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To join two 4×4 fence posts, you can use various methods depending on your preferences and the desired strength of the joint. Here are three common techniques:
1. Butt Joint: Simply place the two posts side by side and secure them with screws or bolts. This method is quick and easy but may not provide the strongest connection.
2. Lap Joint: Overlap the ends of the posts by a few inches and secure them with screws or bolts. This technique offers more surface area for the joint, resulting in increased strength.
3. Mortise and Tenon Joint: Cut a slot (mortise) in one post and a corresponding protrusion (tenon) on the other. Slide the tenon into the mortise and secure the joint with glue or dowels. This method provides excellent strength and stability.
Choose the method that best suits your needs and skills, ensuring a sturdy and durable connection between the fence posts.
Fence posts are typically used individually. Only one post is necessary for a section of fence, but if you need to join two posts together, it is important to have a strong connection. Due to the size and weight of 4-by-4 fence posts, a strong connection requires more than just angled screws and wood glue. Countersunk lag screws provide the necessary strength to keep the two wood pieces together without compromising the straight appearance of the posts.
Step 1
Place a post between two tables. Mark the top surface where you want to install the lag screws. Three screws should be sufficient, but if the post is taller than 6 feet, you can use four screws. Ensure that the screws are evenly spaced and avoid placing them where other fence hardware, such as rails, will be installed.
Step 2
Use a 3/8-inch drill bit to drill holes through the 4-by-4 at the marked locations. Then, drill the same holes again using a 1-inch drill bit, but only drill 1/2-inch deep this time.
Step 3
Take the drilled 4-by-4 and place it on top of or next to the other post. Align them in the same way they will be when installed. Insert a long nail or drill bit through the small hole in the drilled post and tap it with a hard object, such as a hammer. This will leave a mark indicating where to drill on the second post. Repeat this step for each hole on the post.
Step 4
Attach the 3/8-inch drill bit to your drill and wrap a piece of tape around it, 3 inches from the end. Separate the two fence posts and begin drilling on the second post at the marked locations. Stop drilling when the tape reaches the hole opening.
Step 5
Reconnect the two posts. Place a washer over a lag screw and insert it into one of the drilled holes. Use a socket wrench to screw it in. Repeat this process for each screw.
