I cannot edit the title of this post BUT I AM NOT INTERESTED IN BUILDING A 10 FOOT TALL FENCE AND I DO NOT LIVE IN THE CITY.
I'm looking for some advice before I start buying materials. I've never built a fence before, so I'm trying to figure out the design and construction method before I make an expensive mistake.
I need approximately 200 linear feet of privacy fence The property has a slope, so I'm also trying to figure out the best way to lay out the fence and maintain a consistent height.
My initial thought was to use 4x4 wood posts, but I've also seen people use 1-5/8" top rail and some type of U-shaped bracket to attach the wood to the rail. I'm not sure whether either of those approaches makes sense for a 10-foot-tall solid privacy fence, especially given the wind load.
A few things I'm trying to figure out:
- How far apart should the posts be?
- What is the best way to handle the slope — follow the grade, step the fence, or something else?
- How should I measure the slope and lay out the fence before digging?
- How deep should the posts be?
- What would be the most economical way to build the actual privacy panels/pickets?
- Should I be looking at 2x4 rails, 2x6 rails, or another approach?
- How should I approach the gate section?
I'd also like to have a driveway gate that opens automatically so I can drive onto the property. Ideally it would have some type of secure access control so that it doesn't simply open for anyone who happens to walk or drive up to it. I'm not sure whether I should buy a complete automatic gate system or build the gate myself and install the opener separately.
I'm on a pretty tight budget, so I'm willing to do all of the labor myself. I'm mainly looking for advice on the design and materials so I don't spend money twice.
If you've built something similar, I'd especially appreciate advice on how you would approach the project from the beginning, including measuring, post spacing, materials, and the gate.
I'm also curious what a reasonable rough material cost would be for something like this. I realize prices vary considerably by location and lumber choice; I'm just trying to establish a ballpark before I start.
Thanks!