How to Install 3 Rail Horse Fencing

The technique for installing a 3-rail horse fence is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic carpentry skills and the right tools. With two pairs of hands, the job can be mastered in a short time, allowing anyone to ring their paddock with a classic Kentucky horse farm fence.

Things You'll Need

  • Stakes and twine
  • Post-hole digger
  • Fence Posts
  • Mattock
  • Shovel
  • Level
  • Iron tamping rod
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Chainsaw
  • Hand Saw (optional)
  • Timber planks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the stakes and twine to survey the fence line. The stakes should be placed where you anticipate setting the fence posts. The combination of stakes and twine keep the fence straight.

    • 2

      Leave an opening for the gate. The size of the opening depends on the kind of gate you choose, but it definitely requires some adjustments in the spacing of the fence posts.

    • 3

      Use the mattock, shovel and post-hole digger to dig the post holes. The holes should be between 18 and 24 inches deep, and the sides should be as vertical as possible.

    • 4

      Set the posts. Have a partner hold the post in place, checking it with a level. Fill the hole with dirt and then make it firm with the iron tamping rod.

    • 5

      Nail the planks for the fence railing. These should be in an alternating pattern in which the ends of the planks on the top and bottom rail meet. The center rail should be in the middle of a plank. Use two every time a plank is fastened to a post. The planks will sometimes need trimming with a chainsaw or hand saw to fit properly.

    • 6

      Lop off the top the fence posts where necessary to achieve an even look. The location of the line is up to the builder, but it should be drawn at least one foot above the top rail.