Six steps. Two people. One weekend per 60 feet.
Baseline installation rules for our cedar panel line. Code details vary by region — always confirm against local requirements.
Lay out posts at 96″ on centre
Mark every post centre at 96″ (8 ft) along the run. Our panels are 96″ nominal and fit flush between 4×4 or 6×6 posts.
Dig to frost depth
Post holes should reach minimum 48″ in Zone 5a and 56″ in Zone 4b. Deeper in the Maritimes. Always check local code.
Set posts in 3:1 gravel or concrete
We prefer a 3:1 crushed-gravel tamp with a 4″ concrete collar at grade. Avoid full-concrete footings on cedar posts — they trap moisture.
Dry-fit panels, level and shim
Set panels in place before fastening. Gap 3/16″ at grade for airflow and expansion. Use cedar shims if terrain pitches.
Fasten with hot-dip galvanised or stainless
Cedar: hot-dip galvanised 2½″ ring-shank is fine. PT: use stainless — ACQ corrodes galvanised over five years. Four fasteners per rail end.
Cap and finish
Post caps go on last. Cedar ages to silver-grey naturally; if you want to hold the amber tone, apply a penetrating oil stain after 60 days.
- 01Post-hole digger or one-person auger
- 024 ft and 6 ft levels
- 03Framing hammer or impact driver + ring-shank nails
- 043/16″ spacers (cedar shims work)
- 05Chalk line and mason’s twine
- 06Two workhorses
Need a crew to install it?
As our dealer network and installer relationships grow, we’ll list vetted fence-install crews here. For now, message us — we’ll point you toward crews working in the GTA wherever we can.