How to Build a Fence with Zero Experience in Concrete Walls

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I've never built a fence or have never done any outdoor construction. I'm pretty handy and do most of my interior maintenance. I have a total of 780 feet where I need to put up a fence. I'm still undecided if I want to build a wall of cinder blocks or an actual fence. I'm in Florida so the fence needs to be sturdy for high wind storms. This is why I am considering a wall instead.

However, pricing is a factor. Fence or wall, they are both pricey since this is to cover a 1.24 acre property. Obviously, wall/cinder would be more expensive but fence or wall, they are both $20k+ to do at minimum not counting anything in the front yet. That cost is for aluminum fencing with labor but I don't want to go aluminum and want privacy. With materials, time, patience and some friends, I figured we can build something solid and elegant. I just don't know where to get started.

For the sake of this post, lets just go with a wall. The cost here will be invested in materials but not labor even though time is money. With that said, here are some questions:

  • What appropriate tools should I purchase for a job like this?
    Considering I'll be doing more outdoor work in the future like
    pavers, asphalt and concrete, the investment in the right tools would
    be great. Cost of materials and tools would probably be A LOT less
    expensive than paying someone to do the work.
  • How do I get started considering I have never done this?
  • Any good docs/sites that have step by step guides on how to properly dig, rebar, etc?

I have a pickup truck so renting heavy machinery from my local Home Depot isn't an issue either. I also have a trailer to haul materials as well.

For what its worth, my property is flat so I won't need to change elevation when building a property wall. If this sounds more trouble than what it's worth, my second option would be a wooden fence by horizontally placed rather than vertical. Only the posts would be vertical, obviously.

Thanks in advance

Best Answer

If your main goal is privacy, take advantage of the fact that you are in Florida. You can grow things. Grow a hedge.

hedge source: https://www.ehow.com/info_7984475_plants-hedges-southwest-florida.html

Bob Vila gives 10 options for Florida hedge plants here. https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/the-best-10-plants-to-grow-for-backyard-privacy-50057

Hedges will maintain themselves. They will grow back if damaged by wind. They are prettier than a chainlink fence or cinderblock wall (!) and much cheaper.

I would look around and see who has hedges you like. If you have someone who is interested in aesthetics in the house, and who will be pleased to know cinderblock wall is out of the running, bring him or her with on your hedge seeking mission. Some hedges make pretty flowers. Clip off a piece and bring it to a nursery and have them sell you young plants. Use your energy to plant your hedges. You will have a "wall" in no time.

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