Natures Composites Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Fence Installation Guide
Sustainable Outdoor Living
Contact: www.naturescomposites.com | (307) 338-2608
Patents: US 11,053,707; US 12,110,703; US 12,084,880
Product Overview
Product: Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Fence
Dimensions: 3.5 ft. Height x 6 ft. Width (Nominal: 40 in. x 69 in.)
Note: Watch out for green boxes for Frequently Asked Questions! Please note hardware kit is included in-between U-Posts in box.
Components
| ITEM | QTY | DESCRIPTION | NC PART |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Product | 1 | Modern Horizontal Privacy Perimeter Fence | 100302XX30600 |
| A | 2 | 2.5" X 2.5" X 64" U-Post | 300722XX064 |
| B | 6 | Tongue and Groove Board 1" x 6" x 67" | 300340XX067 |
| C | 2 | Sliding Top Cap | 200721BK00C |
| D | 1 | Top Cable Assembly | 200030GV06900 |
| E | 1 | Board Stop Assembly (Pre-Installed) | 200720BK00000 |
| F | 4 | #8 1-5/8" Truss Head Screws (only to be used when screwing two panels together!) | ACSCR#8X1-5/8BRONZETRUSS |
| G | 2 | 1 3/4 Torx Composite - Top Cap Screw | TOP CAP SCREW |
| H | 2 | Post Depth Stick | ACPC POST DEPTH STICK |
Diagram Description: Visual representation of components A through H. A diagram also illustrates the placement of components F (screws), G (top cap screws), and H (post depth stick) relative to posts (A) and boards (B).
Before You Begin
Verify Underground Utilities
Use aids such as local building departments, utility companies, or utility 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 the installation.
- 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 the self-drilling composite screws provided by NC for both securing the posts and attaching the post cap)
Recommendation: Use a power tool for both operations to ensure proper installation of the fasteners.
Fence Location
- Mark the Fence Layout: Use stakes and a string line to outline the fence location. The string helps ensure the fence remains straight during installation.
- Locate Gate Placement: Mark the post hole locations for gate posts according to the 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 posts for each fence panel.
Diagram Description: A visual showing fence post spacing. The "64" INSIDE SPAN" indicates the distance between the inner edges of two posts, while "69" OUTSIDE TO OUTSIDE" indicates the distance between the outer edges of two posts. Two posts are shown with a fence panel between them.
FAQ: How should I space my posts if I'm adding a gate?
To add a gate, you must use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts; standard posts will not support the weight. The gate is 48" wide, and each 5x5 post is 5" wide, so space them 58" apart (outside to outside). This ensures proper hinge and latch function. For extra strength, insert a 4x4 treated wood post inside each composite post, ensuring they function correctly and reducing the risk of operational issues caused by restricted hardware space.
Understanding Your U-Posts
The NC patented Universal Post System is designed for maximum flexibility. Unlike traditional systems that require specific post types (start/end posts, line posts, and corner posts), the NC Modern system uses a single, versatile U-channel post that can be adapted for any configuration, simplifying the ordering process and providing flexibility during installation. Each NC panel system includes two U-channel posts, designed with features for smooth installation:
Board Stop
Each post comes with a pre-installed board stop. This helps maintain the correct spacing between boards and ensures that the last board is aligned correctly, leaving just enough room for the installation of the Top Cap.
Diagram Description: A post showing the "Board Stop" feature. Labels indicate "2" Ground Clearance" and "3.5" Ground Clearance". An arrow points to "First board rest on NC Board stop".
Grooves at the Top
The posts have grooves at the top to accommodate the top cable and top cap.
Diagram Description: Close-ups of the top of a U-channel post showing the "TOP CABLE GROOVE" and "TOP CAP GROOVE".
FAQ: Can my fence be Surface Mounted or only Buried?
