How do I run string line in preparation to begin setting posts?

Your string line should represent the outside of your fence and not the center of your fence.  In all actuality, the string line will most likely represent the location of your fabric installed on the outside of your posts. 

  1. project-preparation-layout-6.gifInstall your stakes.  Install stakes relative to all corner, end, changes in grade and at intervals not exceeding two hundred feet.  Your stakes should be installed true and no more than 6” above grade.  Make sure you are using stakes that are at least 18” long to assure proper burial so that these do not move throughout the installation.  If you do not install stakes at changes in grade you will find your string line several inches or feet above grade or being held tight to the ground (or caught on plants, curbs, etc.).  This can easily throw your fence line out of alignment.  Hammer your stakes in clear of your post holes so that the stakes are not disturbed during digging. 
  2. Using your string line, you will run the string on the outside of the soon to be installed fence.  In other words, the string will run where the fabric or wood pickets  will be located.  At corner locations, you will create a triangle with your string, continuing on to the next run without cutting the string. 
  3. Run your string through gate openings to assure proper alignment from one side to the other. 
  4. Keep your post a ¼” off the string to assure that you do not push the string out-of-alignment. 

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© 2024 The American Fence Company. All rights reserved. Permission granted to reproduce for personal and educational use only. Commercial use, copying or distribution is prohibited without express written permission from The American Fence Company.