4 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Wire Fencing
Wire fencing can be installed easily without involving an expert. However, some people make mistakes that can affect the performance of these fences. This article discusses some of those common mistakes that you should avoid as you install a wire fence:
Using Trees
You should avoid areas with trees when you are planning where to install your wire fence. This precaution will save you from the temptation of using the trees as fence posts. People who use trees as fence posts often have to conduct costly fence repairs when the trees fall due to several factors, such as hailstorms. Avoid this eventuality by attaching the wire fence to the posts that you have bought for that purpose.
Not Selecting the Location Carefully
You should devote ample time to planning the places where your wire fence will pass. This proactive planning will help you to ease the actual installation task when you eventually reach that stage of the project. Pick locations which are free from difficult ground that can complicate the process of installing the posts or tensioning the fence. For example, avoid passing the fence through a swampy section of your property. Similarly avoid places with bedrock close to the surface if you lack power tools to dig holes for the posts. Only pass the fence in those difficult areas if it cannot be avoided.
Ignoring The Posts' Treatment Level
Fence posts may be treated to varying levels. For instance, posts that will be buried in locations with plenty of groundwater may have a higher level of treatment than fence posts that are intended for use in locations with limited groundwater. It is, therefore, important for you to confirm the suitability of the posts for your location with your supplier before you use those posts.
Cutting the Posts
You should refrain from cutting the tops of fence posts. This is because the longevity of those posts may be affected. For instance, you may expose the top of a wooden post to termite attacks and moisture ingress if you cut off the treated section at the top of that post. Similarly, you may compromise the corrosion treatment of metallic posts if you cut them. Notches for braces can also have a negative effect on the ability of the post to resist insect attacks or weather damage.
Fence manufacturers normally provide detailed fence installation guidelines. Some of those guidelines point out specific do's and don'ts as you install your wire fence. Familiarise yourself with those suggestions and seek guidance from experienced fence installers so that you avoid making a costly mistake.