The Gatepost
The Gatepost
Plain-English guides on fence materials, heights, permits, gates, posts and care, written to be read in a few minutes.
Choosing a FenceHow to Pick a Fence Color That Suits Your HouseWhite, cedar, navy, green or black: how color changes the way a fence looks against your house.
Planning and RulesFencing a Sloped Yard: Racked or Stepped?Hills do not have to mean gaps. Racked and stepped panels follow the ground in different ways.
Planning and RulesDo You Need a Permit or HOA Approval for a Fence?Many places require a permit or approval for fences. Here is how to find out what applies to you.
Care and RepairSeven Signs Your Fence Needs RepairLeaning posts, soft boards and sagging gates are signs of trouble. Learn what to look for.
Pets, Pools and PrivacyKeeping Dogs in the Yard: Fence Tips for Jumpers and DiggersJumpers need height, diggers need a barrier and squeezers need tight gaps. Plan the fence around the dog.
Pets, Pools and PrivacyPool Fence Basics: Height, Spacing and GatesA good pool fence is tall, tight and self-closing. Here is what to look for.
Care and RepairHow to Stain a Wood Fence So It LastsClean, dry, then stain thin and even. Prep and timing matter more than the brand.
Planning and RulesHow Deep Should Fence Posts Be?Posts decide how long a fence stands. Learn about depth, frost lines, gravel and concrete.
GatesGate Width and Swing: Getting the Opening RightWalk gates, mower gates and driveway gates each need a different opening and swing. Here is how to plan one.
Planning and RulesHow to Estimate Fence Materials for Your YardMeasure the run, count the posts and add a little extra. Here is the simple way to estimate fence materials.
Planning and RulesHow Tall Should a Privacy Fence Be?Six feet is common, but sight lines, slopes and local rules decide the right height for your yard.
Choosing a FenceWood vs Vinyl vs Aluminum: Which Fence Material Fits?Wood is warm, vinyl is low upkeep and aluminum keeps the view. Here is how to choose.Have a question that is not here?
Ask us. We turn good questions into guides.