Build Zig Zag Split Rail Fence

He says acreage owners are adding split rail fencing also known as snake rails for rustic appeal and to add value to the property.

Build zig zag split rail fence.

Sam lough owns a company in west virginia that specializes in historic fencing. In colonial america split rail fences were built by laying logs on top of one another in a zigzag formation like this. There are two different forms which have a dramatically different appearance. Taking the rails you stack them between the posts and build to the height you require.

1 how to build a simple split rail fence. Traditional free standing split rail fences usually seen used for agricultural or decorative fencing have a characteristic zig zagging structure. While my neighbors property lines were neatly set off by picket fences and. At the length of a split rail away you put two matching posts.

This form can calculate the entire list of materials needed to construct a split rail fence except concrete and total price. Split rail fences are constructed out of timber logs typically split in half lengthwise to form the rails. 3 stretches in feet a stretch is defined as an individual straight line of fence unbroken by gates or other end posts. Split rail fences commonly have between two and four rails.

Use chestnut oak cedar or juniper rails for a fence that can last as long as 100 years. Worm fences also known as virginia fences snake rail fences and zigzag fences were one of the most common colonial log fence because they require only logs without need for special tools or. A split rail fence or log fence also known as a zigzag fence worm fence or snake fence historically due to its meandering layout is a type of fence constructed out of timber logs usually cut lengthwise into rails and typically used for agricultural or decorative fencing. Today s suburban fences are typically created with a different design involving rails that fit through the holes on posts.

You erect two posts side by side and no more apart than the width of a split rail. My simple ranch style home was in desperate need of discipline. Start with a fence bed that s at least 5 feet wide. Double post fences are easy to build and repair.

You can split rails yourself or purchase precut wood. Simply follow the steps on this page.