Guide to Raking and Stair-Stepping Ornamental Fences

Shop: Ornamental Fence

More Information: Ornamental Fence System Overview

Raking Method:

When the grade of the property follows a slope a decision must be made on the method of installation. It will affect the type of posts that need to be ordered, if they are pre-routed to accept rails.

A line post has pre-routed holes on two sides opposite each other and the holes line up with each other so panels can be installed level to each other. On level ground this is fine. If panels are to be "raked", these posts will work also. "Raking" is shifting the panel out of square as in the following illustration.

There is a limit that some panels can be raked. With ornamental aluminum the limit is 12" over a 6' wide panel in most cases. Certain styles may rake more or less than this amount. Some styles can not be raked at all. This may be the preferred method in order to keep a uniform small space under the fence, so the family pet can't get out. If the grade is steeper than that or the style can not be raked, "Stair Stepping" is necessary.

Stair-Stepping Method:

In this case, order end posts instead of line posts, because the second set of routed holes must be higher or lower than the first set in each post. Since it is tricky to estimate the amount of drop or rise, it is best to field route the second set of holes to the desired offset. Each panel could be slightly different for a custom fit.

The same principle may apply to a corner post, if a "stair step" must be made at the corner. Order an end post for that corner also.