I used to set posts by eye, but a job in Phoenix changed my mind

For years, I just eyeballed the line and tamped as I went, maybe checking with a 4-foot level. Then I took a big job in Phoenix last summer, 200 feet of privacy fence on really uneven ground. The first section looked fine until the client pointed out a clear wave from one end. I had to pull six posts. Now I run a tight string line for every single post, even on short 20-foot runs. It adds maybe ten minutes but saves so much headache. Anyone else make that switch after a bad call?

3 comments

3 Comments

brown.gavin26d ago

String lines are a game changer. I learned the hard way on a long run of cedar posts where the ground had a gentle slope you couldn't see. The posts looked straight individually, but the whole line had a subtle lean. Now I use two stakes and a bright orange string for every layout, no matter how small the job. It saves a ton of time fixing mistakes later.

wood.avery1mo ago

Is a slight wave really that big a deal?

johnp981mo ago

Ever tried to hang a shelf on a wall like that? That little wave can make it lean forward and look terrible. I ended up shimming it out with some cardboard behind the bracket.