I'm still trying to tackle my backyard fence project. I started nailing on pickets today but it did not go as well as I had envisioned. Initially, I wanted a picket to cover every post so you couldn't see a post while looking at the fence straight on. The problem is that not all posts are spaced evenly. I nailed a picket on the corner post and one on a post where the terrain is still the same (this was a span of about 5 posts). I then ran a string from top to top. This is my "go-by" so all pickets are in line at the tops. I'm using a picket (3.5") as a spacer but when I get to the end post with the picket already installed, I come up short.

What should I do?

U can increase the spacing between pickets to make up the amount u are short or decrease it.

Measure the amount of area u are short and divide by number of pickets in area. If u have to add up to 1/4'' to the spacing it will not be very visible to the eye.

Chuck

Am I making a big deal out of seeing the posts? Is this common practice?

The appearance is more professional looking when u don't see the posts, in my opinion.

If it is not too big a problem, adjust the spacing.

Good luck

Chuck

Thanks for the help, Chuck. I redid the first section and it looks much better. Only 480 feet of fence to go.