Ep 24: Fence 101: Digging Deep, Neighbor Etiquette, and Beating the Frost Line 🪵🏗️

Welcome back to another episode of How To Handyma'am!

This week, we're talking all things fences! Whether you're replacing an old fence or building one from scratch, we broke down the entire process—from planning your layout and digging post holes to setting posts, installing rails, and making sure your fence will stand the test of time.

Along the way, we answered some of the most common questions homeowners have about fence permits, frost lines, and even who gets the "pretty side" of the fence.

Tune in on Spotify or Apple Podcasts now!

Here is a breakdown of what we discussed this week:

A Dedication to Aunt Annie ❤️

This week's episode is dedicated to Samantha's Aunt Annie, who recently came to mind and inspired us to share a few memories.

Aunt Annie was the fun aunt—the one who encouraged adventures, wasn't afraid to get a little dirty, and always embraced life's chaos with a smile. Whether it was collecting eggs, exploring the farm, or simply making everyone laugh, she reminded us that growing older doesn't mean losing your sense of fun.

Our challenge this week? Be a little more like Aunt Annie.

The Four Basic Steps to Building a Fence

Building a fence can seem intimidating, but we broke it down into four simple steps:

• Dig your post holes.

• Set your fence posts.

• Install the horizontal rails.

• Attach the pickets.

Of course, each step comes with its own tips and tricks, but having a simple roadmap makes the project much less overwhelming.

Do You Need a Permit?

One of the first questions homeowners ask is whether they need a permit before building a fence.

In most municipalities, fences six feet tall or shorter typically do not require a building permit. However, local regulations can vary, so it's always worth checking with your city or township before you start digging.

A quick phone call can save you from expensive headaches later.

How Deep Should Fence Posts Be?

Fence posts are the foundation of your entire project.

We shared one of our favorite rules of thumb:

• Bury approximately half of the above-ground height of the fence post.

• An 8-inch diameter hole is generally sufficient for a standard 4x4 fence post.

• Posts can be secured using concrete, expanding foam, or compacted stone, depending on the installation method you choose.

Taking the time to install solid posts makes the entire fence stronger for years to come.

Do Fence Posts Need to Go Below the Frost Line?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions we hear.

For a freestanding fence, the answer is generally no.

Unlike structures attached to your home, fences are designed to move slightly with seasonal frost heave. In fact, allowing the fence to move as one system often helps prevent individual posts from shifting unevenly.

Understanding how frost affects your project helps you avoid doing extra work that isn't necessary.

Fence Etiquette: Who Gets the Pretty Side?

Believe it or not, there is actually a right answer.

If you're installing a traditional privacy fence with rails on only one side, the finished side—the side with just the pickets—typically faces your neighbor.

Not only is this required by many municipalities, but it's also considered good neighbor etiquette.

And if you're lucky enough to have great neighbors, it's always worth having a conversation before construction begins.

Plan Before You Dig

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that preparation matters.

Before purchasing materials or digging your first hole:

• Confirm your property lines.

• Double-check local fence regulations.

• Plan your gate locations.

• Measure carefully before ordering materials.

A little planning upfront can save hours of extra work later.

Our Biggest Takeaway

Building a fence isn't nearly as complicated as it first appears when you break it down into manageable steps.

With good planning, properly installed posts, and a little patience, it's a project many homeowners can confidently tackle themselves.

If you're thinking about installing a fence this season, we hope this episode gives you the confidence to get started. And if you have a DIY question you'd like us to answer in a future episode, send it our way—you just might hear it on the podcast!