How to Hang Fencing Using T-posts

Mark the area where you want to install the wire fencing with powdered chalk. Measure the length of the marked line and divide it by 12, the spacing between corner and line posts.

Dig a hole into each corner of the area you want to enclose with a post hole digger. Lower a 9-foot 4-by-4 post into a hole and backfill the hole with prepared concrete. Nail two 4-foot 2-by-4s along the lower ends of each post, with their other ends anchored in the ground, to brace the post until the concrete cures.

Extend a string guideline between the wooden posts to mark locations for the line posts. Knot one end of a length of garden string around a corner post and stretch it to the other corner post. Pull it taut before wrapping it around this post. Run the guideline between the remaining posts the same way.

Measure and mark the ground along the guideline at every 12-foot intervals. Use powdered chalk to mark the locations for the T-posts. Stand the lower end of a T-post on a chalk mark along the outer edge of the string guide. Turn the post so the evenly spaced notches along the front of the post face inside the space you want to enclose.

Position the post driver so the inside of its top touches the upper end of the T-post. Grasp the handles of the driver and press it over the post to pound it into the ground. Make sure the flanges along the lower end of the post are anchored securely below soil level. Periodically check that the post is straight using a torpedo level. Drive the T-post 15 to 18 inches underground. Repeat the process of installing the remaining T-posts along the fence line, ensuring they are identical in height.

Stand a roll of chicken wire against the corner wood post. Insert 2-inch staples to secure the wire to the post at several spots. Stretch the wire taut to the adjacent T-post.

Attach the mesh along the top, middle and end of the T-post using two wire ties or lengths of baling wire installed diagonally at each joint. Twist the ends of the wire ties or baling wire with pliers to keep them from coming loose. Repeat the process of attaching the wire to the posts along the fence line.