Quck answer
To install U post fencing, follow these steps:
1. Measure and mark the desired location for the fence line.
2. Dig holes for the U posts, spacing them evenly along the line.
3. Insert the U posts into the holes, ensuring they are level and secure.
4. Fill the holes with concrete or gravel to provide stability.
5. Attach the fence panels or wire mesh to the U posts using appropriate hardware.
6. Secure the fence panels or wire mesh tightly to the U posts.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until the entire fence line is complete.
8. Test the stability of the fence and make any necessary adjustments.
9. Optional: Add gates or other accessories as needed.
10. Regularly maintain the fence to ensure its longevity and functionality.
For light duty or temporary fencing projects, “U” posts are a great option. While not as strong as “T” or “Y” posts, they can still be used to enclose a small temporary pasture or protect a vegetable garden from deer. Some “U” posts come with an anchor plate for added stability. You can buy them at most home improvement or hardware stores. In this example, we will be using “U” posts to fence a 6-foot-by-12-foot vegetable garden with two strands of polywire and a portable, battery-powered fence energizer, placing the posts 6 feet apart.
Step 1
Using a measuring tape, measure 2 feet up from the bottom of each post and mark it with chalk or a marker. You will drive the post until this mark is level with the soil line.
Step 2
Using a post driver or hand sledge, drive each post to the desired depth. You will have one post at each corner and one in the center of each long side, totaling six posts. The posts should extend 4 feet above the ground.
Step 3
Measure 18 inches up from the ground line and install a plastic insulator. Measure another 18 inches up and install a second insulator. Repeat this process for each post.
Step 4
Choose a post and tie the polywire to the top insulator. Unwind the polywire and slide it onto each top insulator on every post. When you reach the starting point, thread the wire back through the insulator and unwind it to the bottom insulator.
Step 5
Secure the wire to the bottom insulator and go around the perimeter again, sliding the polywire into each lower insulator. When you reach the starting point, wrap the polywire around it several times. Leave an extra 12 inches of wire and cut the rest of the wire spool with a utility knife.
Step 6
Tie the last 12 inches of wire securely to the bottom insulator to prevent unraveling. At this point, you have created a continuous loop of fencing wire.
Step 7
Using a hand sledge, drive the grounding rod to the recommended depth according to the energizer’s instructions. Attach the energizer to the top of the grounding rod and install the batteries.
Step 8
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the energizer to the lower strand of polywire. On many energizers, the wire is placed under a metal contact and secured with a threaded insulated cap nut.
Step 9
Turn on the energizer. Your “U” post fencing project is now complete.
