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You can DIY a stockade fence installation, but prepare to put in some good sweat equity. For the best results, carefully plan the exact location of your fence before you break ground. In particular, carefully map out your post locations before setting them in concrete. Be sure to call your local utility company before digging to avoid damaging underground wiring and causing severe injury.

On the other hand, installing stockade fencing on your own might sound too overwhelming. It’s certainly time-consuming and labor-intensive. Besides the hard work, you must install it properly to avoid gaps. Unless you’re confident you can get the job done right, hiring a privacy fence installer near you is the way to go.

To choose where to add a fence gate, know where fence gates shouldn’t go. For example, you should avoid placing gates over low spots on the ground where water can collect and form muddy puddles. Many ranchers install gates at the corner of a fence. Certain gate placements may also be required depending on the type of gate latch you use.

You should stain both sides of your fence to get the full benefits. Fences often fall along property lines, so you may want to save a buck by leaving your neighbor’s side in the dust. If you do that, all you get is a slightly better view. Moisture and UV rays can still sneak in through the side that’s unpainted or worn down and damage your fence. Rot and rust will spread, even if you can’t see it from your side of the lawn.

You can use soil and gravel instead of concrete when setting fence posts. However, concrete is more durable and longer lasting, so it's worth considering if you want your fence to withstand the test of time. You should especially consider concrete if you live in a region that experiences severe weather, which can damage your fence.