This will be quicker with another person to help but it can be done
solo using screws and nails. Use short blocks of 2x4 in place of the
other person.

Working one section at a time, screw the blocks to the posts just
below the horizontal stringer boards. Remove everything except the
posts.
Obtain new stringer boards to span the gap between the posts and rest
on the blocks. Screw the boards to the posts and remove the blocks.
For an 8' gap, you need about 25 1x4x6 pickets. Have these delivered.
Using a level, re-install the pickets with 5-penny galvanized,
ring-shank nails. Done


On Sat, 26 Aug 2006 01:28:21 -0400, LJ wrote:

I need to replace several sections of "stockade" type wood privacy
fence. They are rotted and falling apart. I've tried temp fixes, but
they're so bad there's nothing for screw or nails to grab onto.

The posts seem okay, I can't rock them at all, and they are solid at
ground level (tried stabbing them with a screwdriver). So it seems to
be just the picket sections that are bad.

Is this something a lone female can accomplish? I can handle tools,
repairs, etc, but my main problem with projects is having the muscle.
Or would this be a two person job?

Also, would it be better to use screws to attach the new sections, or
is that overkill, and nails are enough?

I would like to say thanks for all the good folks that take time to
answer here. This group has helped me in many ways since becoming a
single homeowner four years ago. When I was married, my ex and I
worked on many projects together. However of course I've come across
projects on my older house that were never an issue when married. This
group is a great source of info.