- 1). Measure and mark the positions of the rails on the first post. Tie a string onto the post at the level of one rail-mark. Tie the other end of the string to an adjacent post at approximately the same height with the string taut. Hang a line-level on the string and move the knot on the second post up or down until the line is level. Mark the second post at the level of the knot. Repeat to mark the levels of the second and/or third rails on the posts. Measure and note the distances between the centers of the posts at the levels of the marks. Remove the line level.
- 2). Measure and cut the rails to the measured distances between the posts. If the posts are not exactly plumb, the distances between the posts at various heights may not be the same.
- 3). Stand on the back side of the fence. Fit the adapter onto the round steel post at the level of the first rail mark. The curved portion of the adapter will face you. The flattened, predrilled portion of the adapter will face the front of the fence and your assistant. Ask your assistant to support the rail, holding it so the end of the rail is centered to the post. Use a drill and driving bit to screw the adapter to the rail from the back side with 1 1/2-inch screws. Repeat, attaching the rail to the second post in the same manner. Work around the perimeter of the fence, installing all top rails first, then proceeding to install the second or third rails.
- 4). Install infill pickets or planks by screwing them to the rails with 1 1/4-inch screws. Two screws, aligned horizontally, typically suffice to hold the picket or plank securely to each rail. Make sure the first plank is plumb and recheck with a carpenter's level every two or three planks to ensure they are installed plumb. To ensure the top of the fence is level, place the carpenter's level horizontally on top of the last installed plank and level it. Position the next plank so its top meets the lower surface of the level. Continue installing the infill planks until the fence job is completed.
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