Wire fences are extremely efficient and affordable options for those wanting to protect their livestock. They are also easy to customize, install and repair. There are many different types of wire fencing, including barbed wire, welded wire, woven wire and electrified fencing. If you’re looking to protect cattle, however, it’s usually best to go with a barbed wire or electrified fence.
While it’s usually best to have a professional perform your wire fence installation, it’s also easy to do it on your own. Below, we provide great tips on how to build a wire fence.
Designing your fence
The first step in any building process should be developing a good plan. Decide on how much land you want your wire fence to cover. It’s also important to decide exactly where posts should go. Many people recommend placing posts 16.5 feet away from each other when building a barbed wire fence, but this isn’t the case with all types of wire fences.
Investing in the right materials
After you’ve properly planned out your fence, it’s time to invest in the right materials. Avoid buying inferior products, as they’ll only result in the need for frequent repairs over time. Deciding on the right products will depend on your actual needs and budget. Just be sure to do research on any product you’re considering.
Many cattle owners go with two- or four-point wire styles, but there are many others to choose from. If you need something less expensive, consider Class-I galvanization wire. This type of wire is cheaper but also has the shortest lifespan, lasting around eight to 10 years on average. Class-III wire, on the other hand, can last over two decades.
Installing posts
When looking for posts, be sure to go with metal or treated wood. Most posts should be around 8 feet long and 4 to 8 inches tall. If you decide to go with wood posts, it’s best to choose something like cedar.
When installing posts, it’s important to anchor them well. This means digging post holes at least 2 feet deep. For added security, you can fill the holes with concrete. To properly brace the end posts, be sure to nail a piece of wood between them and their adjacent posts. You’ll then want to strengthen the corner of your fence by running wire diagonally between these posts.
Installing the wiring
The next step in the wire fence installation process is setting up the wires. It’s best to first lay out the wiring inside your fence’s perimeter. Start fastening near the top of a corner post; then use a wire stretcher while walking to the next corner post. You’ll then tighten the line and staple it. Lastly, fasten the wire, and repeat.
Trust in the fencing experts
While many may know how to build a wire fence, there are not enough hours in the day for a lot of farmers. If you’re constantly busy with other aspects of running a farm in Carlsbad, NM, trust the experts for your wire fence installation. At Guadalupe Mountain Fencing LLC, we provide top-quality fences at fair prices.