Our fences are engineered for maximum stability when buried directly into the ground. However, if in-ground installation isn't possible, our posts can still be surface-mounted using common bracket systems. While this method doesn't provide the same level of structural integrity as direct burial, it remains a practical solution. You can either: 1) Attach the standard U-Posts included in any NC Modern Fencing Panel model using a bracket like the RPBZ ZMAX Galvanized Retrofit Post Base for double 2x4 nominal lumber or, for more stability, we RECOMMEND purchasing our NC Commercial-Grade Posts to place between each panel, anchoring them using the E-Z Base Black Powder-Coated Post Base for 4x4 Nominal Lumber. For added strength, we recommend inserting a 4x4 pressure-treated wood post inside the bracket and the composite post in this configuration. This ensures better support for screws and results in a sturdier overall installation. Additionally, securing the fence to an adjacent structure—such as a house, wall, or corner—will help minimize movement, as angles provide natural reinforcement. Please note surface mounts will void your warranty for any structural issues.
FAQ: Can I paint my fence?
No! Painting is not advisable. Our products come pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. They're designed to maintain their appearance without the need for painting, staining, or sealing—just occasional cleaning with soap and warm water.
Prepare Your Posts
For Multiple Panel Sections
Note: When installing multiple panels, bolt the posts together before the burial process. This ensures proper alignment and simplifies installation.
Procedure for Line Sections, Corner Posts, and End/Gate Posts
The NC system uses a patented design with a versatile U-channel post. The 5 composite screws provided should be used to assemble the posts in the desired configuration. We recommend using a Torx T20 Bit and power tool for faster, secure assembly:
- For Line Sections: Install two U-channel posts back-to-back to seamlessly connect panels.
- For Corner Posts: Install two U-channel posts adjacent to each other, ensuring correct orientation for corners.
- For Start/End or Gate Posts: Install a single U-channel post at the start, end, or gate section.
FAQ: Do I need to buy a line, corner and start/end post?
No! Our patented U-Post system is designed for ultimate versatility, allowing you to use the same post for corners, line posts, and start/end posts with ease. This simplifies installation and reduces the number of different components needed.
Screw the Adjacent U-Channel Posts Together
If you are placing panels next to the other, it is important to screw the posts together for maximum stability. Use the included four #8 1-5/8" Truss Head Screws (F) to secure the posts.
- Place the first screw (F) toward the top of the inside of the U-Post (A). Make sure it is below the siding top cap routing!
- Place the second screw (F) toward the bottom of the U-Post (A) just above your grade line.
- Place the other two screws evenly between the top and bottom as pictured on the right.
Diagram Description: A visual showing two U-channel posts (A) being joined. Arrows indicate the placement of screws (F) at the top, bottom, and mid-points of the posts.
Precise Post Spacing for Installation
NC Top Cable Solution
Another patented feature of the NC system is the Top Cable Fastener, which ensures precise post spacing during installation.
- Precise Post Spacing During Installation
- The Top Cable system consists of two H-type fasteners and a 69-inch cable connecting them. This ensures the precise spacing required for the fence panels to function properly.
- Install the Top Cable before the burial process: Insert the H-shaped fasteners into the grooves of the U-shaped posts. Spread the posts apart until the cable is fully extended. This keeps the posts aligned and properly spaced during this critical stage. The posts are spaced at exactly 69 inches.
- Maintaining Post Alignment During Curing
The Top Cable Fastener should remain in place throughout the concrete curing process. This keeps the posts aligned and properly spaced during this critical stage.
Note: The Top Cable Fastener is essential for maintaining the correct spacing for the free-floating board system, allowing the boards to move slightly without binding or falling out.
- If Spacing is Too Short: Boards will not fit correctly between the posts.
- If Spacing is Too Wide: Boards may become loose and potentially fall out of the channels.
Post Installation
- Dig Post Holes to the Correct Depth
Dig 12-inch diameter holes at least 25.5 inches deep to ensure proper stability when burying posts 25.5 inches.
Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating post hole depth and ground clearance. It shows "24" - 3.5 inch clearance above ground" and "25.5" - 2 inch clearance above ground". It also indicates the hole diameter as "8"-12"".
- Add Gravel for Drainage
Pour 6 inches of gravel into the bottom of each post hole to improve drainage and ensure long-term stability.
- Set the Posts in Concrete: Two Critical Factors to Monitor
When setting the posts in concrete, monitor two critical factors to ensure the correct installation:
- Precise Post Spacing: Use the NC Top Cable Fastener to ensure posts are spaced correctly at 69 inches. Before pouring the concrete, ensure that the Top Cable (D) is fully extended to lock the posts in place at the correct distance, allowing proper fence panel installation. Keep the Top Cable (D) tensioned throughout the curing process to prevent any movement or misalignment of the posts.
