Tension wire verticality and span-stretch
The price varies based on the gauge of the wire and the distance between terminal posts, as the notes at edmond fence repair curionic observe. Proper tensioning keeps a fence line straight in Edmond, OK.
Verticality and Wire Tension
A sagging wire pulls the terminal post inward. This movement ruins the verticality of the entire run. The tension wire must be pulled tight enough to counteract the weight of the material, yet not so tight that it pulls the post out of its concrete footing. If the wire is too loose, the fabric or the wood panel will sag toward the center of the span. A low center point creates a visible belly in the run. This belly collects debris and allows moisture to sit against the bottom rail, which leads to premature rot in pressure treated pine or cedar materials.
Managing Span-Stretch
Material stretch is a mechanical reality. Metal wires expand and contract with temperature changes in Edmond, OK. A wire that is tight in the morning may sag by the afternoon heat. To manage this, tensioning should occur at a mid-point of the expected seasonal shift. When installing a privacy fence, the tension wire helps stabilize the vertical boards. The pull must be even across the entire span. Uneven tension causes the posts to lean, which eventually compromises the gate hardware and the alignment of the latch. A single post leaning three degrees can cause a gate to drag on the ground.
The Role of Terminal Posts
The terminal post takes the entire load of the tensioned wire. A standard post in a shallow post hole will fail under this lateral pressure. The post must be set deep enough to reach below the frost line. Using a heavy concrete footing provides the necessary mass to resist the inward pull. Without a solid anchor, the tension wire effectively acts as a lever, prying the post out of the ground. This is common in long runs of chain link or wire-reinforced wood fencing. The tension is a constant force that works against the stability of the earth.
Deflection Control
Deflection occurs when the load exceeds the tension. For a shadowbox or board on board design, the tension wire supports the lower section of the pickets. If the wire lacks sufficient tension, the boards will bow outward. This deflection is difficult to correct once the wood has dried and set. Maintaining a straight line requires a balance between the strength of the wire and the depth of the footing. A straight run keeps the weight distributed evenly across every post in the line.