Setting out the first metal picket fence bay beside a gate

Measure the formed picket itself. Record the face width, profile depth and shape of the end that will form the top of the bay.

Look at the cross-section at the edge of the sample. Ribs and folds stiffen the thin sheet, and their position affects how it seats against the rail. Select the fixing detail for that section. When specifying length, allow for the factory end shape, especially if rounded tops are wanted.

Draw the ground line at the entrance and at both ends of the bay. On a slope, decide whether to step the bays or follow the gradient. For horizontal slats, check that the profile documentation covers that orientation and the proposed support arrangement.

For a single row, the combined picket widths, internal gaps and two end gaps must add up to the clear bay width. Ten pickets have nine internal gaps. Show both end gaps on the drawing so the layout beside the gate can be judged. Closer spacing or a second row calls for a fresh wind load assessment.

Hold two samples at eye level, one facing forwards and one backwards. Check whether the driveway side will have the same finish as the street side. With a wood-effect pattern, inspect both faces and record the coating option for the order.

Compare the picket with the gate frame in daylight. Gloss or texture can produce a visible difference even with the same colour code. Tell the supplier about exposure at the entrance, including road salt and areas that stay damp.

On the structural drawing, follow the load path from picket to rail, post and foundation. Give the bay height and width, clear gaps and exposure to open ground. A lightweight picket is easy to handle, but wind design requires information about the entire bay.

For the fixed bay, agree the rail positions and fasteners specified for the profile. For the gate leaf, obtain a separate detail of the frame, infill fixings and hinges. A common elevation aligns the two top edges, while the separate details show how each part is to be built.

Before fixing the first picket, mark both ends of the bay and its top line. Lay out several profiles with a spacing gauge and measure the distance left to the last post. Watch the sheet around each fastening as it is tightened. If it dents, check how the fastener is seated.

Make planned cuts using a cold-cutting method specified for the product. Protect cut edges as directed and clear metal filings from the adjacent pickets as well. Once the bay is in place, inspect the bottom ends. Leave access below the fence for removal of soil and wet leaves.

Reuse the approved bay’s picket count and lengths only for runs of the same width and height. List the corner bay, any short bay and the gate infill separately. Include posts, rails, fasteners, foundation preparation and fabrication when comparing costs.

Keep the finish sample or coating reference with the cleaning instructions. When inspecting the entrance, check for scratches and examine joints and edges on both faces. If damage occurs near the gate, inspect neighbouring fixings as well. The first bay drawing will help identify the right replacement picket.