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Jaime Costiglio

build - paint - sew

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DIY Split Rail Fence with Simpson Strong-Tie Connectors

July 26, 2017

* 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.
diy split rail fence

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.
Simpson Strong-Tie fence brackets

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
split rail fence in corner of yard
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.
split rail fence dimensions

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.

split rail fence detail

 

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.

SHOP THIS PROJECT:

I’ve used Simpson Strong-Tie products all over my home in various projects.
Check out my workbench inspired desk here:
diy workbench inspired desk
My girls vanity desks with fun hardware pulls:
diy vanity desk
How about a modular sofa and ottoman for indoors or outdoors?  Details here.
diy modular sofa and ottoman free plans
This circular coffee table is chunky and solid with a touch of industrial hardware:
diy round coffee table
Or something simple like an indoor log holder?  Basically a large rectangle to hold logs with the added touch of hardware connectors.
diy indoor log holder
What will you build using Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and fasteners?

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Filed Under: BUILD, DIY, EXTERIOR, SALTBOX PROJECT3 Comments

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  1. Patrick says

    January 3, 2021 at 8:45 PM

    Hello Jaime,
    Thank you for the rail fence ideas! Exactly the DIY model I was looking for. Best wishes to you.

    Patrick
    Yucca Valley, CA

    Reply

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