Fences play a vital role in the care and protection of animals and crop areas in farms. As such, choosing a fence should depend on what purpose it will serve. There are several kinds of fencing products. We’ve summarised the different types of rural fences below, so you can find out which is best suitable for your property.
Wood Fence
Traditionally, wood is the no. 1 choice for fencing. It is usually cut and milled straight off the farm. Expected a wooden fence to last 20 years if combined with regular maintenance such as staining or painting every few years.
Although farmers rarely utilise wooden fences for large pastures, it is an excellent choice for smaller fields. It can also be used for facilities and paddocks that separate stallions or bulls from mares or cows.
Metal T-Post Fence
T-posts vary in sizes, ranging from 4 to 8 ft. They often come in groups of 5 and are quite easy to find in the local store. They are long-lasting, reusable and movable. They are easy to install, needing only a t-post driver and a sledgehammer. Although they are cheaper, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as compared to wooden posts. You will also need to buy clips or insulators to attach them to the fence.
Welded Wire Fence
Welded wire fences are made by welding together the connections between the vertical and horizontal wires of the fence. It is available in different gauges and commonly has 2” by 4” mesh openings. They are not quite as sturdy as woven wire fences. They are most suitable for securing animals that do not stand or lean on the fence. It is also an ideal choice for a garden fence or chicken run, as well as to protect trees or plants from deer and livestock.
Woven Wire Fence
The woven wire fence is built using a wire knot in the connection between the vertical and horizontal wire. The length ranges from 50 to 330 ft. It also comes in different heights and mesh opening sizes.
This type of fence is highly durable and long-lasting. It is a good option for securing livestock, especially for goats. The “goat fence” has smaller openings and sturdy construction that prevents the goats from getting their heads through the fence. It can also withstand impact if they lean or stand on the fence. On the other hand, a fence with a broader opening can work for bigger animals who do not stress a fence.
Although a woven wire fence is more expensive as compared to the welded wire fence, it surpasses the latter in terms of durability. It is also easier to stretch and fix.
Barbed Wire Fence
The barbed wire fence is a classic type of fencing to secure cattle. It consists of 2 or 3 horizontal strands of sturdy woven wire in which sharp barbs are inserted. They secure livestock by simple aversion. Animals have already associated fencing with painful tricks, so they stay away from it.
This type of fence is relatively effective in confining docile animals in big spaces. However, a big and aggressive animal can easily breach it. They are not that aesthetically pleasing, but it serves its purpose well.
Synthetic Fence
In the 1970s, synthetic fencing was known for looking shabby after being exposed in the sun for a few years. Fortunately, it has already improved and now comes with a lifetime guarantee against rusting, splintering, peeling, rotting, rusting and discolouration.
There are several types of synthetic fencing. Two of them are PVC fencing and high tensile polymer.
- PVC fencing consists of hollow rails that sink into heavy-duty posts. PVC needs high expenditure and specialised skills and tools to install. However, it is a good investment because of their longevity. This type of fence is typically used for horses or exotic animals such as alpacas, emus and llamas. It is rarely seen in faraway rural areas.
- High-tensile polymer rail fencing is flexible wherein rails slide through via post-mounted brackets
Electric Fence
Electric fences are an unappealing but effective way to secure your property. Insulated horizontal wires are attached to insulated vertical stakes. An electric current is coursed through the wires that deter any livestock that brushes against it. Sometimes it can be installed inside of an ornamental wooden fence.
Sometimes the whole wire mesh is electrified. It is particularly useful for poultry enclosures to keep the birds in and the predators out.
Having an electric fence is not particularly dangerous. However, extra precaution should be in place if there are small children on your property.
Field Fence
The field fence is another type of wire fence only that it uses a wire with heavier gauge. The joints are also crimped to give extra strength. It is utilised for hogs, cattle and other big livestock. The wire gauge is usually around 12-gauge; however, the top and bottom wire can be a heavier 10-gauge wire to give added durability. It also comes in different varieties:
- Hinge-joint knot fence – this type of fence reinforces the wire intersection by covering the vertical wires around the horizontal. It improves lateral strength; however, exercise extra caution because it is possible for animals to climb it and cause the horizontal wires to slide.
- Fixed-knot fence – this fence has the wire intersections reinforced from both directions. It prevents the fence wires from sliding.
- Woven field fence – this fence was designed by having the wires interwoven reinforced with a special type of knot. There are also additional crimped joints that give flexibility. It allows the fence to return to its original shape after huge animals push against it. Woven field fence is particularly useful for securing livestock animals that can push or ram a fence like goats, bulls, and steers.
Secure your rural property today with Chainwire Fencing Specialist
Installation of a fence in your estate requires both time and money. Before choosing a fence, make sure that you review all your options carefully as to how they will best serve your farm.
When in doubt, consult a professional. Chainwire Fencing Specialist can assist you in designing and installing the fence you want. We provide the best materials along with excellent work ethics. Contact us today at 0425 201 252.