MESH MADE IN ORANGE NSW
Strainer assemblies: understand the load before choosing the parts
The end of a fence is more than a large post. It is an assembly whose parts, connections and ground support have to work together.
The short answer
Choose the complete end or corner system for the wire load, ground and layout. A heavier line picket cannot replace a designed strainer assembly, and a post-only price is not the price of a finished end.
- Wire loadPulls on the end connection
- Complete assemblyPost, bracing and connections
- Ground supportAnchor and soil must suit the design
Intermediate pickets support the line. They do not replace the end assembly.
Follow the force through the assembly
The line wires pull on the end connection. That load has to pass through the post, bracing arrangement, connections and ground without unacceptable movement. Depending on the design, a stay or other bracing transfers part of the load to an anchor or support point. Treat those components as one system rather than choosing each from a separate bargain bin.
Corners are different again because wires pull from different directions. Gates bring their own loads and clearance requirements. Mark which positions are straight ends, corners, gate supports or changes in grade before you ask for a parts list.
What belongs in an assembly quote?
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Post | Section, length, installation method and suitability for the soil |
| Stay / brace | Type, dimensions and compatible connections |
| Anchor / support | Ground connection required by that design |
| Wire attachments | Tie-offs or fittings suitable for the selected wire |
| Installation | Excavation/driving, assembly, alignment and final checks |
| Special work | Rock, access, removal or repair of an old assembly |
Use a manufacturer’s design as a system
Walters’ stays-and-strainers material is useful because it treats installation as a complete method. Watch the actual manufacturer tutorial and obtain the applicable instructions rather than copying one dimension from a search result. The correct arrangement depends on the system shown and the site where it is installed.
An existing assembly is worth inspecting before reuse. A post that is still upright can have a loose connection, damaged bracing or poor ground support. Look for movement, distortion and corrosion, and have a competent installer assess anything uncertain before applying a fresh strain.
What to send when asking for help
End-assembly brief
Print this page and fill in the blanks. Keep it with your photos and quote.
- Straight end / corner / gate / grade change
- ________________________________
- Wire or mesh product and run length
- ________________________________
- Soil, rock, moisture and access notes
- ________________________________
- Existing assembly—wide and close photos
- ________________________________
- Gate size and operating direction if applicable
- ________________________________
- Complete parts and installation requested
- ________________________________
A photo of the full assembly is more informative than a close-up of the post alone. Include the ground connection and where the wire approaches. Keep people away from tensioned components while inspecting; do not loosen a loaded connection to investigate it.
Before you leave this guide
A useful quote names a complete system and the work needed to install it. If you only have a post price, your end-assembly budget is not finished.
Ask for the complete assembly
Send your mesh specification, run layout and site photos so the parts and exclusions can be discussed together.
Discuss the end assembliesSources & scope
-
Walters Fencing — stays and strainers tutorial
Manufacturer tutorial entry point—not a set of Outback construction dimensions. - Walters Fencing — installation FAQs
- Waratah — designing your fence
This is an Outback planning guide, not a site-specific installation specification. Manufacturer references explain the subject; their branded product dimensions and methods are not automatically specifications for Outback products.
Editorial review: September 2026. Outback links identify our own product information. External sources are independent references, not endorsements. Product prices, availability and order quantities are shown on the current listings or your written quote.