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Posted: 3/29/2024 10:07:44 AM EDT
I was told by a guy that I should install a 2x4 like this all along my fence on the top rail to help reinforce it to hopefully prevent bowing or something.

Would this be worth the $200 in screws and wood to do it?

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Link Posted: 3/29/2024 10:12:54 AM EDT
[#1]
Why does it require reinforcing?
Link Posted: 3/29/2024 10:37:44 AM EDT
[#2]
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Originally Posted By PNFLDS:
Why does it require reinforcing?
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Wood warps. I think it helps keep that top board straight. But I'm not 100% sure.
Link Posted: 3/29/2024 10:44:08 AM EDT
[#3]
When I have built wood fences I always install the 2x4 like that.
Take one, prop up one end and stand in the middle and then rotate 90 degrees and repeat, which way is stiffer?
Link Posted: 3/29/2024 11:11:11 AM EDT
[#4]
What is the span between the posts? We split a fence install with a neighbor. We did 6' span. Not 8'.
Link Posted: 3/29/2024 12:01:45 PM EDT
[#5]
Wooden fence is going to warp like a motherfucker regardless how you install the stringers unless you live somewhere that the humidity is virtually constant.

No doubt the long side will support a greater load, but there is nothing to say it won't warp in that dimension.
Link Posted: 3/29/2024 12:03:33 PM EDT
[#6]
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Originally Posted By Hunter8793:

Wood warps. I think it helps keep that top board straight. But I'm not 100% sure.
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View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Hunter8793:
Originally Posted By PNFLDS:
Why does it require reinforcing?

Wood warps. I think it helps keep that top board straight. But I'm not 100% sure.

How about the middle and bottom rails? Seems unnecessary.
Link Posted: 3/30/2024 1:43:44 PM EDT
[#7]
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Originally Posted By PNFLDS:

How about the middle and bottom rails? Seems unnecessary.
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He said it flexes more at the top.
Link Posted: 3/30/2024 2:00:28 PM EDT
[#8]
I always install the top rail as a T, with the top plate horizontal and a vertical 2x4 centered on it. The vertical provides support to secure the tops of the pickets, then that the hardware is covered with a 3/8x1 1/2" ripped piece of cedar.
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