I'm building a fence out of raw wood for my trailer, and since I don't own the lot, I need to be able to take it apart later when I move. My landlord has given me the green light, which is great! I'm wondering if I should opt for screws that won't strip the wood, like those with a metal lining, or if there's a better option out there. Also, considering the wind conditions in my area, given I'm right in tornado valley, is this project even feasible? I'm pretty new to all this, so I appreciate any advice you can give!
3 Answers
If you're looking for something robust, consider using T-nuts if you have through-holes or threaded inserts to avoid stripping the wood. A major point of concern is how you'll anchor your fence to the ground, though. Earth anchors can work, but they're tough to remove. Instead, try building the fence on wide beams that run crosswise to help it withstand strong winds. Make sure to add some weight, like sandbags, for extra stability and design the fence to reduce wind resistance.
I’ve heard a neat trick: try coating the screws in Vaseline before installation. It can help keep them from rusting in place, making removal easier later. While I can't attest to how well it works since I haven't had to replace a panel, it could be worth a shot if you're concerned about corrosion!
For your project, stainless steel screws are a smart choice since you’re using raw wood that might get wet. They won’t rust as easily as zinc-plated screws, although they are pricier. Also, consider using carriage bolts with hex nuts for the removable sections and sticking to exterior-coated deck screws for the rest. This way, you can easily take apart and reassemble when you need to.