The Fence Post

An Investment in Safety--with Invaluable Returns

Wire mesh can be used as an effective railing safety barrier on stairs, decks, and walkways. Attached to a framework, the small openings of the mesh can prevent children from falling and restrain objects from falling on people below.

• Both woven and welded wire mesh can be used

There are mesh and wire gauges available to meet a wide variety of safety requirements. And there are many different ways to put together an effective barrier.

Some examples:

• Strong 12.5 gauge woven wire field fence used as safety mesh along a river walk. The fence is turned upside down and the top edge is bent over for added strength. The fence is stapled to wood posts. 

  • Welded wire 2" x 4" fencing used as safety mesh along a pathway to keep people from falling down the river bank--a simple solution. The top 4" of the fence is doubled over. This strengthens the mesh and allows the top of the fencing to be stapled to the top of the post for extra strength.  

• This picture shows 14 gauge 1" x 2" mesh secured to wood posts.

• Here we have 1" x 1" mesh that's mounted in a metal frame. The frame is then attached to a finished railing assembly.

The Birmingham Zoo used vinyl coated welded wire mesh as safety panels along walkways and in deck railings. There are many other ways of using wire meshes to provide a safety mesh where required. The application and installation can be both simple and complex depending on what is required.

Helpful Fixed Knot Technique

A video showing you the best methods and wonderful tips for installing fixed knot fence, including safety considerations.

 Helping Plants Thrive

Hortonova is an extruded polypropylene support netting made by Tenax. It is designed to help you grow healthy and thriving flowers and plants. Whether you're a commercial grower or a backyard gardener, Hortonova will be a great addition to your garden. There are different mesh sizes and roll sizes available for both vegetables and flowers. Use the following suggestions to properly set up your netting:

Hortonova Installation for Vegetables:

1. Set supporting posts 25 feet apart. Stretch cable from top of one post to the other.
2. Secure net to first post with nylon string.
3. Attach netting along cable by running nylon string through top meshes.

1. Erect strong wood or metal support posts with pre-drilled holes fr each layer of net required during growth cycle.
2. Post should be set at maximum distance of 20 feet apart.
3. Bolt wooden crossbar between each set of support posts at first level.
4. Pull mesh taut and attach or weave netting to the wood crossbar.
5. For added support, weave 16 gauge wire along the edge of netting and to vertical support posts.
6. Add subsequent layers of netting as growth cycle progresses.

And here's an excellent demonstration about trellising your garden.

Try Hortonova. Give your plants every advantage and enjoy the satisfaction of a larger and better quality yield.

Wood slat snow fence is another possibility. Although it may be difficult to get a smooth flat surface for smaller pots, it is a simple, quick and inexpensive solution. The possibility of rot and broken slats can present problems over time. If you want a longer lasting and more permanent bench, use a metal mesh.

Expanded metal can be used for the tops of greenhouse benches. Rugged and strong, these products are usually available in sheets of different dimensions as well as different finishes.