23/01/2025 12:00 AM
Installing a garden fence or garden gate can be a rewarding project, but it requires the right tools to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Whether starting fresh with a new fence or repairing an existing one, the tools you choose will significantly impact the quality of your work.
This blog provides a comprehensive list of essential tools for kit-form fencing or fence panel installation and repair. From digging post holes to securing panels and gates, each tool plays a crucial role in completing your project to a professional standard.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-timer, this guide will walk you through the must-have tools for every stage of the process. By the end, you will know exactly what you need, why you need it, and how each tool contributes to building a sturdy, straight, and long-lasting fence.
It’s worth noting that this list may spark some debate among fence installers, as personal preferences and experiences often dictate tool choices. We have focused on the most essential tools for the majority of garden fence and gate projects, intentionally leaving out some specialised tools like concrete breakers and sledgehammers to keep the list practical and accessible. Rest assured, the tools included here provide a solid foundation for tackling most installations or repairs effectively.
Essential Tools for Wooden Garden Fence Installation
Buckets
Useful for carrying concrete, water, soil, or gravel for setting posts or other tasks during the installation process.
Clamps (e.g., Irwin Clamps)
Hold materials like fence panels or gates in place while drilling or screwing, ensuring stability and precision.
Claw Hammer
Drives in nails for securing fence boards or removes nails during repairs or adjustments.
Chalk Line
Creates straight guidelines on surfaces to ensure alignment of fence posts and panels.
Digging Bar
Breaks through tough soil, rocks, or roots when digging holes for fence posts.
Drill
Pre-drills holes in wood or masonry for screws or bolts during assembly.
Gloves
Protect your hands from splinters, sharp edges, and blisters while handling materials or tools.
Impact Driver
Drives screws or bolts into wood or metal quickly and with more torque than a standard drill.
Jigsaw
Cuts intricate shapes or adjustments in fence panels or gates, particularly when customising a fit.
Ladder or Step-Up
Provides access to higher areas, such as attaching panels or working on taller fence posts.
Levels (Spirit Level)
Levels are used to make sure the posts are upright, the fence, panels and gates are installed straight and level.
Adjustable Spanner
Tightens bolts or nuts on gate hardware, hinges, or brackets.
Pickaxe
Loosens compacted soil, breaks up rocky ground, or helps clear obstructions when preparing for fence posts.
Rabbit Spade
Ideal for digging deep, narrow holes for fence posts with minimal soil disturbance.
Rubber Mallet
Taps panels, stakes, or posts into place without damaging the material.
Saw
Cuts wood or metal fencing materials to the required length or shape.
Screwdriver
Manually tightens screws on smaller hardware or where precision is required.
Shuvholer (Post Hole Digger)
Digs deep, narrow holes for setting fence posts efficiently.
String Line
Ensures posts and panels are aligned straight and level throughout the fence installation.
Tape Measure
Measures distances accurately for post spacing, panel size, and gate positioning.
Trowel
Scoops and smooths concrete or Postcrete (post fixing mix) around posts or fills gaps around the base of posts.
While this list is designed to help any DIY enthusiast tackle a fencing or gate installation, there’s no substitute for the expertise gained from years of professional experience.
If you are unsure whether you’re up to the task, why not save yourself the stress and consider leaving it to the experts? Read about our trusted Approved Installer Network to find skilled fence installers who can ensure a flawless finish for your project.
Jacksons Approved Installer Scheme Fence Installation Tools
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