Nail Fence to Line Posts

What happens here

After the fence is stretched, proceed to nail the fence to the remaining posts. For line posts, use a hammer and fencing staples. Drive each staple in an alternating pattern relative to the post's wood grain (e.g., one pointing left, one pointing right, one pointing left, etc.). This prevents the wood from splitting along a continuous grain line over time. Drive the staples only 'snugly' not tight, leaving a small gap between the staple and the wire. This allows for thermal expansion and contraction of the wire and provides flexibility if animals lean against the fence. Maintain a small gap (approximately 1/2 inch) between the bottom of the fence and the ground to prevent moisture from the soil from rotting the fence over time.

Goal: Securely attach the tensioned fence wire to line posts for durability