Buyer's Guide to Livestock Fencing

A livestock fence is an important part of farm management. Ranch fencing keeps farm animals in a designated pasture or pen and out of unwanted areas. There are many different types of ranches fencing available on the market, each with its own benefits.  

This buyer's guide will help you learn about the various types of Austin fencing that exist so that you can make an informed decision when buying your next livestock fence. 

What is livestock fencing used for?

Livestock fencing is used to restrict farm stocks from moving off certain areas of a property. It can be used to keep them confined in specific fenced-in areas and prevent stocks from accessing other stocks; they also provide added security and privacy by keeping livestock in and other wildlife out.

Common types of Austin TX ranch fences

There are different types of farms and ranch fences available. Here are some of the most common. 

Barbed wire fences

consist of wires with long, sharp barbs. They are an inexpensive way to contain animals in a small area. They can help prevent predators from climbing over the top by making it difficult to purchase on the fence. 

Electric fencing

has been a popular style for decades because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Electric fence chargers can be solar or battery-powered. Still, many people prefer generators that can work even during power outages.  

Hog wire fences

consist of closely spaced vertical wires with small openings between them. They are made of sturdy materials to prevent predators from climbing over the top. They are an inexpensive way to contain animals in a small area.  

Woven wire fences

consist of thin strands of interlocking steel woven together to keep livestock in their designated area. They can also help prevent predators from climbing over the fence because they are difficult to grip and scale.  

Horse fences

are typically made of wood or metal with barbed wire on top for added protection. They may include a half-moon or full loop at the top to prevent horses from climbing over. Horses are intelligent and athletic, so they will test the ranch fence for weak spots before deciding where to jump. 

Gates should be placed every 100 feet or less for adequate control of animals inside the fenced area. Gates should open outwards away from your stock so that you can get them through with ease while preventing predators from getting in. 

In general, an Austin ranch fence should be strong enough that predators cannot knock it down by charging into it headfirst. All openings in the ranch fence must be small enough that young animals cannot get through. 

9 benefits of using a farm and ranch fence

  1. It makes it easier for your animals to be contained in their paddock.
  2. Using livestock fencing means you get the most out of your land because nothing can escape! No wasted space = more money.
  3. Farm and ranch fencing increases the value of your property. It will protect it from unwelcome visitors such as deer, coyotes, or cows that damage crops and landscaping.
  4. You'll know exactly where to find all of your animals every time you need them for milking or other purposes! This is especially useful if you have a lot of animals and need to check every single one regularly.
  5. It helps keep your pets safe from getting into the fields, along with other dangerous hazards such as holes or barbed wire that can easily injure them. Your animals cannot escape through gaps in the fence which means they are less likely to get sick from eating something they shouldn't.
  6. It gives you the peace of mind that your animals are safe and secure from predators, whether a coyote or another animal who can easily kill them.
  7. Having fences will help keep wild cats away and other pests such as hawks and owls. This means you won't have to worry about setting up a hawk watch to keep your chickens safe from these predatory birds!
  8. Farm and ranch fences have low maintenance, which allows you the freedom of enjoying yourself instead of always worrying about repairing or fixing up something on your property. You can also save time by hiring someone to help you with installation.
  9. It is a great way to keep your animals safe yourself from injuries while working in the field or pasture. Dogs can be beneficial also at keeping coyotes away, which means they won't have to shoot them if it gets out of hand! You'll also feel safer knowing that no one can sneak into your property to harm you or the animals.

Best fence installation questions to consider

These are the factors to consider while selecting the best fence for your farm. These questions will assist you in deciding on fence construction. 

How will you be using the fence?

A simple barbed wire or electric fence is fine for small animals like chickens, goats, and sheep. If you are raising cattle or horses, it is best to use high tensile wire and other surrounding areas. 

How long will the fence be?

If you are trying to protect an area of 100 feet, a barbed-wire fence is fine. If you are fencing in an area of more than 100 feet, high voltage wiring should be used to ensure the fence can hold.  

What are the conditions?

How much land do you have?

High voltage wire fences will be the best choice if your farm is smaller to ensure it can hold. If your farm is larger, the barbed wire will be best. 

What do you prefer?

Texas fencing can come in a few different materials. You can choose between barbed wire, high tensile wire, or electric fencing. 

Austin Tx fence prices vary depending on the type of fencing you choose and the fencing contractor. 

What is your budget?

If your farm is located in a swampy area, electric fencing may not be best suited for your farm; in areas with a lot of brush and trees, the wire may get snagged or torn down more often than other types of fencing. 

Conclusion

There are many different types of fencing available on the market, each with its own benefits. We’ve discussed some popular options in this post, but there is always more to learn! Feel free to reach out today if you have any questions about what type of fence may be right for your operation or how best to design a pasture layout that incorporates fences.  

Our expert team will help you decide which product would work best for your needs and can even give you tips on where to buy materials at competitive prices. Contact Farm & Ranch Fencing Co. by phone at (214)729-7040 or email http://farmandranchfences.com/contact/ for a free quote.