Attaching Chicken Wire To Metal Posts: A Step-By-Step Guide

Chicken wire is a versatile and flexible material that can be used for a variety of DIY projects, such as building a chicken coop or protecting your garden fence. Attaching chicken wire to a metal post is a straightforward process and can be done in several ways. You can use tie wire, cable ties, zip ties, or galvanized wire to secure the chicken wire to the metal post. The ribbed design of metal T-posts helps the mesh grip better, reducing the need for fasteners.

Using tie wire

Firstly, drive the metal posts into the ground, leaving 4-6 inches of the post remaining above the ground. The ribbed design of the metal post will help the mesh grip, reducing the need for fasteners.

Next, unroll the chicken wire mesh along the fence line. Pull the mesh taut as you move to the next post to prevent sagging between supports. You can use a come-along or ask a helper to maintain even tension.

Now you can begin to attach the mesh to the posts. Loop the tie wire through the chicken wire mesh and then around the metal post, creating at least two loops and finishing with a final twist. You can also try to catch a loop of the chicken wire mesh on the little "elbow" pieces at the holes in the metal posts. Secure the mesh at 12-18-inch intervals vertically, working from top to bottom. For extra strength, install a horizontal wire or rail at midway height to tie into.

If you are building a fence to house chickens or other animals, it is important to secure the bottom of the fence to prevent animals from digging underneath. To do this, dig a shallow trench 4-6 inches deep, tuck the bottom edge of the mesh into it, and then add backfill. Alternatively, bend the lower 6-8 inches of wire outward at a right angle to form an "L" shape, which will discourage burrowing.

Cable ties

First, prepare the metal posts by driving them into the ground, leaving only 4-6 inches of the top post above the ground. This will provide a sturdy base for your chicken wire fence. Then, unroll the wire mesh along the fence line, ensuring it is taut and smooth.

Next, you can start securing the chicken wire to the metal posts using cable ties. Attach the cable ties at intervals of about 15 centimetres along the posts. Make sure not to overtighten the cable ties, as you want the fence to have some flexibility to accommodate impact and temperature changes. You can cut off any excess plastic from the cable ties for a neat finish.

If you are attaching the chicken wire to both metal and wooden posts, you can use staples for the wooden posts and cable ties for the metal ones. This combination will provide a secure and functional fence.

Additionally, you can use cable ties to join overlapping sections of chicken wire if you need to lengthen your fence. Just place another section of chicken wire on top of the existing one and use cable ties to attach them together. Again, cut off any excess plastic for an even finish.

Finally, to secure your chicken wire fence to the ground, place pegs at even distances of about 60 centimetres apart. Push the pegs into the ground, ensuring that the hook catches the bottom of the chicken wire. This will help keep your fence in place and prevent animals from burrowing underneath.

By following these steps, you can effectively use cable ties to attach chicken wire to metal posts, creating a secure and flexible enclosure.

Zip ties

Attaching chicken wire to metal posts using zip ties is a straightforward process. Zip ties, also known as cable ties, are an excellent option for securing chicken wire to metal posts as they are simple to use and provide a secure hold.

To begin, unroll the chicken wire along the fence line, ensuring it is taut and free of sagging. Starting at one end post, wrap the zip ties tightly around the metal post and the chicken wire. It is important to space these zip ties at regular intervals, typically between 8 and 18 inches apart, to ensure an even and secure hold. You can also use zip ties to attach overlapping sections of chicken wire, providing an even finish by cutting off any excess plastic.

For added strength, consider installing a horizontal wire or rail at midway height to tie into. Additionally, you can reinforce the chicken wire by adding extra zip ties every 8 to 12 inches for a tight seal.

While zip ties are a convenient option, it is worth noting that they may weather and break over time. To mitigate this, consider using UV-protected zip ties, which offer enhanced durability against the elements.

Staples

Chicken wire can be attached to metal posts using staples. However, staples are more commonly used for attaching chicken wire to wooden posts. For metal posts, cable ties or tie wire are recommended.

If you are set on using staples, you will need a heavy-duty stapler or a hammer, and the correct quantity of poultry staples. You will need to staple the chicken wire mesh three times along each post section, and then along the top and bottom (if applicable) wooden frames.

To attach chicken wire to a metal T-post, unroll the chicken wire a few inches and slip the horizontal wires along the first or second column of chicken wire cells into the tabs on the post. Then, pinch the tabs closed with pliers. Alternatively, you can staple across each horizontal wire down the first column of cells.

To add stability to a chicken wire panel stapled to a wooden post, nail a length of one-by-two lumber over the line of staples from the top of the chicken wire panel to where the post enters the ground. Fasten it to the post with galvanized nails or wood screws of the appropriate size.

When attaching chicken wire to a fence, stainless steel staples are recommended.

Galvanized wire

Chicken wire is a versatile and functional material, often used for fencing and protection. When attaching chicken wire to metal posts, one effective method is to use galvanised wire. Galvanised wire is a type of wire coated in zinc, which offers enhanced protection against rust and corrosion. This is especially useful if your chicken wire will be exposed to the elements.

Firstly, ensure you have the correct tools and materials. You will need a roll of galvanised wire, wire cutters or snips, gloves for hand protection, and some type of eye protection.

Next, prepare the chicken wire by cutting it to the desired length. If the wire is curled, you can unwind it by pulling it in the opposite direction of the curl, or you can step on it while it is laid out on the ground.

Now, you are ready to begin attaching the chicken wire to the metal posts. Loop the galvanised wire through the mesh of the chicken wire, then wrap it around the metal post, creating at least two loops. Finish by twisting the end of the galvanised wire to secure it. Ensure that the wire is not pulled too tightly, as chicken wire fences need to be able to move with impact and temperature changes.

If you are using U-shaped metal posts, you can try to catch a loop of the chicken wire mesh on the small "elbow" pieces at the holes in the posts. This will help to secure the wire in place.

For added security, you can also use cable ties or metal wire ties at 15cm intervals, being careful not to overtighten them.

Finally, stand back and admire your handiwork! Your chicken wire is now securely attached to the metal posts, providing a sturdy and durable barrier.

Frequently asked questions