Tip #16
Fences and Shutters (continued)
Click here for a printer friendly version of Tip-
Pg. 1-3, Pg 4-6

Attaching Crossmembers

From left to right: (1) Lap joint to join top crossmember, (2) Turning a corner, (3) Bottom crossmember supported by nailing blocks.

Attaching Crossmembers -Your posts should be spaced 6' to 10' apart - any further and the crossmembers will sag. Nail your crossmembers to the posts as you set them to insure precise spacing.

There are several ways of attaching the crossmembers, depending on your design. If your fence consists only of posts and crossmembers, these can be nailed to the side of the posts or set in mortised slots. If you are going to attach siding to the crossmembers, nail the top crossmembers to the top of the posts and the bottom crossmembers to nailing blocks set a foot or so above the ground. Lap the top crossmembers for added strength.

Continue to Making the Siding
Back to Setting the Posts