- Ground Clearance: Ground clearance is essential for the proper function and appearance of the fence. The NC system includes a Post Depth Stick (H), which provides a visual guide to ensure posts are buried to the correct depth, allowing for the intended ground clearance:
- If the Post Depth Stick (H) is installed in the bottom cavity, the ground clearance will be 3 ½ inches.
- If installed in the top cavity, the ground clearance will be 2 inches.
Diagram Description: A visual showing a post being set in concrete. It highlights the "Board Stop", "Post Depth Stick (H)", and ground clearance labels ("2" Ground Clearance", "3.5" Ground Clearance"). A separate image shows the post depth stick touching the ground, with text stating "When the 'post Depth stick' touches the ground, the post is in the correct position".
Lower the post into the ground until the Post Depth Stick touches the surface. This ensures that the post has been buried to the correct depth. If the terrain is uneven, ensure that both posts are at a consistent depth and aligned horizontally. Use a Post Bubble Level to check for vertical alignment.
Post Installation (Continued)
- Maintain Proper Post Alignment and Spacing
Keep the Base Cable Assembly taut to ensure the posts remain correctly spaced. Additionally, continue to use the Top Cable (D) to maintain proper post alignment during the curing process.
- Allow the Concrete to Cure
Allow the concrete to cure for 24-48 hours before proceeding with installation.
Diagram Description: A simple illustration of posts with the "Top Cable" connecting them.
FAQ: Can I cut my fence to adjust the length?
Yes, our proprietary wheat-based composite formula can be cut just like wood using standard wood-cutting tools. When cutting a fence panel or ranch rail down, make sure to cut all boards at the same place to avoid creating an uneven alignment. First, you must remove the bottom cable by cutting it at the board stop. Then, once the panel is cut to your desired length, you will also need to adjust the Top Cable Assembly, which helps keep the posts plumb and properly spaced. To do this, cut the top cable to the desired length and remove the top cable bracket at the end, as it will need to be replaced. You will need to purchase an aluminum ferrule and stop set to reattach the shortened cable, ensuring it functions correctly. You can reattach it by hitting it with a hammer to crimp it back into place. Following these steps will help maintain proper spacing and stability during your fence installation.
4. BOARD INSTALLATION
- After concrete has set, it is time to move into fence board installation.
- The Hollow Tongue and Groove Boards (B) come pre-cut to the proper post spacing.
- Install Hollow Tongue and Groove Boards (B) with the tongue of the fence facing up and the groove in the fence board facing down. Hold the fence board at an angle and insert one end into the channel of the post. Then rotate the other end of the fence board down until it slides into the channel of the other post. Push the first fence board down until it comes to rest meeting the Board Stop Assembly (E).
- Install fence boards about halfway up by repeating the above step, pressing each groove onto the other previous board's tongue. DO NOT USE A HAMMER TO FORCE THE FENCE BOARD INTO POSITION, AS IT MAY DAMAGE THE COMPOSITE FENCE BOARDS!
- Remove the Top Cable Assembly from Posts and install into the Top Hollow Tongue and Groove Board.
- Install the remaining board, except the Top Board with the Top Cap Assembly.
- Install Top Board with Top Cable Assembly: To do this, rotate the Top Cable Bracket so that it is perpendicular to the Board. Then slide the Board with the Cable assembly down the U-Channel Post so that the Top Cable Bracket lines up with the routed space. Continue pressing down the Top Board until its groove is on the previous board's tongue.
Diagram Description: A visual sequence showing the installation of fence boards (B) into U-channel posts (A). The first diagram shows a board being angled into the posts. The second diagram shows the top board being installed with the "Top Cable Assembly".
TOP CAP INSTALL
- Slide the Top Cap (C) into the Top Cap Routed space on the top of the U-Channel post.
- Fasten the Top Cap (C) using the provided 1-3/4 Torx Composite Screws (G) with a Torx T20 Bit and power tool.
- Repeat for both U-Channel Posts (A).
Diagram Description: A close-up view of a U-channel post (A) with a board (B) inserted. The "Top Cap (C)" is shown being placed onto the post. Another view shows the "Top Cap (C)" secured with a screw (G) into the post (A).
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