Putting Up Fence Panels - With Screws ?

[CW1]

Hi,
Need to get some fence panels put up on a budget so thinking of roping the boyfriend in & doing it ourselves. He says I need an electric screwdriver. When I asked why, he says his brother (who's a carpenter), uses screws rather than nails. Is this usual now ? I can't see the struts would take a screw, let alone one long enough.

[dzug2]

Nails are more likely to split the struts - drill a hole first and use screwa

[Frank97]

I've used screws before, came in very handy when I moved, I took the fence panels with me.

[RATTER15]

Most people use nails without a problem, I know a professional fencer who only use nails, they very rarely split, I have put up many fences. the nice thing about screws however is it is more convenient if you need to remove a panel. I would use nails.

[frugalfred]

Consider galvanised nails - less likely to rust than steel nails.The later can produce streaky marks from rusting.

[Clanad]

You might wish to consider the galvanized decking screws. These are coated (meaning they won't rust) and are relatively inexpensive (at least here in the U.S.), but of course, more than nails.
If you elect to go with the decking screws, you'll want the "torx" head since they don't strip out and ruin so many of your screws. Seen here: Amazon.com User Recommendation ... Additionally, you will need a power screwdriver, but gee... almost all my friends have one or two... meaning you should be able to borrow one easily. If you invest in one, consider nothing less than 18V... such as one of these: http://www.bing.com/shopping/search?q=18V+power+screwdrivers&qpvt=18V+power+screwdrivers&FORM=HURE

Be sure to get the spare battery and charger kit...

[The Builder]

If you're not too experienced, CW, then maybe use these............

http://www.screwfix.com/p/fencing-clips-47mm-pack-of-25/18728

You'll need only 23-30mm galvanised nails (or screws).
It's much easier than trying to whack longer nails in through the panels. The posts probably won't take a lot of heavy bashing. They'll keep moving around unless they're substantial concreted-in posts.

[The Builder]

^^^^ oops 25-30mm

[beegeebee]

Just remember to blunt the point of the nail to prevent it splitting the timber when you drive the nail into the it.

[murraymints]

Nails will pull in high winds..potential fence crisis...screws will just loosen and fence will stand..I have high fence on both sides 200 feet long ...high winds but are still standing ..now I've screwed it all....didn't with nails !

[jomifl]

Stainless screws, the number you will need won't cost a lot and it is much easier to rectify minor errors, such as when you find one ofthe panels is upside down or back to front.

[CW1]

Whoever thought putting up some fence could get so complicated ! LOL

I've always used nails and rarely had a panel come down with wind, maybe twice. The posts are solid, and I've never blunted the nails 1st - that's a bit too much - so am erring on the side of screws. The lad who's helping me is a carpenter by trade so I'll ask him what he thinks. Mind you, doubt he's put fencing up before !

Thanks for all the advice though - just love this site for all the help out there :)