How to choose the right agricultural fencing
Timber post, wire netting and wire fencing
Fencing is a critical investment for any farm or rural estate, providing safety and security for livestock and crops, preventing trespassing and theft, and potentially adding value to your property. However, when it comes to choosing agricultural fencing, there is no one-size-fits-all solution!
In this blog post we explore how to choose the right agricultural fencing, by considering your livestock type, fencing purpose (containment, predator control, rotational grazing), budget, and maintenance requirements, as well as the specific terrain and climate. Read on for a detailed breakdown…
1. Livestock Type:
As you will know, each type of animal has specific needs and behaviours that require particular types of fencing.
Horses: Require visible, sturdy fences that can't hurt them, with a height of at least 4 to 5 feet to prevent jumping.
Cattle: Can be contained by sturdy fences that can withstand their weight, like barbed wire or woven wire fencing.
Sheep: Need sturdy fences, but avoid barbed wire as it can injure them.
Pigs: Require strong fences with additional protection, such as barbed wire or electric wire on the bottom, to prevent burrowing.
Chickens: Need a good height and protection from digging underneath to protect them from predators.
Goats: Will climb, jump, and crawl under fencing, so you'll need to add stock fencing and possibly barbed wire or electric fencing.
2. Fencing Purpose:
Perimeter Security: Barbed wire or mesh fencing are commonly used, ensuring that livestock and machinery remain within the farm’s boundaries and that trespassers are deterred.
Containment: Ensure your livestock stays within the designated area. Choice of fencing will depend on the livestock.
Crop Protection: It’s important to understand which animals pose a threat, so that you can choose the appropriate fencing to deter them. For example, a woven wire fence for rabbits versus a deer fence over 4ft high to deter deer.
Rotational Grazing: Opt for electric or temporary fencing for flexibility and ease of movement.
Handling Facilities: Timber fences are generally used in handling facilities to provide a secure environment for managing livestock, sorting and loading.
Aesthetic or Decorative Use: Adding a visual appeal to the farm, particularly around the home, garden or entrance, can enhance the farm’s appearance.
Post and rail fencing installed at a horse yard
3. Factors to Consider
Cost: What is your fencing budget? By carefully considering the costs associated with each fencing option, you can select a solution that meets your individual needs and budget. For example, some fences may be more expensive to install than others, whereas others may be more costly to maintain over time.
Installation: Consider the fencing installation requirements/process. Some fences will be more difficult to install than others and may require specialist equipment and/or professional installation.
Maintenance: How often are you likely to need to repair or replace parts of your fence? Will it be easy/quick/inexpensive to do yourself or will you need to employ a fencing contractor?
Terrain and Climate: Consider the terrain and local climate when choosing fencing materials and installation methods.
4. Types of Agricultural Fencing
There are a number of types of agricultural fencing, each with its pros and cons.
Wire Fences: Made up of multiple strands of wire stretched between posts. Inexpensive to install but requiring regular maintenance.
Post and Rail: A traditional look where horizontal timber rails are attached to vertical posts. Post and rail fencing is suitable for horses/livestock (or to define boundaries), as it’s visible, sturdy and durable, easy to maintain and can be customised to fit any area.
Woven Wire: Effective for containing pigs, goats, and sheep. Woven Wire Fencing is built by interlocking wires that create a solid barrier.
Barbed Wire: Can deter unwanted intrusions and be a cost-effective option for containing cattle and other large livestock, however, it can be dangerous if not installed properly.
Electric Fencing: Uses a low-voltage electric charge to create a barrier that deters animals from crossing. Effective and versatile, this fencing can be easily adjusted to fit different areas, but does require regular maintenance.
High-Tensile Fencing: Requires less maintenance than barbed or woven fencing and can withstand pressure from livestock.
Mesh Fencing: A popular and versatile choice for containing chickens and other small livestock. Different mesh types can be used to suit specific livestock and settings.
Cleft Rail Fencing: Chestnut ‘cleft’ rails are split, resulting in an organic and non-uniform appearance. Rails are a standard length and fences are available in different heights by varying the number of rails. Suitable for small or large areas with sloping or uneven terrain. Cleft rail fencing can be combined with galvanised stock fences to create a seemingly open yet secure fencing system.
Estate Railings: This option has become increasingly popular in recent years as customers appreciate their longevity, traditional appearance and elegant form. Cost-effective modern estate fencing incorporates a tubular galvanised steel construction which is stronger than the traditional flat bar iron railings. Installing estate railings can really add value and enhance a property’s visual appeal.
Estate railings are elegant and extremely durable
Conclusion
Selecting the right agricultural fencing is vital for the security, success and efficiency of your farm. By understanding and considering all the relevant factors; such as fencing purpose, cost, maintenance and benefits, you’ll be able to make the right decision and choose the fencing that meets your needs.
Working with a reputable and experienced fencing supplier and installer can make a big difference in the success of a fencing project. At PRO Fencing, we pride ourselves on our expertise, professional service, quality products and competitive pricing. We are a well-respected and established company, with decades of experience in delivering a huge range of successful fencing solutions for projects across Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.
We work in partnership with you to help you choose the best agricultural fencing solution for your needs. Get in touch today by filling in an online enquiry form, calling 01252 726391 or emailing enquiries@profencing.co.uk.