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Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Garden fences can be incredibly expensive, especially beautiful wooden ones. With endless options, professional installation often costs a fortune.

Are you a homeowner seeking a sturdy, budget-friendly DIY fence for your garden? As someone who's built multiple pallet fences on my own property, I recommend wooden pallets.

Pallets are robust, long-lasting, and often available for free. Today, I'll guide you through building a reliable garden fence using pallets—without breaking the bank—in just 4 straightforward steps.

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Contents
  • Advantages & disadvantages of a pallet fence
  • How to make a wooden fence from pallets
  • 1. Find free pallets
  • 2. Assemble the pallets
  • 3. Make the gate with a pallet
  • 4. Protect your fence from predators
  • 6 great wooden pallet fence ideas
  • 1. A palisade style fence with old pallets
  • 2. A fence with herb garden
  • 3. A fence with a flowerbed
  • 4. A fence with two rows of pallets
  • 5. A solid pallet fence for a pig and goat farm
  • 6. A removable gate on wheels

Advantages & disadvantages of a pallet fence

Advantages:

  • Extremely affordable!
  • Quick and easy to build
  • Stronger than they appear
  • Simple to disassemble and reassemble

Disadvantages:

  • Not tall enough for larger animals
  • Less refined than traditional fences
  • Requires DIY effort (a plus for hands-on enthusiasts)
  • Susceptible to termites
  • Doesn't block small rodents like rabbits or mice

Overall, a pallet fence is an ideal choice for gardeners wanting durability and savings without sacrificing functionality.

It may not be as polished as store-bought options, but it's tough, cheap, and user-friendly.

How to make a wooden pallet fence

Follow these 4 proven steps, based on my hands-on experience:

1. Find free pallets

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

You'll need pallets—obviously. The best sources are construction sites, industrial areas, and small businesses, where they're often given away to avoid disposal fees.

Pallets are in demand, so act fast. If local spots fall short, check classified sites like montasdebois.fr (great for wood giveaways in France) or equivalents like Craigslist elsewhere.

Standard size is 1.20m x 80cm, but sizes vary—match them for a uniform look. Measure your garden perimeter first to calculate needs and avoid extra trips.

Importantly, inspect for safety: Avoid pallets marked "MB" (methyl bromide treatment, highly toxic).

2. Assemble the pallets

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Assembly is simpler than it seems. Position pallets vertically in a straight line.

Secure with 8cm bolts or heavy-duty nails. Done!

Alternatively, use ground stakes: Drive them in, then slide pallets over. Slightly costlier but even easier.

3. Make the gate with a pallet

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Use one pallet for your gate. It's not car-sized, but perfect for foot access.

Attach hinges to swing it open, add a latch to secure. Simple as that.

For gaps, drive a post and latch to it.

4. Protect your fence from predators

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

For animal enclosures, add protection. Staple chicken wire inside using a hammer tacker.

This keeps livestock safe while deterring predators. Paint for polish or leave rustic. Versatile for gardens or farms.

Explore these 6 Great Wooden Pallet Fence Ideas for inspiration:

6 great ideas for wooden pallet fences

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Building basics are easy, but customize for style and function. Here are proven ideas:

1. A palisade style fence with old pallets

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Rustic pallets gain charm with age. Ideal for weathered wood. The tutorial here.

2. A fence with herb garden

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Top with planters for herbs or veggies—dual-purpose brilliance. The tutorial here.

3. A fence with a flowerbed

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Plant flowers around for stunning curb appeal. The tutorial here.

4. A fence with two rows of pallets

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Double-stack for privacy and height.

5. A solid pallet fence for a pig and goat farm

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Extra-tall and reinforced for escape artists like pigs and goats. The tutorial here.

6. A removable gate on wheels

Build a Free DIY Pallet Fence: 4 Simple Steps from an Experienced Gardener

Add wheels for a mobile wide gate—great for vehicles. The tutorial here.