Fences - Toenailing or Facenailing

We have gotten 4 estimates for a fence to be installed, and are getting conflicting information about toenailing versus facenailing.

What are the pros and cons of each method?

Which is better for sturdiness and long-term durability?

 

Well, I have a fence that was Toenailed, and my impression is it sucks for long term durability. Wood shrinks over time. I have had to repair several sections. Of course it could also be the original workmanship since I didn't do it myself. These days, if I can even consider doing a project I will. Saves money, and I know it is done right. It might take longer though.

 

Do not get a toenailed fence, they do not hold up under normal wear and tear.

While toenailing is great for interior studs, they also have drywall to hold them in place, a fence has nothing but air.

I would go with facenailing, however stainless steel screws are even better.

 

Our fence was toenailed. My installer really didn't give me a choice. I can tell you this. I'd never do it again. We have had a lot of our fence boards warp and this has stressed the toenails a lot to the point where some boards have come completely loose. As I replace these warped 2x4's I'm going to put in L brackets and screws. That's how I would have done it had I done it myself.

Geez in some of the 2x4's in my fence there are 7-8 toenailed nails... It's rediculous.

 

Thanks gator, we looked at a couple of neighboring fences that were toenailed and it's just as you and Neilz describe...2x4 braces are pulling away from the posts significantly, one post looked as if it had been hit with a chainsaw, not a hammer .