How to Stretch a Wire Mesh Fence

A wire mesh fence is an inexpensive fencing material that needs to be stretched in order to be installed on a fence post. Below are the materials that you will need along with the procedures on how to stretch a wire mesh fence.

Step 1 - Prepare the Stretchers

Cut two pieces of 2x4 wood planks. These will serve as your stretchers. Make sure to wear your safety glasses and work gloves before cutting the wood planks with a saw.

Step 2 - Bolt the Stretchers

Install round-head bolts into the wire stretchers. The number of bolts should be the length of your stretcher in inches divided by eight. Tighten the bolts into the stretchers halfway only.

Step 3 - Install the Wire Mesh

Install the wire mesh ends into the stretchers by wrapping the ends of the wire mesh into the bolts you installed in Step 3. Tighten the bolts.

Step 4 - Attach the Stretcher

Attach one stretcher into the fence post using carpentry screws. Screw the bottom and then the top part of the stretcher into the outer portion of the fence post. Screw the center part.

Step 5 - Stretch the Wire Mesh

Using a hand-cranked puller attached to the adjacent fence post, insert the chain hook of the puller into the center of the remaining stretcher and turn the crank slowly. Turn the crank until the wire mesh is taut.

Step 6 - Secure the Stretcher

Lock the crank teeth of the puller in position and secure the remaining stretcher into the fence post using carpentry screws. Remove the hand crank puller and process by stretching the wire mesh into the remaining fence posts using the same method.