"Matt" wrote in message
oups.com...
I am in the process of putting up a wooden privacy fence. All the
posts are set and am at the point of fastening the 2x4s in between.
My question now is, do I put in 2 or 3 horizontal 2x4s. Will using
two do the trick or is it necessary to use three? Thanks for any
advice.

Matt


Having built more than my share of fences may I advise you to go the way
that I do.

3, 2x4 rails, the top rail, on top of the posts and the wide side parallel
to the ground. The 2 lower rails wide side perpendicular to the ground
between the posts. The bottom rail's bottom just below the top of the rot
board mentioned below. Attach the bottom rail with a nail or two to the rot
board and the posts
1, 1x6 or larger bottom against the ground rot board on the same plane as
the pickets. This board prevents the bottoms of the pickets from rotting
because of ground contact and this board when level will automatically give
you a surface to set the pickets on for fast and level installation.

All boards except the pickets should be pressure treated. Pressure treated
pickets are optional, I prefer Cedar.