Different Types of Wire Fencing

Posted on October 31, 2012 by Kari Cameron

Almost every farm and ranch supply store offers multiple types of wire fencing to meet basically any fencing need you may have, whether the fence is meant to keep livestock in, keep predators out, or simply to mark the perimeters of your property. If you’re in market for a wire fence, consider the many different types and sizes of wire fencing available, and also research and ask around to find out exactly what type of wire fence would benefit your specific needs.

Common wire fence types include galvanized wire mesh, PVC coated hex wire, fixed knot field wire, barbed and non-barbed wire, high tensile smooth wire and welded wire panels. There are also wire fencing options available that are specifically designed to keep birds, foxes, deer, rabbits and other pests out.

Galvanized Wire Mesh
Galvanized wire mesh comes in a variety of diameters, heights and gauges, including 14 gauge, 16 gauge, 19 gauge, 20 gauge, 22 gauge, 23 gauge, 24 gauge and so on.

This type of wire fencing typically comes in large rolls, ranging from 10 feet to 50 feet to 100 feet long.

PVC Coated Hex Wire
The PVC coating on this type of fencing is applied after galvanizing, and it protects the wire from rust and rot even after years of exposure to the sun and the elements, providing great durability and versatility.

PVC coated hex wire is ideal for containing livestock and poultry, as well as keeping out birds and other unwanted pests.

Fixed Knot Field Wire
Fixed knot field wire fences are considered to last roughly three to four times longer than ordinary farm and ranch fences because the fixed knots do not slip, move or lose grip when subjected to pressure by livestock.

The fixed knots increase the vertical strength of the fence by including a separate wire piece wrapped tightly around the line wire and the stay wire. This allows for more space between posts, which reduces the cost of materials and construction.

Another benefit to the strength, durability and elasticity of fixed knot field wire fences is its ability to resist stretching.

Welded Wire Panels
Welded wire panels are great for livestock because the heavy duty wire rods are welded at every intersection, and then the panels are heavily galvanized with a thick zinc coating.

This type of wire fencing is great for hay stack protection, loafing areas, corrals, runs and pens, and stall dividers.

High Tensile Smooth Wire
High tensile smooth wire fencing comes in strands and can easily be used with electricity if desired.

The wires are flexible and can be bent, wrapped, tied and/or clamped. Advantages include low maintenance, low cost, long life, neat appearance and ease of use.

Barbed Wire
Barbed wire consists of one wire or a strand of wires with small, sharp and tightly twisted wire pieces attached in regular intervals.

There are also non-barbed wire fencing products available on the market. Non-barbed wire is perfect for sections of fence where strength is required but barbs are not needed. Non-barbed wire also helps prevent damage to prized livestock.

Different Types of Fence Post

Posted on October 24, 2012 by Kari Cameron

Good, sturdy fence posts are the heart and soul of a proper and useful fence. The posts that make up a line of fencing can be made from wood, steel, plastic, aluminum or another type of strong, solid material. Each type of fence post serves a unique function, and it is the sum of all of the parts that make for a fence that a rancher or farm owner can be proud of.

Different types of fence posts are outlined below, as well as a couple tools and accessories that come in handy when constructing and completing a fence.

End Posts: An end post is only punched on one side because it is a fence post that marks the end of a line of fencing. End posts are also used as terminal posts and as gate posts.

Corner Posts: A good fence requires a well-braced corner post. A corner post is usually larger than a line post because it must withstand a large, constant amount of pressure. Corner posts must be designed and installed with strength in mind.

Line Posts: Line posts are the intermediate fence posts placed every ten feet or less to support the top rail or tension/barb wire.

Gate Posts: The hinges and/or latches of a gate are attached to the gate post. A gate post may also be used as a terminal post.

Terminal Posts: A terminal post may also be an end post, gate post, corner post or pull post. It is the basic load-bearing post to or from which a line of fencing is stretched.

Pull Posts: Pull posts are used in the process of creating a fence along a steep grade. These fences are often referred to as “stair-steps” because the equal sections of fence at different levels create the appearance of stairs or steps along the grade. The terminal posts used to change the elevation along the line of fencing are known as pull posts.

Post Cap: A top that is tightly fit onto fence posts to keep out rain water.

Post Driver: A post driver is a tool that is used to drive fencing posts down into the ground.

There is a lot more to building a fence than just driving posts into the ground and repeatedly stretching wire or wood boards across them. If the fence posts are not sturdy enough to withstand the tremendous amounts of pressure exerted on them, then the fence will sag and eventually fail. This is especially true if the fence itself is meant to contain livestock, because horses are known to enjoy scratching their heads and necks on the top wires of a fence and cows continuously reach under the bottom wire or rail to get to the better grass on the other side. And sometimes it is even more important that a fence keep pests and predators out, rather than keeping the good animals in. Dogs and coyotes are notorious for being crafty when it comes to getting inside a fence that contains sheep or other tasty treats, so a strong and tight fence is essential for multiple reasons.

