Natures Composites Modern Semi-Privacy Horizontal Full Size Fence

Components

Note: Frequently Asked Questions are highlighted in green boxes.

*Hardware kit is included in-between U-Posts in the box.

Before You Begin

Preparation Steps

• Verify Underground Utilities: Use local building departments, utility companies, or location services to ensure the area is free from underground lines or hazards. ⚠️
• Locate Property Lines: Ensure the fence is installed within your property boundaries to avoid encroachment and comply with legal requirements.
• Consult Local Building Codes: Review local codes to ensure the fence and gate installation meets all requirements. Obtain any necessary permits before starting.
• Wear Appropriate Safety Equipment: Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and work boots to avoid injuries during installation. ⛑️

Tools Required

Tools for Preparing the Fence and Post Burial:

• Tape Measure
• Post Hole Digger & Shovel
• Post Bubble Level (for ensuring posts are vertically aligned at 90 degrees)
• Level and String Line
• Wheelbarrow
• Stakes or Markers
• Torx T20 Bit (for fastening screws)

It is recommended to use a power tool for fastening operations to ensure proper installation.

Fence Location Planning

• Mark the Fence Layout: Use stakes and a string line to outline the fence location, ensuring it remains straight.
• Locate Gate Placement: Mark post hole locations for gate posts according to gate installation instructions.
• Mark Corners and Ends: Identify the locations of corner and end posts.
• Mark Intermediate Fence Posts: Posts should be placed no wider than 69 inches (5.75 feet) outside to outside for each fence panel.

Gate Installation Considerations

Adding a Gate: If adding a gate, you must use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts, as standard posts will not support the weight. The gate is 48" wide, and each post is 5" wide. Space them 58" apart (outside to outside) for proper hinge and latch function.

For added strength, insert a 4x4 treated wood post inside each composite post.

Burial Depth for Gates:

• Full Size and Perimeter Gates with 3.5" ground clearance: 24" burial depth.
• Full Size and Perimeter Gates with 2" ground clearance: 25.5" burial depth.
• 2 or 3-board Ranch Rail Gates: 16.5" burial depth.

Fence Panel Spacing Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates fence panel spacing. Two 69" fence panels are shown. The distance between the outside edges of posts for one panel is 69 inches. The space between the inner edges of two posts (64" between combined posts) is also indicated, showing the Board Stop Cable Assembly connecting the posts.

Surface Mounting vs. Burial

Installation Method: Our fences are engineered for maximum stability when buried directly into the ground. If in-ground installation is not possible, posts can be surface-mounted using common bracket systems. Note that surface mounting does not provide the same structural integrity as direct burial and will void the warranty for any structural issues.

Surface Mounting Options:

1. Attach standard U-Posts using a bracket like the RPBZ ZMAX Galvanized Retro Post Base for double 2x4s.
2. For added stability, insert a 4x4 pressure-treated wood post inside the bracket and the composite post.

Securing the fence to an adjacent structure (house, wall, corner) can help minimize movement due to natural reinforcement from angles.

Understanding Your Posts

NC Patented Universal Post System: This system offers maximum flexibility. Unlike traditional systems requiring specific post types (start/end, line, corner), the NC Modern system uses a single, versatile U-channel post for any configuration, simplifying ordering and installation.

Each NC panel system includes two U-channel posts designed for smooth installation:

• Board Stop: Each post has a pre-installed board stop to maintain correct spacing between boards and align the last board properly, leaving space for the Top Cap. [Board Stop]
• Grooves at the Top: The posts feature grooves at the top to accommodate the Top Cable Fastener and serve as attachment points for the Top Cap, completing the fence's finished look. [Top Cable Fastener / Top Cap Attachment]

Painting: Painting is not advisable. Natures Composites products come pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. They require only occasional cleaning with soap and warm water.

Prepare Your Posts

U-Post System Versatility: No need to buy separate line, corner, and start/end posts. The patented U-Post system allows the same post to be used for all configurations, simplifying installation.

For Multiple Panel Sections:

• Note: When installing multiple panels, bolt the posts together before burial to ensure proper alignment.

Procedure for Assembling U-Channel Posts:

The NC system uses a patented design with a versatile U-channel post. Use the provided composite screws with a Torx T20 Bit and power tool for faster, secure assembly.

• Line Sections: Install two U-channel posts back-to-back to seamlessly connect panels.
• Corner Posts: Install two U-channel posts adjacent to each other, ensuring correct orientation for corners.
• Start/End or Gate Posts: Install a single U-channel post at the start, end, or gate section.

Securing Adjacent U-Channel Posts Together

For maximum stability when placing panels next to each other, screw the posts together using the included four #8 1-5/8" Truss Head Screws (G).

