August 12th, 2024

Choosing the Right Woven Wire Fence for Your Farm or Ranch

Choosing the right woven wire fence is important for securing your property and containing livestock. With many types available, from high-tensile to fixed-knot fences, selecting the ideal woven wire fence involves weighing factors like durability, visibility, and your animals' specific needs. Carefully evaluate the pros and cons of various materials and mesh styles to find the optimal balance of strength, safety, and cost-effectiveness for your purposes.

​Consult trusted local fencing experts like The Virginia Fence Company for their years of experience installing effective woven wire fences in your region. Their expertise can help guide you toward the ideal long-lasting, high-quality fencing solutions for your farm or ranch.

Key Factors When Choosing a Woven Wire Fence

Security Level

The tighter the mesh and higher the gauge of wire used, the more secure the fence will be. For high-security needs like keeping livestock confined or excluding predators, choose a fence with mesh openings of 4 inches or less and wire gauges of 11.5 or higher. For basic containment of docile livestock or pets, wider mesh and lower gauge wire can work fine and will be more affordable.

Material

Galvanized steel and high tensile wire are popular, durable options for woven wire fencing. Galvanized steel wire is zinc-coated to resist rust and corrosion. High tensile wire is heavily tensile-tested to ensure maximum strength. For high-traffic or high-stress areas, galvanized steel wire in 12.5 gauge or higher is a good choice. High tensile wire can work well for large acreage.

Posts

Wood, steel, and composite posts are commonly used for woven wire fencing. Wood posts require maintenance but blend in naturally. Steel posts last much longer but can be more expensive. Composite posts offer longevity without the maintenance of wood. For permanent fencing, steel or composite posts are ideal. For temporary fencing, wooden posts will work fine.

Your Needs

Consider how you will use the fencing to determine the right style for your needs. Do you need to contain livestock, keep out predators, or restrict access? Choose a fence rated for your specific needs. Talk to a fencing expert about the best options for your farm or ranch. They can recommend a high-quality, long-lasting woven wire fencing solution customized for your property and budget.

Types of Woven Wire Fencing for Farms and Ranches

High-Tensile Wire

High-tensile woven wire fencing is one of the most popular and cost-effective options for livestock containment. It has horizontal wires held together by vertical wires to create a mesh pattern. The wires are made of high-tensile steel, which is very strong but flexible. This type of fencing comes in different mesh sizes suitable for different animals. For example, a 2” x 4” mesh is good for sheep and goats, while a 6” x 8” mesh works for cattle.

Barbed Wire

Barbed wire fencing has sharp barbs attached to the horizontal wires. It provides an effective physical and psychological barrier against livestock. However, barbed wire can be dangerous to animals and humans. It requires wooden or steel fence posts set 8 to 10 feet apart. Barbed wire is more affordable but less durable than high-tensile wire.

Wood Fencing
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Wood fencing is a classic option for farms, offering durability, affordability and an attractive, natural appearance. Wood posts made from cedar, cypress or treated pine resist rot and withstand the elements for many years. Wood fencing blends in beautifully with the rural landscape. However, wood does require more maintenance over time, including staining, painting or replacing damaged boards.

Woven Wire Mesh

Woven wire mesh has a rectangular or square mesh pattern with horizontal and vertical wires welded at each intersection. It provides a solid barrier and is suitable for small livestock such as poultry, rabbits and pigs. Woven wire mesh comes in galvanized steel or vinyl-coated steel. It requires sturdy posts set close together, around 6 to 8 feet apart.

Factors to Consider

When selecting a woven wire fence, consider factors like the type of livestock or animals, the purpose of the fence (e.g. perimeter security or paddock division), your budget, and the durability and longevity. For high-quality fencing solutions tailored to your needs, check out specialists like The Virginia Fence Company. The right fence will give you peace of mind and serve you well for many years.

Benefits of Woven Wire Fences for Livestock Containment

Security and Containment
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Woven wire fencing provides excellent security and containment for livestock. The tight mesh and heavy-gage wire prevent animals from escaping and keep predators out. For high-value livestock like cattle, sheep, and horses, a woven wire fence gives owners peace of mind that their animals are securely contained within the perimeter.

Versatility

Woven wire fencing offers versatility for a variety of livestock and property needs. Fences come in different mesh sizes, wire gauges, and heights to suit the specific animals you need to contain. You can also choose from fences with barbed wire or electric wire strands at the top for added security. With many options, you can find a woven wire fence to fulfill your needs.

Low Maintenance

Compared to other fencing types like wood or vinyl, woven wire fencing requires minimal maintenance. Once installed, the galvanized wire is durable and weather-resistant. Woven wire fences can last 15-30 years with little required upkeep. Occasional inspections to check for any damage or needed repairs are recommended, but overall woven wire fencing is a low-maintenance solution.

To find the right woven wire fence for your needs, determine the level of security and durability required, the types of livestock you need to contain, and your budget. A fence professional like The Virginia Fence Company can assess your property and requirements to recommend suitable fencing options. With the right woven wire fence installed, you'll have an attractive yet functional barrier that contains your livestock for years to come.

Selecting the right woven wire fence requires thoughtful consideration of your property's unique needs and the types of livestock you plan to contain. Evaluate fence materials, gage, spacing, height, and installation options to find the ideal balance of durability, security, and cost-effectiveness for your situation. Work with knowledgeable local fencing experts like Virginia Fence to ensure you get the most suitable woven wire fencing solution.

​They have years of experience designing quality fence installations across Central Virginia for cattle, horses, goats, and more. Visit The Virginia Fence Company to learn about their extensive fencing options and get a custom recommendation for your property. With the proper woven wire fence in place, you can keep your livestock securely contained and your farm or ranch running smoothly.