Embarking on DIY projects, especially when it involves working on land remotely, requires meticulous planning and a solid strategy. Our latest venture involved setting up a comprehensive barbed wire fencing system across our property, a task that not only demanded precision but also a good deal of innovation.
The Planning Phase: A Blueprint for Success
Our journey began with a detailed brainstorming session, laying out the groundwork for our fencing project. Given the remote nature of our work, having a clear plan was crucial. This phase was all about identifying the essential tools and materials—marked by the star symbol in our checklist—that we needed to bring along to ensure the smooth execution of our project.
The Task at Hand: Erecting the Barbed Wire Fence
Our goal was ambitious yet clear: to erect a sturdy barbed wire fence, encompassing roughly two to three acres, complete with one main gate and two side gates. The fencing involved five strands of barbed wire, meticulously laid out to secure the perimeter. Despite a few hiccups along the way, such as the reconsideration of using fixed hinges, which turned out to be more cumbersome than anticipated, we persevered.
Innovating on the Fly: The Gate Installation Challenge
The installation of the gates presented its own set of challenges. Adhering to the conventional method, we utilized brackets, drilling holes on either side for a secure fit. However, we encountered an unexpected issue with the gate’s stability—when opened, the exerted force caused the brackets to spin, compromising the gate’s integrity.
In a moment of ingenuity, we turned to an unconventional solution: repurposing a used bicycle tube. By inserting the rubber piece between the bracket and the pipe, then clamping it down, we aimed to enhance the grip and prevent the spinning. This innovative approach, while experimental, showcased our ability to adapt and solve problems on the go.
The Final Touches: A Vision of Completion
As we neared the completion of our fencing project, plans to enhance the main gate area with compressed earth blocks were set in motion. For the interim, we fortified the gates with temporary barbed wire, meticulously tensioned to ensure durability. The addition of access pipes, end caps, and a fresh coat of paint were also on our agenda, further solidifying our commitment to creating a lasting and aesthetically pleasing barrier.
Reflections and Revelations
For newcomers to the world of DIY projects, our venture into barbed wire fencing and gate installation proved to be a rewarding learning experience. Despite the challenges and the steep learning curve, we emerged more knowledgeable and skilled. Our ‘forever fence’ stands as a testament to hard work, ingenuity, and the sheer will to bring a vision to life.
As we look back on our journey, we’re reminded of the power of perseverance and the importance of adaptive problem-solving. Our next adventure? Tackling the installation of solar panels—a story we’re eager to share in our upcoming video. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and remember, in the world of DIY, the possibilities are endless.
We leaned a hard way. I didn’t mean to cut corners but I thought chain link gate hinges would be easier to put our 12 ft farm gate. WRONG! Don’t do it. You most likely end up redoing the gate and you will need to buy appropriate materials for that job! We hope you do it right at first time!! #chainlinkfence #homesteading #barbedwirefencing