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Moving Your Fence: DIY Yard Transformation on a Budget

Before
Before
diy projects
Before (1)
FENCE

Breathe New Life into Your Yard: A Step-by-Step Guide to Moving a Fence

Fences can deteriorate over time, becoming an eyesore and privacy concern. But before you rush out to buy all new materials, consider giving your existing fence a second chance! This guide will show you how to move and reuse a wood stockade fence, saving you money and adding a touch of rustic charm to your yard.

Important Note: This project requires some physical effort and can be dusty or dirty work. Be sure to prioritize safety throughout the process.

Safety First!

  • Gather your safety gear: goggles, gloves, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
  • Depending on the size and weight of the fence panels and posts, you might also consider using a mask to avoid inhaling dust particles.

Gather Your Supplies:

Step 1: Prep the Work Area

  • Clear a comfortable workspace around the fence. This will give you room to maneuver and avoid tripping over overgrown vegetation.
  • Use your clippers or pruning shears to trim back any overgrown branches, bushes, or vines that might be entangled with the fence.

Step 2: Dismantle the Old Fence 

  • Removing the Panels:
    • Work from top to bottom on both sides of the fence.
    • Carefully pry the nails out of the panels using your hammer. Be mindful not to damage the wood excessively as you’ll be reusing the panels.
    • If the panels are stubborn, try rocking them back and forth gently to loosen the nails.
  • Extracting the Posts:
    • Dig a shallow trench around the base of each post to expose some of the buried section.
    • Once you have enough space to work, push the post back and forth to loosen the soil around it.
    • If the posts are not cemented in, you should be able to pull them out by hand with some effort.
    • For Cemented Posts: You’ll need to dig further down to break the concrete hold. This can be a challenging task. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional to assist you with this step.

Step 3: Building the New Fence

  • Clear the New Location:
    • Rake and remove any debris from the area where you’ll be reassembling the fence. Ensure the ground is level for a stable fence line.
  • Reposition the Posts:
    • Carefully place the posts in their new locations, ensuring they are spaced evenly and plumb (straight up and down). You can use a level to check for plumb.
  • Secure the Panels:
    • Instead of nails, use L brackets for a stronger and more permanent reattachment of the panels to the posts.
    • Screw the L brackets securely to both the top and bottom of each post, ensuring a tight connection between the panels and the posts.

Step 4 (Optional): Staining for a Refresh

  • Give your recycled fence a fresh new look with a coat of outdoor stain. Choose a color that complements your existing outdoor structures and landscaping.
  • Apply the stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Admire Your Work!

Take a moment to appreciate your accomplishment! You’ve successfully moved your fence, saved money, and given your yard a personal touch with a beautiful rustic fence.

Bonus Tip:

Consider using any leftover stain to spruce up your deck, planters, or other outdoor furniture for a cohesive and polished look throughout your yard!

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