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How to Lay Wire Fence

Wire fencing is an inexpensive way to build a physical boundary around a property or to pen livestock. Wire mesh grid fences are safer to install than barbed wire, both for the builder and livestock, and is the most sensible approach in most cases. Treated wooden posts are inexpensive and widely available, and therefore make a better option for most wire fence applications.

Things You'll Need

  • Pencil
  • Graphing paper
  • Geometry set
  • Safety goggles
  • Nontoxic field spray paint
  • Measuring tape
  • Shovel
  • Pick ax
  • Sledge hammer
  • 4-by-4-foot wooden posts
  • Heavy duty wire fence mesh
  • Staple gun and staples
  • Prefabricated gate
  • Framing screws
  • Power drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Draw a plan for placing the fence on graph paper with the pencil and geometry set while referring to a map of the property to ensure proper measurements.

    • 2

      Mark the post locations with nontoxic field marking spray paint by applying a large X on each post spot. Keep the distance between post locations a maximum of 10 feet in order to maintain sturdy support for the mesh.

    • 3

      Dig out the postholes using a shovel and pick ax. The deeper the post goes beneath the surface, the studier the post becomes. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one third of the post below ground level.

    • 4

      Hammer the posts into place using a sledgehammer. Fill any gaps with the soil removed from the posthole. Tamp down any loose soil with the shovel and sledge for a compact fill.

    • 5

      Staple the wire mesh fencing material to the wooden posts using a staple gun. Make sure the staples are at a 45-degree angle, pointing downward to provide the maximum strength. An improper staple angle can lead to the staple popping out when put under pressure. Unroll the fence mesh and repeat the process until all posts are joined, except for entrance locations.

    • 6

      Install a prefabricated gate by mounting it to the end posts of entrances with heavy duty framing screws and a power drill. Screws work better than nails because they require more force to pull out of the wood.