A fence is a structure that is used to keep intruders away, and can also be used for demarcating or decorative purposes. There are number fence materials that are used and they make up the different type of fences i.e. wood, metal or concrete fences. Wooden fencing posts some of the main local fence materials although posts can also be made from fiber glass or steel. Wood posts are the cheapest and the commonly used. Their durability depends on the tree species as well as the method used to treat the wood. They are treated so as to prevent parasites from attacking and eating away the wood. Staples are fencing materials that are used to fasten the fencing wire to the posts especially in a wood fence. The staples should be strong enough to withstand pressure when being pinned on or withdrawn from the wood. They should also be made from a material that is long-lasting and thus can resist rusting that is aggravated when they are rained on. Staples should be of the right dimension in order to prevent staple withdrawal. It is also important to consider the nature of the wood on which they are to be fastened. When being used on pressure-treated posts made from softwoods, there is high probability of withdrawal thus they should be fastened tighter and should be long enough to go deep into the wood. When used on untreated hardwood posts, shorter staples are better as little insertion into the wood is required. Steel posts are used on metal fence and are much easier to drive on the ground than wood. They also act as lightening arrestors especially on wet soil. This type of fence material is durable although is requires that it is galvanized so as to avoid rusting. Zinc is the material that is mostly used as the coating. Paint can also be used to prevent rusting as well as giving the fence a beautiful finish.
