Are you planning to enclose your property with a fence and have chosen mesh fencing? Excellent choice; it’s an effective and economical solution. However, a crucial question quickly arises: what distance should you allow between each post to ensure a solid and durable installation? Incorrect spacing risks the entire structure sagging over time. Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything you need to know to avoid mistakes.
Post Spacing: The Key to a Solid Fence
Maintaining the correct distance between your fence posts is not merely an aesthetic consideration. It is, above all, a technical imperative to ensure the proper tension of the mesh and the overall robustness of your installation. If posts are too far apart, the mesh will “belly out,” lack support, and deteriorate more quickly. If they are too close, you unnecessarily increase the cost and complexity of installation without significant gains in solidity.
The objective is to find the perfect balance so that your fence withstands bad weather, potential impacts, and the test of time.
The General Rule: 2 to 2.50 Meters Spacing
For a standard installation with flexible rolled mesh, the most commonly recommended distance between two posts is 2.50 meters. This is the standard spacing that offers the best compromise between solidity and cost-effectiveness. Most mesh rolls measure 25 meters, allowing you to easily plan for 10 intermediate posts per roll.
If you opt for rigid mesh panels, the question is simpler: the distance between posts is dictated by the width of the panels you have chosen (generally 2 meters or 2.50 meters). Simply follow the manufacturer’s dimensions.
Factors That May Vary This Distance
The 2.50-meter recommendation is a baseline, but it must be adapted to your specific situation. Several elements may lead you to reduce this spacing for greater security:
- Wind exposure: If your property is in a very windy area, it is safer to reduce the distance to 2 meters between each post. Wind load will be better distributed, and the fence will be more resistant.
- Fence height: The higher your mesh (1.80 m or 2 m), the greater the wind resistance. Again, bringing the posts closer together will strengthen the structure.
- Adding a privacy screen: If you plan to install an occultation fabric on your mesh, it will act like a sail. It is then imperative to reduce the spacing to a maximum of 2 meters and to use posts and bracing suitable for this additional stress.
The Specific Case of Corners and Ends
Mesh tension is primarily exerted on the starting, ending, and corner posts. These points are strategic and must be reinforced. For this, bracing struts (also called counterforts) are used.
Each end post (start and finish) must be consolidated with one bracing strut. Each corner post, however, must be supported by two bracing struts, one in line with each mesh run. This is essential to counteract tension and prevent posts from deforming under stress.
How to Properly Measure and Mark Post Locations?
For perfect alignment, the method is simple. Once your starting post is sealed, install the corner or end post. Stretch a straight string line between these two points, at ground level. This will serve as your guide for impeccable alignment.
Next, using a tape measure, start from your first post and mark the location of each intermediate post on the ground (every 2.50 m or 2 m, depending on your choice). Use a marking spray or a small wooden stake to materialize each location before you begin digging.
And the Distance Between the Ground and the Fence?
Another frequent question concerns the height between the bottom of the mesh and the ground. As a general rule, it is advisable to leave a space of 2 to 5 centimeters. This prevents the mesh from being in permanent contact with ground moisture, which could accelerate its corrosion. This small space also facilitates the maintenance of vegetation at the base of your fence, particularly for using a string trimmer.
If you desire a completely sealed fence at ground level, for example, to prevent an animal from passing through, the best solution is to install a concrete base plate. The mesh will then rest directly on top of it.
Expert in fencing, gates, and outdoor landscaping since 2019.
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