a high-wind area. Be sure to go over this aspect with your fence manufacturer before you dive into the project.

#10 Install Your Panels and Posts

Set your posts into your holes, remembering to use corner posts at any part of the fence that turns at a 90-degree angle. Fasten the posts between each section. (Absolutely ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the T, as each type of fence has different requirements and measurements between posts.) If you’re using concrete to keep your posts in place, install the posts and panels simultaneously before pouring in the concrete.

Finally, if you’re installing a driveway gate, this will be your final step—either according to the manufacturer’s instructions or for heavier, more intricate wrought iron gates, with the assistance of a contractor.

Then, pat yourself on your back for all of your hard work—and savor the sight of your new metal fence. You’re finished.