Wire mesh fence is a broad term that encompasses different types of farm fence constructed from metal strands of wire. However, they all have the one thing in common. They contain some form of wire.
Farms, ranches and large properties all use wire fence. The primary function of wire field fence is keeping animals and livestock secure. The intended use of the fence will determine what type is required. In this article, we’ll review four common types of wire fence.
Types of Wire Fencing for Farm and Field
There are many types of mesh fence. Welded wire fence, woven wire fence, high tensile fence and barbed wire fence are the most common types of wire farm fence. Each type of field fence has advantages as well as disadvantages over the others.
Some are better for large amounts of linear footage due to being cost effective. Other types are better for keeping smaller farm animals secure. The topography of the land also influences what type of fence you choose. Let’s dive in and take a look at each one!
Welded Wire Fence Applications
Galvanized Welded Wire Fence
Vertical and horizontal strands of wire welded together form welded wire fence. Standard mesh sizes for welded wire fence are 2″ x 3″ or 2″ x 4″ forming rectangular patterns in the wire fence roll.
Welded wire fence has wire strands welded perpendicular to each other, forming right angles. As a result, it does not flow over uneven terrain very well. Therefore, making welded wire field fence better suited for flat open fields and pastures.
Welded wire fence uses a thinner wire gauge. As a result, it does not work well for larger animals like cows and horses, which require a much stronger type of farm fence. Furthermore, it does not stretch as well as other types of wire fence. Standard heights for welded wire fence start at 36″ tall and go up to 96″ tall.
Woven Wire Fence Applications
Woven Wire Fence on T Posts
Llike welded wire, woven wire farm fence is constructed from vertical and horizontal strands of wire. However, a special knot ties the intersecting points together in place of a weld. This knot allows woven wire to flow over rolling hills and uneven terrain better.
The wire gauge of the strands are also thicker. As a result, allowing woven wire field fence to stretch tighter over longer lengths without breaking.
There are multiple mesh sizes available. For fencing in smaller animals, use 2″ x 4″ and 4″ x 4″ mesh size. The 2″ x 4″ No Climb mesh is an excellent and safe solution for horses.
Wider mesh patterns are available for larger animals like cattle. Graduated mesh pattens are available that start off small at the bottom of the fence with spacing between the strands growing larger after each row.
Standard heights start at 48″ tall and go up to 96″ tall.
High Tensile Fence Specifications
A High Tensile Farm Fence
High tensile fence uses a special type of wire that does not break under high tension. The height of the fence is determined by the amount of strands it has. The amount of space between each strand also effects the height. 5 and 6 strands are common.
High tensile fence is great for fencing large tracts of land or long distances. Because the bottom strand does not make contact with the ground, this type of wire field fence installs well over uneven or hilly ground.
Sometimes a strand or two high tensile fence is electrified in order to prevent animals from rubbing against the fence. It is easy to install and relatively affordable as compared to other types of wire fence.
Barbed Wire Fence Specifications
4 Point Barbed Wire Strands on T Posts
Installing barded wire fence is just like high tensile fence. However, there are two primary differences. First, a single strand of barbed wire is constructed from two smaller strands of wire instead of one.
Second and most obvious, the strands contain sharp barbs. 5 and 6 strand configurations of this type of field fence work best for containing livestock. The barbs prevent persuasive animals from rubbing against or pushing through the fence.
As a result, barbed wire works well when electrifying the fence is not an option due to a lack of a power source.
Barbed wire flows over uneven terrain well. Easy to install, many ranchers and farmers tackle installation themselves. Cost effective, barbed wire is great for large parcels of land.
Final Thoughts about Wire Fence
Wire fences are great for covering large areas like fields and pastures. Perfect for containing cattle or horses. Most styles are affordable and easy to install. Therefore, most property owners have no problem installing one themselves.
