How to Install Your Fence - Part 1
This page gives you step by step instructions on how to install your fence made from COLORBOND® steel. It details equipment requirements and correct installation procedures including installation on sloping sites.
Note: If you are not confident in completing the procedure described below, please contact a professional fencing installer.
Before You Start, Read This First
- This installation guide does not cover fences above 1.8 metres, please seek advice from your supplier.
- Describe your site details when ordering materials (see "Site Details" section below).
- Identify the soil type for your fence site. Refer to the Table in Step 1. This will determine the concrete required for the job.
- Make sure you know the whereabouts of underground electricity, gas or water mains before you begin digging. Ring 1100 "Dial Before You Dig".
- Check your local council regulations on boundary fencing.
- Ensure you read through this guide completely before you begin to ensure you fully understand the installation process.
- Check the delivered material for the correct number of components and general condition.
Fences manufactured from COLORBOND® prepainted steel are an integral structure consisting of posts, rails and infill sheets. It is critical that the steps marked with the red exclamation symbol are adhered to for overall strength and durability.
These critical factors are:
- Ensure post holes are of correct size and filled with concrete (see step 1).
- Ensure that the recommended number of self-drilling screws are used to join two posts together (see step 2).
Equipment Requirements
Tools*
- Self drilling screw gun with clutch system (electrical or battery operated).
- Spirit Level or Magnetic Level.
- Rubber Mallet.
- String Line & Marker Pegs.
- Scissor Shovel and/or Spade.
- Wheelbarrow and Larry Hoe.
- Spud Bar.
- Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker.
Personal Protective Equipment*
- Safety Glasses.
- Protective Gloves.
- Hat & Sun lotion for skin protection.
- Appropriate safety footwear.
- Ear Muffs (if cutting required).
- Overalls (if cutting required).
Optional Equipment*
- Nibbler (if cutting required).
- Tin Snips (if cutting required).
- Tungsten tipped Handcutter (if vertical slitting of sheets required).
- Concrete Mixer.
*(most pieces of equipment are available for hire at tool hire centres.)
Site Details
Fencing made from COLORBOND® steel is designed to withstand most wind conditions. The wind on the fence at your site will depend on a number of factors, including where you live (see question b) and the number of surrounding properties (see question a). THESE DETAILS WILL HELP YOUR COLORBOND® STEEL FENCE DISTRIBUTOR TAILOR A DESIGN THAT'S BEST FOR YOU. If in proximity to severe marine conditions or bounding swimming pools please seek specific advice from your distributor.
a. What does your property look like? Choose the site that best resembles your area.
Typically having numerous closely spaced obstructions, such as houses or developed trees. These areas may have roads and canals less than 200m wide and open spaces less than 250,000 sqm. Example: typical suburban housing development which may include parks or lakes.
Typically has few trees and isolated obstructions. Examples: fronting open areas unlikely to be developed in the next two years.
b. Where do you live?
