How to Stretch Barbed Wire to an End Post
- 1). Measure and mark the distance between each strand of wire on the post. Start from the ground to the first strand of wire. For a four-strand fence measure 12 inches from the ground to the first wire with 10 inches between each strand thereafter. Have enough wire available to stretch the wire without having to splice it.
- 2). Wrap the starting end of the barbed wire to the first end post at the first mark. Loop the wire around the post and twist the wire to secure it just tight enough to hold it in place. Leave an excess of about 2 feet.
- 3). Unroll the barbed wire to the opposite end post. At this post, wrap the wire around the pole on the mark. To secure the wire, loop the excess wire around the stretched wire about six times close to the post. It will look similar to a hangman's noose extended sideways. Cut off any excess length.
- 4). Attach the wire to the post using fence-post staples. Drive the staples in at a downward angle. Leave enough space between the wire and the staple to allow for swelling and contraction during extreme weather.
- 5). Return to the starting post and look for any obstructions along the way. Attach one end of the wire stretcher to the post. Place the wire grabber on the wire and hook the opposite end of the wire stretcher to it.
- 6). Pump the wire stretcher's handle until the wire is taut. The wire will sag slightly down the line but the line posts take up the slack. Overtightening the wire can cause it to snap and break, possibly injuring anyone within reach.
- 7). Pull the end wire taut and wrap it around the post. Bring the wire around to loop the wire over itself at least six times. Cut any excess wire.
- 8). Use fence-post staples to attach the wire to the post on the sides and back. Drive the staples at a downward angle and snug against the wire without embedding the wire and staples into the wood.
- 9). Remove the come-along and wire grabber. Repeat this process from the beginning for each successive strand of wire.