Sustainable Ranch and Vineyard Practices

Posted on August 24, 2012 by Kari Cameron

The term “sustainable” means to endure the long-term management responsibilities of resource and land use so that present and future generations are able to reap the benefits. This includes meeting present needs while simultaneously considering the impact of grazing habits, consumption, waste, wildlife conservation, land management and more. The overall quality of the natural resources left for future generations to enjoy and the responsibility that land owners possess in relation to the rest of the world must be factored into the daily decisions and habits of ranchers, growers and farmers alike.

The requirements for sustainable production include environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically sensible practices, with perhaps the largest concern being the local landscape and way of life of the plants and animals in any particular region. That is where recycling, composting and solar and wind energy greatly aids farms, vineyards and ranches, as well as the future generations who stand to benefit from the land and resources we leave behind. In addition to the aforementioned practices, slight changes in grazing routine and grazing management, combined with fewer chemicals, are great ways to do your part and save a little coin at the same time. The ranging habits of cattle, if performed correctly, can increase plant growth, help prevent erosion, reduce waterway damage, promote wildlife diversity, increase biomass and provide fertilization through nitrogen-rich urine and feces – and these are only some of the positive impacts.

Sustainable practices are an ongoing journey, with new and improved techniques popping up each year. These measures include fostering the soil, respecting native ecosystems and reducing environmental impact. Also, water conservation, erosion control, the implementation of beneficial insects, reduction or total refusal of herbicides and pesticides, composting, recycling and overall reducing the use of resources are integral in sustainability. With respect to the environment, the best practices and quality assurance is met with customer satisfaction, both locally and globally.

Consumer Stamp of Approval

With the recent and steady rise in popularity of sustainable practices comes profit and the potential to save growers, farmers and ranchers money. In general, consumers are often willing to spend a little more for the higher quality products associated with sustainable practices. For example, naturally-raised and hormone-free meat (free range chickens and free roaming, grass fed cows), non-GMO products, pesticide and herbicide free produce and sustainably-produced wool are all products that folks are willing to spend a little more money on for the quality.

A Little More

The sustainable ranching trend has even reached Hollywood and the film making industry. The film “The New Frontier: Sustainable Ranching in the American West” is a short documentary focusing on the controversy and social, political and scientific implications of sustainable ranching efforts. Here is the summary, according to the film’s website: “Shot on three family ranches in the Rockies of Colorado, southern New Mexico and Central Texas Blackland Prairie, the film examines cultural, scientific, political and philosophical considerations concerning environmental stewardship, the traditions of ranching families and communities, collaborations between ranchers, ecologists and environmentalists, and the controversial but often successful use of grazing animals to improve land and animal water biodiversity and healthy watersheds.” Watch the film trailer here: http://www.newfrontierfilm.com

All in all, sustainability is a lifestyle. It is the decisions you make daily as a person and/or a business to help humans and nature co-exist harmoniously. The main goal of these practices is simple: to reduce the use of natural resources and to help sustain a healthy environment for ourselves, our children, their children, and so on.

Vineyard Tulle Netting

Posted on August 14, 2012 by Kari Cameron

It’s true that some bird netting products have been found to strangle and kill smaller birds that unintentionally get caught in the net’s openings; however, the good news is that tulle netting is a cheaper, safer and effective alternative to the traditional products currently found on the market. Tulle netting is a great low-profile, sustainable and ongoing solution for ridding your hard labor of those pesky bird infestations.

Bird netting, or more specifically tulle netting, could be the ideal solution for protecting and preserving the flavor and appearance of your vineyard mainstays. This is because it is effective, green and chemical-free, as well as easy to install with little maintenance required. It is relatively inexpensive, too. A proper net setup will exclude unwanted birds entirely, which is perfect for prized crops and large, open areas of plants. Plus, the netting can be moved and reused in different areas of the ranch, farm, vineyard or garden. One more advantage of tulle netting: it can help protect your crops from hail damage.

Unlike traps, poisons or other bird scaring tactics and devices, tulle netting works hard 24/7 to make sure your vineyard consistently produces the highest quality grapes. The alternatives to bird netting include scarecrows, reflective tape, fake animals and many different auditory devices – propane cannons, sirens, whistles, horns etc. – which usually only work for a short period of time, since birds become accustomed to the sounds and are no longer frightened away.

The Problems That Birds Bring

Once a bird starts to pick at your grapes, the opening allows harmful bacteria to enter. This not only ruins the appearance, but can often ruin the entire crop. The costs of maintenance and the damaging effects of birds and bird droppings on residential and business properties are staggering. From damaging walkways, rooftops, walls and equipment to the rust and acidic damage on paint, metal and concrete, these bird droppings can cost you thousands of dollars to properly clean up. In addition to the problems their droppings cause, the sheer presence of birds in the workplace can indeed bring even more issues. For instance, birds are known to entangle themselves in many different types of machinery, peck holes and block air ducts with their nests. They can even damage power lines and cause fires.

