Installation Guide

The diagrams and instructions in this brochure are for illustrative purposes only, and are not meant to replace a licensed professional. Any construction
or use of the product must be in accordance with all local zoning and/or building codes. The consumer assumes all risks and liability associated with
the construction or use of this product. The consumer or contractor should take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the
project, including, but not limited to, wearing the appropriate safety equipment. Universal Forest Products, Inc., makes no warranty, either express or
implied, and shall not be liable for any damages, including consequential damages.
© 2001-2002, 2004, 2008, 2016 Universal Forest Products
®
Inc.
www.ufpi.com
8786_4/16
Fig. #4
Toe Nailed
Face Nailed
Mortise & Tenon
There are many ways to attach the backer
rails or stringers to the posts (see Fig. 4).
Place a board under preassembled panel
to use as a lever to adjust the panel to the
proper height on the post. All backer rails
should run the same measurement to the
ground and to each other on a horizontal
plane, regardless of minor grade changes.
Your finished product will be much more
appealing to the eye if proper attention is
given to this detail.
There are three options in finishing
treatments: stain, paint and waterproofing
sealer. Clean your fence with a cleaner/
brightener that contains a mildewcide,
prior to applying your finish.
• Stain provides a durable finish coat
while maintaining the natural look of
wood. A semitransparent stain is
recommended for new fences; it gives
an even appearance and hint of color
while allowing the grain to show through.
• Paint adds color as it protects and
seals the fence. The color can easily be
coordinated with your home. Clean,
dry and prime with oil-based primer
prior to painting the fence. A durable
exterior latex paint is recommended.
• Waterproofing sealer is best for woods
that are not naturally resistant to decay
and exposure to weather. The sealer
helps prevent rain and moisture from
soaking into the wood. Add a UV
stabilizer to slow the discoloration
process.
• The continuous changes in weather
conditions are hard on your fence.Your
maintenance plan must be geared to
combating the problems caused by water
absorption and loss, mildewgrowth, and
UV discoloration.
• First-year maintenance – Reapply
cleaner/brightener as described in initial
maintenance, as well as your method of
finish (paint, stain or water sealer). This
should be completed after 12 months.
• Future periodic preventative
maintenance – Depending on the location
of your fence with regard to direct sun
exposure, foliage coverage, etc., it may
be sufficient to clean/ brighten and recoat
every two years. A power washer may be
necessary to properly clean your fence.
Applying a protective finish is
recommended to prolong the life of
your fence. The type of finish will be
determined by the look desired, as well
as the species of wood used.
• Determine the swing direction of the
gate (left or right-hand open).
• Mount hinge hardware to gate frame
at the proper height, pre-drilling all
screw holes.
• Mount gate to gate post, pre-drilling
all screw holes.
• Check for full gate swing clearance
• Mount latch hardware, pre-drilling
all screw holes.
Connecting backer rails to posts
Gate installation Care and maintenance
Finishing your fence