Tips on Barb Wire Fencing
Tips on Barb Wire Fencing
Barb-wire fence is an economical choice for homeowners and ranchers, and it is relatively easy to install with a few tools. Barb-wire fence can follow the contours of the land and does not have to be installed on level surfaces. rnrnBarb wire comes in two classifications: galvanized and nongalvanized. Galvanized barb wire does not rust and lasts longer, though it is more expensive. Nongalvanized will deteriorate quicker.
Straight Fence Line
Create a straight fence line by running a line of string as a guide for installing posts. It will increase the fence's durability if the wires run straight rather than offset a few inches. Fence posts should be set between 10 and 20 feet apart. Once your string line is stretched across the length of the fence, use a tape measure to mark off regular intervals for the fence posts. Use either flagging stakes or temporary construction spray paint to mark the location of each post. Flagging stakes and construction spray paint can be found at hardware stores. If you plan on spacing your posts more than 14 feet apart, consider using wire stays to hold the wires between each post. The stays are made of twisted wire that will screw onto the wide stretches of barbed wire. They help to keep the wires evenly spaced and add strength.
Keep the Barb Wires Evenly Spaced
When running multiple lines of wire, start with the top wire of your fence. The measurement between the ground and the top barb wire should be between 40 and 44 inches. Keep your measurements consistent on each post. This will provide more security for containment when working across uneven landscapes. For subsequent wires, a small mark on a hammer or pair of pliers can be used to evenly space wires as you work down the fence line. For example, if a mark is placed 14 inches from the hammer head to a point on the handle, lift the wire in the crook of the hammer head until it reaches your measuring mark. Your barb wires will run consistently without having to re-measure each individual wire.
Tie Off Loose Ends
Barb wire is sold in 1/4-mile rolls. The wire is wrapped around the rolls and is notorious for curling back up when first unrolled. Tie the loose end to something heavy to prevent it from wrapping around and injuring an unsuspecting bystander.
Uncoil the Roll
While a roll of barb wire is convenient for transporting, pulling it off the roll can be tedious. Place a 2-inch by 4-foot pipe, or some other type of rod, through the center of the roll. Use the rod as a handhold while dispensing the wire. This works especially well if there are two people, as one can hold each side of the rod. Tie the loose end of wire to a post, then each person should grab one end of the rod and walk in the direction the barb wire is to be placed. The coil will spin freely on the rod, and nobody will have to handle the prickly roll of barb wired.
