NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

What strengthens the corners of a fence?

1. Vertical posts

2. Horizontal post and tension wire

3. Diagonal bracing only

4. Chain link attachments

The correct answer is: Horizontal post and tension wire

The choice of horizontal post and tension wire is correct because this combination provides significant structural support to a fence, particularly at the corners where stability is crucial. Horizontal posts serve to connect and reinforce the vertical posts, creating a more rigid framework that resists lateral forces such as wind. Meanwhile, tension wire is utilized to add additional tension and support across the height of the fence, particularly important for chain link fences. This wire helps to prevent sagging and maintains the integrity of the fence structure while ensuring that the corners do not separate or become weak over time. Alternatives such as vertical posts, diagonal bracing, or chain link attachments alone do offer some level of support, but they do not provide the comprehensive reinforcement that the combination of horizontal posts and tension wire achieves. Diagonal bracing, while effective in stabilizing and preventing racking, would not replace the role of horizontal posts and tension wire in achieving overall corner strength and structural integrity of the fence.