What’s the best tool to cut picket fence?

[ee]

My picket fence is too long at the bottom. I would like the cut the panels shorter so that they don’t touch the soil before I start planting.

What’s the best tool to cut them shorter?

Thank you!!

 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @ee,

Thank you for your question about cutting the palings on your fence.

I would start by getting a chalk line and pinging a line where you want to cut. This will give you a good straight line to follow while cutting.

A circular saw would be the best tool for this situation provided you take care to ensure the irrigation and mains water meter are not damaged. However, due to the in-situ nature, this is not a "beginner-friendly" cut and I would not suggest this if you've had no prior experience with a circular saw.

If you are not experienced with a circular saw, I'd recommend sticking with a hand saw or enlisting the services of a professional to assist.

Once cut, ensure to add 2 coats of paint to the bottom of the palings to prevent water getting in and rotting them out.

Let me know if you have further questions.

Jacob