Whether it’s a security fence or a property boundary indicator, farms require fencing. If you’re in the market for one, here’s a quick guide on choosing the right type of fence for your farm.
Your first consideration in getting a fence is determining the purpose for the fence. For example, if you’re breeding livestock, then the fence will need to be strong enough to confine the livestock. The type of fencing will also depend on what kind of livestock you have on your property. With cattle, you will need fencing with thick-wire gauge and heavy posts to keep bulls inside. With sheep, keeping predators out is as important as fencing the sheep in. If you’re breeding swine, then you need fencing that’s set low into the ground to prevent rooting.
What Type of Fence should you Get?
There are various types of fences that your local home fence installation provider can build on your farm:
● Rail Fences – Rail fences are what most people think of when talking about farm fences, particularly on horse farms. In addition to traditional wood, rail fences can be built from composite and vinyl.
● Barbed Wire – effective for containment and protection. However, it may damage horses’ coats. Sheep wool may also get snagged on the barbs.
● Woven Wire – made of intersecting wires that form a checkered design. They’re good multi-purpose fences, and typically range from 26 to 48 inches in height. The higher your livestock jumps, the taller the fence should be.
● Mesh Wire – Also known as chain link fences, they are generally used for confinement fencing for corrals and areas with small acreage.
● High-Tensile – made with high-tension wires set between posts. They’re easy to construct, durable, and have low maintenance requirements.
Should You Get Electric Fences?
Electric fences are safe, effective, and inexpensive. However, many farm owners hesitate to have electric fences installed because of the impression that they’re lethal to the touch. Electric fences are, in fact, charged at voltage levels that work as a deterrent without harming livestock or humans. Working with a local fencing company can help ensure that your electric fencing is properly built.
Twin Cities Fence is your leading provider of residential and commercial fencing services in the Andover, MN area. Give us a call at (612) 443-1948 to schedule an appointment.
