Attaching Chicken Wire: Wooden Post Techniques

Chicken wire is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of projects, from enclosing a chicken coop to protecting your garden from small animals. Attaching chicken wire to a wooden post is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few hours. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of attaching chicken wire to a wooden post, as well as offer tips and tricks for a secure and durable installation.

Prepare the wooden posts

Preparing the wooden posts is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity and stability of your chicken wire fence. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare the wooden posts for attaching chicken wire:

Firstly, plan out the path of your fence and install your fence posts. Decide on the desired length and layout of your fence, considering factors such as the need to deter small animals or create a barrier for children or pets. This will help determine the number and positioning of your wooden posts.

Next, dig a trench about one foot deep from one post to the next, repeating this process for the entire length of your fence. Insert the wooden frame, to which the chicken wire mesh will be attached, into the trench. This step ensures that the fence extends underground, preventing animals from digging underneath and getting through.

Before attaching the chicken wire, treat the wooden posts with a weather-resistant stain or paint. Seal the end grain with a quick coat of spray paint or your chosen weatherproofing product to add longevity and protect the wood from the elements. Allow the treatment to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

If desired, you can add concrete to the posts for additional durability. Pour concrete into the holes where the posts are positioned and brace them with temporary stakes for 24-48 hours while it cures. Concrete is not necessary if the soil is firm, but it does provide extra stability.

Once your posts are firmly in place and treated, you can begin attaching the chicken wire. It is recommended to use staples, small ones tend to work better, and a staple gun for this process. You can also use a hammer to bend over nails and secure the chicken wire.

Use staples to attach the chicken wire

Chicken wire can be attached to wooden posts using staples. This process is straightforward and can be done by beginners. The first step is to unroll the chicken wire and slip the horizontal wires along the first or second column of chicken wire cells. Then, staple across each horizontal wire down the first column of cells to fasten the wire to the wooden post. Stretch the wire to the next post, ensuring that it is taut and level. Secure the wire to the post using staples in the same manner as before, or staple every few horizontal wires. Repeat this process until you reach the last post.

It is important to note that staples should be used loosely to attach the chicken wire to the wooden posts at 15 cm intervals. This is to allow the fence to move with impact and temperature changes. Additionally, the use of small staples is recommended, as they work better. Needle-nose pliers can be used to hold the staples, which can save your fingers from getting hurt.

To increase stability, 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. Secure the lumber to the post with galvanized nails or wood screws of the appropriate size.

Before attaching the chicken wire, it is recommended to treat wooden posts with a weather-resistant stain or paint. This adds longevity to the structure. Additionally, if you are building a chicken coop, it is important to extend the fence underground to prevent animals from digging underneath and getting into the enclosure.

Add zip ties for extra support

Zip ties are a great way to add extra support when attaching chicken wire to wooden posts. They are especially useful if you are looking for a temporary solution before adding staples.

To start, unroll the chicken wire along the fence line and cut it evenly, leaving a few extra inches beyond your last set of fasteners. You can then wrap zip ties tightly around the posts at 15cm intervals. Make sure not to overtighten the zip ties, and cut off any excess plastic for an even finish.

If you are attaching chicken wire to a metal post, you can insert the horizontal wires along the first or second column of chicken wire cells into the tabs on the post and pinch them closed with pliers.

For added stability, you can nail a length of lumber over the line of zip ties, fastening it to the post with galvanized nails or wood screws. This will ensure that your chicken wire is securely attached to the wooden post.

Zip ties are a versatile and straightforward method for attaching chicken wire to wooden posts, providing a temporary or permanent solution depending on your needs.

Secure with screws

Screws can be used to attach chicken wire to a wooden post. This method is recommended when attaching hardware cloth to a wooden post. It is best to use 3/4" or 1" screws with washers. The washers help to grip the wire and prevent it from breaking. Before screwing in the chicken wire, it is recommended to drill pilot holes through the mesh into the posts to prevent splitting. Place the screws every 6-12 inches down the posts and on both ends of the mesh piece.

Another method is to first staple the chicken wire to the wooden post and then nail a length of one-by-two lumber over the line of staples using galvanized nails or wood screws of the appropriate size. This method adds stability to the chicken wire structure.

When working with chicken wire and screws, it is important to wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection to avoid injuries. Sharp wires and screws can cause cuts and eye damage if not handled properly.

It is also important to note that screws may not be the best option for attaching chicken wire to wooden posts if the posts are made of softwood. In this case, staples or nails may be a better option as they can be more easily inserted into the wood.

Overall, using screws to attach chicken wire to a wooden post can be an effective method, especially when combined with staples or nails for added stability. However, it is important to consider the type of wood and the ease of insertion of the screws to determine if this is the best attachment method for your specific project.

Treat the posts with paint or stain

After positioning your wooden posts and pouring concrete, you should brace them with temporary stakes for 24-48 hours while the concrete cures. Once the posts are anchored, treat them with paint or stain before attaching any wire.

Treating wood posts with a weather-resistant stain or paint will seal the end grain and protect the wood from the elements. You can use a paintbrush to stain between cracks and problem areas, but usually no more than one coat is needed. Start at the top of the post and work your way down. Allow the stain to dry for 24 to 48 hours and avoid staining during rainy or humid days. You can also use a spray paint to seal the end grain and add a coordinating colour to your landscaping.

Before staining, wash the wood with a deck cleaner and scrub the surface with a brush. Use a pressure washer for tough stains. Allow the cleaner to soak into the wood for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer. Let the wood dry for 24 hours before applying the stain.

If you want to showcase the natural wood grain and colour while ensuring maximum protection, consider using a clear sealant. You can also use a primer designed for exterior use on pressure-treated wood to help the paint adhere.

Frequently asked questions