How do you build a fence on a hillside?

It is not uncommon that a costumer will need to be able to build a fence on a hillside. There are typically two methods to do so: following the ground (called sloping or racking) and stepping the fence down the hill. Most consumers prefer the sloping or racking method because it creates fence lines that match the slope of the hillside. In this practice, large gaps will not exist on one side of each section where there is a slope. The stepping method is a method that either has to be used because of the limitations of the materials or a preference for 90-degree angles and level horizontal lines. The disadvantage of a stepped fence is that it leaves gaps under the fence and, if the top of the fence is also stepping, gives varying privacy (one end of each section of the fence will be lower than the other end). Building a fence on a hillside does require some consideration of the materials needed and the method of installation. For materials, if you plan to slope, make sure you buy a fence product that has the ability to adjust to grade changes. A stick-built fence like Trex Seclusions easily adapts to slopes because the fence is assembled with brackets and rails that can be cut for angles. Trex also offers longer posts which is critical if you have a steep slope. If your post is not set deep enough, the footer will not be stable on the hillside and it's possible it can be displaced with erosion or wind. If you do prefer a stepped fence, Trex Seclusions gives you that option as does Trex with Horizons, a horizontal fence system that uses Trex composite components with an exclusive frame from FDS Fence Distributors, the source for Trex Fencing. Visit our installation resource page for instructions on how to measure and cut materials to build a fence in a hillside.