Natures Composites Modern Semi-Privacy Horizontal Perimeter Fence Installation Guide

Components

Diagram Description: A visual representation of the fence panel assembly showing two U-channel posts (A) at the ends, with horizontal boards (E) spaced by NC spacers (F) and secured by a top cable assembly (C). Components B, D, G, H, I, and J are also indicated.

Before You Begin

Verify Underground Utilities

Use local building departments, utility companies, or location services to ensure the installation area is free from underground lines or hazards.

1. Locate Property Lines

Ensure the fence is installed within property boundaries to avoid encroachment and comply with legal requirements.

2. Consult Local Building Codes

Review local codes for fence and gate installation requirements. Obtain necessary permits before starting.

3. Wear Appropriate Safety Equipment

Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and work boots to avoid injuries during installation.

Fence Location

1. Mark the Fence Layout

Use stakes and a string line to outline the fence location. The string ensures the fence remains straight during installation.

2. Locate Gate Placement

Mark post hole locations for gate posts according to gate installation instructions.

3. Mark Corners and Ends

Identify the locations of corner and end posts.

4. Mark Intermediate Fence Posts

Posts should be placed no wider than 69 inches (5.75 feet) outside to outside for each fence panel.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating fence panel spacing. It shows two fence panels, each 69 inches wide, with posts positioned 69 inches apart (outside to outside). It indicates 64 inches between combined posts and shows board stop cable assemblies.

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 self-drilling composite screws)

A power tool is recommended for fastener installation.

Post Installation & Spacing

Can my fence be Surface Mounted or only Buried?

Fences are engineered for maximum stability when buried. Surface mounting is possible using common bracket systems (e.g., RPBZ ZMAX Galvanized Retrofit Post Base), but offers less structural integrity and voids the warranty for structural issues. For added stability in surface mounting, NC Commercial-Grade Posts with E-Z Base Post Bases are recommended, potentially with a 4x4 pressure-treated wood post inside. Securing the fence to an adjacent structure also helps minimize movement.

Understanding Your Posts

The NC patented Universal Post System uses a single, versatile U-channel post for all configurations (start/end, line, corner), simplifying ordering and installation. Each panel system includes two U-channel posts with:

Board Stop

A pre-installed board stop helps maintain correct spacing between boards and aligns the last board, leaving room for the Top Cap.

Grooves at the Top

Grooves at the top accommodate the Top Cable Fastener and serve as attachment points for the Top Cap, providing a finished look.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a U-channel post with a board stop feature. It illustrates ground clearance measurements: 3.5 inches (bottom cavity) and 2 inches (top cavity). Another diagram shows the grooves at the top of the post for the Top Cable.

Can I paint my fence?

No. Natures Composites products are pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured surface. They are designed to maintain their appearance without painting, staining, or sealing, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water.

Prepare Your Posts

For Multiple Panel Sections

When installing multiple panels, bolt the posts together before burial for proper alignment and simplified installation.

Procedure for Line Sections, Corner Posts, and End/Gate Posts

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

• Line Sections: Install two U-channel posts back-to-back.
• Corner Posts: Install two U-channel posts adjacent to each other, ensuring correct orientation.
• Start/End or Gate Posts: Install a single U-channel post.

Screw the Adjacent U-Channel Posts Together

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

Steps:

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

Diagram Description: Diagrams illustrate the three post configurations: Line Post (two posts back-to-back), Corner Post (two posts adjacent), and End Post (single post). Another diagram shows how to screw two U-channel posts (A) together using screws (G) at the top, middle, and bottom.

Precise Post Spacing for Installation

NC Top Cable Solution

The Top Cable Fastener ensures precise post spacing. The system uses two H-type fasteners and a 69-inch cable to connect U-shaped posts, ensuring exact 69-inch spacing.

1. Precise Post Spacing During Installation

Install the Top Cable before burial: Insert H-shaped fasteners into post grooves. Spread posts until the cable is fully extended to maintain alignment and 69-inch spacing.

2. Maintaining Post Alignment During Curing

Keep the Top Cable Fastener in place during concrete curing to maintain post alignment and spacing. This is crucial for the free-floating board system, allowing slight board movement without binding.

Note: Incorrect spacing can cause issues: too short, boards won't fit; too wide, boards may become loose.

Post Installation

1. Dig Post Holes to the Correct Depth

Dig 12-inch diameter holes at least 26 inches deep for proper stability, ensuring posts are buried 24 inches deep.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a post hole with dimensions: 12-inch diameter, 26-inch depth for 24 inches of burial. It also indicates ground clearance measurements: 3.5 inches (above ground) and 2 inches (above ground).

Setting Posts in Concrete

2. Add Gravel for Drainage

Pour 6 inches of gravel into each post hole bottom for drainage and long-term stability.

3. Set the Posts in Concrete: Two Critical Factors to Monitor

3.1 Precise Post Spacing

Use the NC Top Cable Fastener to ensure posts are spaced correctly at 69 inches. Ensure the Top Cable is fully extended before pouring concrete to lock posts in place. Keep the cable tensioned during curing to prevent misalignment.

3.2 Ground Clearance

Ground clearance is vital for fence function and appearance. The Post Depth Stick aids in achieving correct burial depth. If the stick is in the bottom cavity, ground clearance is 3.5 inches; if in the top cavity, it's 2 inches.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a U-channel post (A) being set, with a board stop (H) and ground clearance indicated (2" and 3.5"). A Post Depth Stick (D) is shown inserted into the post. Another diagram shows the Post Depth Stick touching the ground, signifying the correct post position for burial depth.

Can I cut my fence to adjust the length?

Yes, the composite material can be cut like wood. Ensure all boards are cut at the same place for even alignment. First, cut the bottom cable at the board stop. Then, cut the panel to the desired length. Adjust the Top Cable Assembly by cutting the top cable and replacing the bracket. Use an aluminum ferrule and stop set, crimped with a hammer, to reattach the shortened cable. This maintains proper spacing and stability.

Post Alignment and Curing

3. Maintain Proper Post Alignment and Spacing

Keep the Base Cable Assembly taut and continue using the Top Cable Fastener to ensure posts remain correctly spaced and aligned during curing.

4. Allow the Concrete to Cure

Allow concrete to cure for 24-48 hours before proceeding with installation.

Fence Board Installation

The NC system features a pre-assembled Board Stop (H) for correct board spacing.

1. Install Bottom Square Edge Board (E)

• Hold the bottom board (E) at an angle, insert one end into the U-shaped post (A), and rotate the other end into the opposite post.
• Push the board down until it rests against the Board Stop Assembly.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows a fence board (E) being installed at an angle into U-channel posts (A), resting on the board stop.

2. Install NC Spacer with Velcro Dots

• After installing 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.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows an NC Spacer (F) with Velcro dots (J) attached to a fence board (E) inside a U-channel post (A).

3. Continue Adding Square Edge Boards and Spacers with Velcro Dots

Repeat the process with each Square Edge 1x6 Board, using spacers to maintain alignment.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows the next fence board being installed with a spacer set below it.

Top Cap Installation

4. Install the Top Cable (C) Inside the Top Cavity of the Last Board

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

Diagram Description: Diagrams show H-shaped fasteners of the Top Cable (C) being inserted into the top cavity of a board (E) and the cable being secured.

5. Ensure Proper Space for Top Cap Installation

After the last board is installed, ensure there is adequate space for installing the Top Cap (B).

Top Cap Installation

1. Slide the Top Cap (B) into the routed space on 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).

Diagram Description: Diagrams show the Top Cap (B) being slid onto the U-channel post (A) and then fastened with a screw (I).