Installing Wood Fence Rails

You can install rails either between or across posts, and you can fasten them with hangers, nails, or screws. Rails placed wide side up resist side-to-side pressure. Rails placed narrow side up sag the least and are recommended for heavy fences and those whose posts are 6 feet or more apart. When attaching rails to the sides of posts, use 16-foot rails and stagger them so there is only one joint per post. Don’t cut notches in the posts to hold the rails; it creates a lot of work and weakens the posts.

Step 2: Transfer the Lines to Other Posts

Transfer the layout lines to the other posts using a line level and mason’s line. (Don’t use ordinary string because it stretches). If you’re hanging the rails between posts, use a square to transfer the lines to the inside faces of the posts.

Face Up On Cleats

Fasten 2× cleats to the fence with #8 2 ½" deck screws. Place the rails on the cleats and drive two screws at an angle through the ends of the rails into the cleats.

Cap Rails

Cut rails so the joints fall at the center of the posts and the ends butt together tightly. Cut a 45-degree miter on rails that meet over corner posts. Fasten with 10d (3") nails or #8 2 ½" deck screws.

Cut rails so the joints fall at the center of the posts. Put the rails on the posts, butting the ends tightly. Fasten the rails to the posts with #8 2 ½" deck screws.