MODERN SEMI-PRIVACY HORIZONTAL FULL SIZE FENCE INSTALLATION GUIDE

Components

The following components are included in the fence kit:

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

Before You Begin

Important Site Preparation and Safety

• Verify Underground Utilities: Consult local building departments, utility companies, or location services to ensure the installation 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 and obtain necessary permits before starting installation.
• Wear Appropriate Safety Equipment: Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and work boots.

Tools Required

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)

Recommendation: Use a power tool for fastening screws for efficient and secure installation.

Fence Location and Layout

Mark the Fence Layout: Use stakes and a string line to outline the fence location, ensuring it remains straight during installation.

Locate Gate Placement: Mark post hole locations for gate posts according to specific 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.

Visual Aid Description: A diagram shows a fence panel layout with measurements indicating 69 inches from the outside of one post to the outside of the next, and 64 inches between the inner edges of posts. It also illustrates the placement of the Board Stop Cable Assembly.

Gate Installation Considerations

Post Spacing for Gates

To add a gate, use two NC 5x5 Commercial Posts; standard posts are not sufficient for supporting gate weight. For a 48" wide gate, space posts 58" apart (outside to outside) to ensure proper hinge and latch function.

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

Gate Burial Depth

For Full Size and Perimeter Gates with a 3.5" ground clearance, the burial depth is 24". For a 2" ground clearance option, the burial depth increases to 25.5". For 2 or 3-board Ranch Rail Gates, the burial depth is 16.5".

Mounting Options

Our fences are engineered for maximum stability when buried directly into the ground. However, if in-ground installation isn't possible, posts can be surface-mounted using common bracket systems.

Surface Mounting: While this method doesn't provide the same structural integrity as direct burial, it's a practical solution. You can attach standard U-Posts using brackets like the RPBZ ZMAX Galvanized Retro Post Base for double 2x4s. For enhanced stability, insert a 4x4 pressure-treated wood post inside the bracket and the composite post. Securing the fence to an adjacent structure (house, wall, or corner) also helps minimize movement.

Warranty Note: Surface mounts will void your warranty for any structural issues.

Understanding the NC Universal Post System

The NC patented Universal Post 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.

Post Features

Board Stop

Each post comes with a pre-installed board stop. This feature maintains correct spacing between boards and ensures the last board aligns properly, leaving adequate room for the Top Cap installation.

Grooves at the Top

The posts have grooves at the top to accommodate the Top Cable Fastener during installation. These grooves also serve as attachment points for the Top Cap, which finalizes the installation and provides a finished look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my fence be painted?

No, painting is not advisable. Natures Composites products come pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. They are designed to maintain their appearance without painting, staining, or sealing, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and warm water.

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.

Prepare Your Posts

For Multiple Panel Sections

When installing multiple panels, bolt the posts together before the burial process to ensure proper alignment and simplify installation.

Assembling Posts

The NC system uses a patented design with a versatile U-channel post. Use the provided four #8 1-5/8" Truss Head Screws (G) to assemble the posts in the desired configuration. A Torx T20 Bit and power tool are recommended for faster, secure assembly.

Assembly Configurations:

• 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

To ensure 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) to secure the U-Post (A). Place the first screw toward the top of the inside of the U-Post (A), below the sliding top cap routing. Place the second screw toward the bottom of the U-Post (A), just above your grade line. Place the other two screws evenly between the top and bottom screws.

Precise Post Spacing for Installation

NC Top Cable Solution

Another patented feature of the NC system is the Top Cable Assembly (C), which ensures 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.

Installation Before Burial

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 to keep the posts aligned and properly spaced during this critical stage. The posts should be 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. 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.

Spacing Importance

• 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

Dig 12-inch diameter holes at least 25.5 inches deep to ensure proper stability when burying posts 25.5 inches.

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

Precise Post Spacing

Use the NC Top Cable Fastener to ensure posts are spaced correctly at 69 inches. Before pouring concrete, ensure the Top Cable is fully extended to lock the posts in place at the correct distance. Keep the Top Cable tensioned throughout the curing process to prevent movement or misalignment.

Ground Clearance

Ground clearance is essential for the fence's proper function and appearance. The NC system includes a Post Depth Stick (D), which provides a visual guide to ensure posts are buried to the correct depth, allowing for the intended ground clearance.

Visual Aid Description: A diagram shows the Post Depth Stick being inserted into the bottom cavity of a U-channel post. When the stick touches the ground, the post is at the correct depth for 3.5 inches of ground clearance. If inserted into the top cavity, it indicates 2 inches of ground clearance.

Lower the post into the ground until the Post Depth Stick touches the surface. If the 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 Base Cable Assembly taut to ensure posts remain correctly spaced. Continue using the Top Cable Fastener 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.

Fence Board Installation

The NC system comes pre-assembled with a Board Stop (H), which ensures correct spacing for the boards.

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).

Install NC Spacer with Velcro Dots (J, F)

After installing the first board, attach two Velcro dots (J) to the unfinished side of an NC Spacer (F). Position the spacer so it properly touches the Square Edge Board (E) and is secured in place within the U-channel Post (A). Repeat this process on both sides of the board.

Continue Adding Square Edge Boards and Spacers

Repeat the process with each Square Edge Board (E), using the spacers (F) to maintain alignment and ensure the correct gap between boards.

Install the Top Cable (C)

Before installing the last board, insert the H-shaped fasteners attached to the Top Cable (C) into the top cavity of the board. Once secured, slide the last board into place.

Ensure Proper Space for Top Cap Installation

After the last board is installed, ensure there is a proper gap remaining for installing the Top Cap (B).

Top Cap Installation

1. Slide the Top Cap (B) into the Top Cap Routed space on the top of the U-Channel Post (A).
2. Fasten 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 for both U-Channel Posts (A).

Additional Information

Patents: Our products and/or processes are protected by US Patent Nos. 11,053,707; 12,110,703; and 12,084,880.

For any further information or questions, please visit www.naturescomposites.com or call (307) 338-2608.