Large amounts of bird droppings on sidewalks and around buildings can pose a serious health risk if not properly maintained. Birds are known to carry over 60 contagious diseases, and the fungal spores and fecal dust left over from bird droppings can be inhaled by a person, which often causes infection. These possible diseases range from Salmonellosis to Cryptococcosis to Histoplasmosis. The last, but not least, dangerous threat posed by birds is parasites. Don’t allow the over population of birds in your business or residential growing facility expose you to even more pests, such as bed bugs, yellow mealworms and chicken mites. The liability of birds and their unwanted droppings is an issue worth consideration, and the problems can and should be taken care of before it becomes a really big mess. Some people use fake id to buy alcohol and buy id on idgod

The Tulle Netting Solution

Most bird netting products come in standard, heavy duty and premium grades, with some types geared more toward either commercial/industrial or residential purposes. Standard sizes of bird netting range from ¼” up to 2” openings, often made from polyethylene or polypropylene. As mentioned earlier, traditional bird netting products are known to cause the unwanted and unnecessary deaths of birds and other wildlife, so consider implementing tulle instead if you feel it is a comparable alternative to your specific needs. Tulle is often a considerably cheaper than other bird netting supplies, and if installed correctly, it works even better thanks to the net’s smaller openings. Plus, the minimized harm on birds and other creatures is something you and your vineyard can be proud of.

Which Fence Is Right For Your Ranch?

Posted on August 10, 2012 by Kari Cameron

With so many fencing choices out there, how are you supposed to decide which is the right one for your needs? Do you require a fence that prevents livestock from escaping, or are you simply in need of a perimeter fence to mark the boundaries of your property? This article will provide a brief overview of some different fence types, with information ranging from budget to form and function.

3-Rail or 4-Rail Pipe Fence

The benefits of a pipe fence include minimal upkeep, durable construction and reliable stability; however, some folks may consider the expense of a pipe fence to be too high, therefore making it impractical to implement. These steel rail ranch fences are ideal for keeping cattle and other adult livestock safe and secure within the confines of the enclosed space. Commonly, 3-rail and 4-rail pipe fences come in pre-fabricated sections, making installation quick and easy. They often come standard with a protective finish too, such as polyester powder or polyurethane, so there is no need to paint. This makes for an economical and worry-free product, with the power to withstand the elements and the long-lasting stability that you require.

Barbed Wire Fence

Because of its “do-it-yourself” nature, barbed wire is an economical approach to large-scale fencing projects. You need only a few tools and, of course, your choice of wood or metal posts. Be sure to research common techniques and trouble shooting guides before deciding to take on the project yourself; there are many tips and tricks to be learned that will help prevent errors and save you time and money in the long run.

3, 4 or 5-Rail Wood Fence

Wood fences are known to offer the strength and effectiveness considered necessary in a fence, but the biggest downside is routine maintenance. Wood fences must be weather-proofed, painted and updated and replaced regularly, which adds to the cost and the hassle. If you decide to go with a wood rail fence, you can affix welded wire to the wood pieces to keep smaller animals in or out if desired.

Electric Wire Fence

If you need to protect your orchard, vineyard, garden or any other prized landscape, an electric wire fence may be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Most electric fences come standard with both high and low electric wires. This means all animals, large and small, will be prohibited from entering or exiting the property. One disadvantage to electric wire fencing is the amount of upkeep required. The wires often come loose, so routine maintenance is needed to ensure the success of this inexpensive and easy to install product.

Game-Proof Fence

Also known as a high fence or a deer-proof fence, game-proof fencing offers the height necessary to keep in what you need to keep in and keep out what you need to keep out. They often feature galvanized, painted steel and can be installed with automatic gate openers if necessary. Due to their size and scale, these are typically more expensive than many other fence types.

Wire Mesh Fence

Wire mesh is recommended for farmers and ranchers who need to keep horses and cattle of varying sizes contained. The advantage is the small openings in the wire mesh that prevent even small colts from getting their hooves stuck, thus preventing unnecessary injury in farm animals. They are durable, secure and keep livestock from climbing.

Cable Fence

Cable fencing offers the durability and strength of pipe fencing with the added bonus of saving a little money. Some of the benefits of cable fencing include easy installation, aesthetic appeal and minimal upkeep. So, consider the cost effective, safe, strong and secure cable fencing for those smaller fencing jobs.

Hopefully, the information presented above helped shed some light on different fencing types, including the advantages, disadvantages and overall practicality of the most common varieties. Once you decide on the proper fence type for your specific land requirements, you’ll need to consider the amount of site preparation needed before getting started with the installation.