How To Put Up High Tensile Fence

How to Put Up a High Tensile Fence: A Comprehensive Guide

Putting up a high-tensile fence is a rewarding project that can enhance your property's security and aesthetic appeal. However, it requires careful planning and execution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve a strong, long-lasting fence.

Planning Your High Tensile Fence Project

Before you even touch a post hole digger, meticulous planning is crucial for a successful fence installation.

1. Determine Fence Line and Materials:

• Survey your property: Clearly mark the desired fence line, taking into account property lines and any existing structures. Consider using marking flags or paint.
• Choose your materials: High-tensile wire is the backbone, available in various gauges depending on your needs (thicker gauges are stronger). You'll also need sturdy posts (wood, metal, or concrete), line posts, tensioners, and staples or wire ties. Don't forget wire cutters, post hole diggers, and a fence stretcher.
• Calculate materials: Accurately estimate the amount of wire, posts, and other materials needed based on your fence's length and height. It's always better to have a little extra.

2. Obtain Necessary Permits:

Check with your local authorities to determine if you need any permits before starting your fence project. Building codes vary by location, and obtaining the necessary permits ensures compliance and avoids potential penalties.

3. Consider Terrain and Accessibility:

Assess your terrain. Rocky or uneven ground will require more effort and potentially specialized equipment. Ensure you have access to the entire fence line for easy installation.

Installing Your High Tensile Fence: A Step-by-Step Guide

This section provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to installing your high-tensile fence. Remember safety first – always wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Setting the End Posts:

• Dig the holes: Dig holes deep enough and wide enough to accommodate your end posts and ensure stability (usually at least 3 feet deep). The depth will depend on soil conditions and local regulations.
• Set the posts: Place the posts in the holes and ensure they are plumb (perfectly vertical) using a level.
• Backfill and tamp: Backfill the holes with gravel or concrete for maximum stability. This is critically important for end posts which bear the most tension.

2. Installing Line Posts:

• Spacing: Space your line posts evenly along the fence line. The spacing depends on the terrain and wire gauge – consult the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Setting the posts: Repeat the process of digging holes, setting posts plumb, and backfilling as you did with the end posts. Line posts require slightly less concrete as they don't bear the same tension.

3. Stretching and Attaching the Wire:

• Attaching the wire: Start by attaching the high-tensile wire to one end post using staples or wire ties. Ensure the wire is taut.
• Stretching the wire: Use a fence stretcher to pull the wire taut along the fence line. This is crucial for maintaining the fence's strength and preventing sagging. Maintaining proper tension is key to a long lasting fence.
• Attaching to line posts: Secure the wire to the line posts using staples or wire ties, maintaining even tension along the length.

4. Adding Additional Wires (If Necessary):

Many high-tensile fences use multiple wires for added strength and support. Repeat the stretching and attaching process for each additional wire. Ensure consistent tension throughout.

5. Final Checks and Adjustments:

Once all wires are in place, carefully check for sagging or uneven tension. Make any necessary adjustments before moving on.

Maintaining Your High Tensile Fence

Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your fence.

• Inspect regularly: Check for damaged wires, loose posts, or any signs of wear and tear.
• Tighten tensioners: Periodically tighten tensioners to compensate for any wire stretching or sagging.
• Repair promptly: Address any damage promptly to prevent further issues.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a durable and aesthetically pleasing high-tensile fence that will protect your property for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult professional advice if needed.