Building a Modern Privacy Fence

This privacy fence is made with corrugated roofing panels, some 2x4s and pressure treated posts. I wanted to create a rather modern looking fence that provided an interesting look while blocking the view of my neighbors. This is not a fence that goes onto my property line, so I decided to make it as tall as possible, to create an interesting backdrop for a hangout space. Make sure to check out the full build video for a much better perspective of the build process and the final result!

Step 1: Layout

I created two sections that totaled 16 feet long, however you can obviously size this to fit your property. For the posts, I used basic pressure treated 4x4s. I also used some 2x4s and corrugated roofing panels that measured 38x96 inches.

Step 2: Notches

For the posts, I'm notching out three sections to hold the 2x4s. I began with marking out where those should be. On the middle post, I need to do the notching on both sides, whereas on the two end posts, I only needed to do notching on one side. After making my marks, I cut lines with the circular saw, making multiple cuts. Then I cut away the slivers of wood with a big chisel and cleaned the area up, using a chisel and a mallet.

Step 3: Routing

For the tops of the posts, I used a router to create an angle. That way, any water will run off instead of collecting at the top.

Step 4: Assembly

To assemble, I layed out two posts and put in the 2x4s in the notches, using a large mallet. Once each 2x4 was secured, I added some screws to hold them in place.

Step 5: Digging

Once I had my basic structure assembled, I marked out where exactly the posts needed to go on the ground, and then I used a post hole digger to dig the holes. In total, I dug three holes, and I made sure they where each 24 inches tall.

Step 6: Placing the Frame

Once the holes were dug, I placed the one section of the fence in the two holes, as well as the other post. I then secured the remaining three 2x4s to connect the pieces together. Checking for level, and adding basic supports to make sure the pieces stayed in a level position.

Step 7: Concrete

To secure the posts to the ground, I added some instant setting quickcrete holes, once I was satisfied with the level of the posts. After filling up the holes, I added some water using a hose to set the concrete.

Step 8: Securing the Panels

Once the posts were secure in the ground, as well as painted, it was time to attach the metal roofing panels. I first drilled holes in the metal on the sides, and added some exterior screws and washers. Then we carried the panels to the back of the fence frame and secured the pieces, adding one panel at the top, and one at the bottom, and then repeating on the other side.

Step 9: Cross Supports

To tie the whole fence together, and to add a nice visual touch, I cut some additional 2x4 pieces to fit in between the rails. I screwed two pieces on the bottom of each section, and one on the top. Once they were secured, I also attached the metal roofing panel from the back to the cross pieces.

Step 10: Conclusion - Watch the Video

For a much better perspective, and to see the final result, make sure to check out the video that goes over all the steps in this project!