1. Place the first screw (G) toward the top inside of the U-Post (A), below the top cap routing.
2. Place the second screw (G) toward the bottom of the U-Post (A), just above the grade line.
3. Place the other two screws evenly between the top and bottom screws.

Diagram Description: Shows two U-channel posts (A) being joined by screws (G) at top, bottom, and mid-points.

Precise Post Spacing for Installation

NC Top Cable Solution: This patented feature ensures precise post spacing. The Top Cable Assembly (C) consists of two H-type fasteners and a 69-inch cable.

1. Install Top Cable Before Burial: Insert the H-shaped fasteners into the grooves of the U-shaped posts. Spread the posts apart until the cable is fully extended, ensuring they are spaced at exactly 69 inches. This keeps the posts aligned and properly spaced during this critical stage.
2. Maintain Alignment During Curing: The Top Cable Fastener must remain in place throughout the concrete curing process to prevent movement or misalignment.

Importance of Spacing: The Top Cable Fastener is essential for the free-floating board system, allowing boards to move slightly without binding.

• If spacing is too short: Boards will not fit correctly.
• If spacing is too wide: Boards may become loose and fall out.

Post Installation

1. Dig Post Holes: Dig 12-inch diameter holes at least 25.5 inches deep for proper stability.
2. Add Gravel for Drainage: Pour 6 inches of gravel into the bottom of each hole to improve drainage and long-term stability.
3. Set Posts in Concrete: Two critical factors must be monitored:
   • Precise Post Spacing: Use the NC Top Cable Fastener to ensure posts are spaced correctly at 69 inches. Keep the cable tensioned throughout curing to prevent movement.
   • Ground Clearance: Ground clearance is essential for function and appearance. The Post Depth Stick (D) provides a visual guide.
     • If the Post Depth Stick is installed in the bottom cavity: 3.5 inches ground clearance.
     • If installed in the top cavity: 2 inches ground clearance.

Diagram Description: Shows a U-channel post (A) being lowered into a hole. The Post Depth Stick (D) is shown touching the ground surface, indicating correct burial depth. The Top Cable (C) is shown keeping the posts aligned.

Lower the post until the Post Depth Stick touches the ground. If terrain is uneven, ensure both posts are at a consistent depth and aligned horizontally. Use a Post Bubble Level to check for vertical alignment.

Maintain Proper Post Alignment and Spacing: Keep the Top Cable Assembly taut. Continue using the Top Cable Fastener during the curing process.

Allow Concrete to Cure: Let the concrete cure for 24-48 hours before proceeding.

Fence Board Installation

The NC system comes pre-assembled with a Board Stop (H) to ensure correct board spacing.

1. Install Bottom Square Edge Board (E): Hold the bottom board (E) at an angle and insert one end into the U-shaped post (A). Rotate the other end into the opposite post. Push the board down until it rests against the Board Stop Assembly (H).
2. Install NC Spacer with Velcro Dots (J, F): After adding the first board, attach two Velcro dots (J) to the unfinished side of an NC Spacer (F). Position the spacer so it touches the Square Edge Board (E) and is secured within the U-channel Post (A). Repeat on both sides.
3. Continue Adding Boards and Spacers: Repeat the process with each Square Edge Board (E), using the spacers (F) to maintain alignment.
4. Install Top Cable (C) Inside Top Cavity: Before installing the last board, insert the H-shaped fasteners attached to the Top Cable (C) into the top cavity of the board. Slide the last board into place.
5. Ensure Space for Top Cap: After the last board is installed, ensure there is a proper gap for installing the Top Cap (B).

Diagram Description: Shows boards (E) being inserted into posts (A), with spacers (F) and Velcro dots (J) being used. The Top Cable (C) is shown being inserted into the top cavity of the last board.

Top Cap Installation

1. Slide Top Cap: Slide the Top Cap (B) into the Top Cap Routed space on the top of the U-Channel Post (A).
2. Fasten Top Cap: Secure the Top Cap (B) using one of the provided 1-5/8 Torx Composite Screws (I) with a Torx T20 Bit and power tool.
3. Repeat: Repeat for both U-Channel Posts (A).

Diagram Description: Shows the Top Cap (B) being placed onto the U-channel post (A) and secured with a screw (I).

Cutting Fence Panels to Adjust Length

Cutting Composite Material: Natures Composites' proprietary wheat-based composite formula can be cut using standard woodcutting tools.

Procedure for Cutting:

1. Cut all boards at the same place to avoid uneven alignment.
2. Remove the bottom cable by cutting it at the board stop.
3. Once the panel is cut to the desired length, adjust the Top Cable Assembly. Cut the top cable to the desired length and remove the top cable bracket at the end.
4. Replace the removed bracket with a new aluminum ferrule and stop set. Reattach the shortened cable by crimping the ferrule with a hammer.

Following these steps will help maintain proper spacing and stability.