DIY Split Rail Fence with Simpson Strong-Tie Connectors

* This post is sponsored by Simpson Strong-Tie.

Never in a million years would I have thought I’d be installing a split rail fence with posts and rails all by myself. While it seems like a rather big job I’m here to tell you it’s actually fairly simple and completely doable.

A DIY tutorial to build a split rail fence using Simpson Strong-Tie connectors. Installing a beautiful fence made easy with awesome hardware.

The secret to making installation easy, strong and secure is these Simpson Strong-Tie fence brackets. This bracket attaches securely to the post and then attaches to the rail. Needless to say these brackets not only make installing rails faster but allow for precision and ease. There’s no toe-nailing or trying to screw through the post. There’s some saying about good fences make good neighbors and I must agree.

I added this split rail fence to the corner of our side yard which makes for a nice separation between us and the neighbors. I think a split rail is the perfect fence for marking the property line while still keeping it peaceful and neighborly. This DIY fence checks off all the right qualities:

simple post and rail construction
understated functional hardware
great properly line marker

Just look how pretty that little corner of our yard is now with a beautiful fence! Below are step by step instructions to install this split rail fence. Please take into consideration your yard space and also account for the frost line in your zone.

Supplies:

3 – 4x4x10 pressure treated posts
8 – 2x6x8 pressure treated boards
16 – Simpson Strong-Tie FB26 connectors
96 – #8 x 1 1/4″ Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD Connector Screws
gravel
rapid set concrete
miter saw or circular saw
drill
post hole digger
plant auger (optional)
measuring tape
level
string
stakes

Cut List:

5 – 4×4 @ 54” (posts)
8 – 2×6 @ 96” (rails)

split rail fence step 1

Step 1: Determine placement of posts and drive stakes into ground at each post location. Use string to keep the stake line straight.

digging holes for fence posts

Step 2: Use a plant auger to loosen up the soil where the post will go and then use a post hole digger to make the hole. Keep checking for proper depth. I live in lower NY and my posts are 16” in the ground and 38” above ground. I actually dug an 18” deep hole then filled the bottom 2” with gravel. Insert the post, check for level and plumb then add 4” more gravel. Add mixed concrete (rapid set) and let dry.

fence posts with connectors attached

Step 3: Attach the fence connector to the post 5” from the top. Then insert 2×6 rail and attach at connector and secure with screws.

It really is just that easy. Once you have all the rails attached step back and enjoy your new view. Amazing what a little effort can produce! This fence project was made super easy using the Simpson Strong-Tie fence connectors.

diy split rail fence

Do you have a corner in your yard that could benefit from a fence? Maybe consider a side yard that needs a slight division from the neighbors. I always dreamed of having a little fence and I’m so happy I finally took action and made that dream a reality.

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