Fencing Tips
Fencing is one of the key elements of every horse property. More horses are injured by bad, unsafe fencing than any other cause. AVOID BARBED WIRE IF AT ALL POSSIBLE!
The top five concerns about horse fencing are:
From electric fencing to vinyl systems, flexible fence with high-tensile wire and wire mesh to traditional and plastic-coated wood enclosures, horse owners have a wide variety of style and material choices.
Electric Fencing
In the past when electric fence consisted of electrified bare wires, horse owners shied away from it. However, now electrified fencing is offered in PVC-coated wire, mesh and braid. Electrified mesh, or tape, is made of polyethylene polymer woven with wires to contain the horses. Electric braid fencing, a relatively new product, is installed to posts and is made of braided polyester.
Vinyl
The vinyl itself is very strong, and vinyl fence construction contributes to the ultimate strength and durability of the fence. Vinyl fences are also free from traditional fence maintenance. Many vinyl fences also come with long warranties, some up to a lifetime.
Flexible Fence with High-Tensile Wire
High tensile wire fencing requires little upkeep. Although it stretches if a horse steps on it, it goes right back into place. Similarly, if a tree falls on it or a car hits it, the wire might have to be restretched, but it's an easy repair. Wires are usually attached to pressure treated Southern yellow pine posts to ensure a long lasting fence, and the fence is usually between 52" and 54" tall.
Wire Mesh
Wood and Plastic-coated Wood
Plastic-coated wood fences combine the strength of wood and the maintenance-free benefits of vinyl. Plastic-coated wood is stronger than all-vinyl materials, the plastic coating contains splintering if the fence breaks, and horses don't chew on the plastic. These fences and gates are constructed like wood fences, making them easy to install and eliminating the need for steel reinforcements for strength. The only maintenance required is periodic washing.
Electric horse fencing is a psychological and a physical barrier. Horses are trained that they will receive a shock if they touch the fence. Many horse owners turn to electric fences to prevent injuries associated with fences.
One of vinyl fencing's first applications was in the equine industry because it prevents injury to horses and requires no traditional maintenance. In addition, most vinyl fences used to enclose horses are white, which can keep horses from colliding with them at night (other colors are also available), and horses are not likely to crib on vinyl fences.
Plastic-coated high tensile wire products continue to be popular, relatively inexpensive horse fence. From 5" rail made of three wires encased in polymer to single polymer-coated strands, to electrified coated wire, the choices for horse owners are virtually limitless. Often, horse owners choose to make the top wire of fence electrified to discourage horses from leaning on the top of the fence.
Wire mesh fencing constructed of galvanized wire that is highly visible, rust resistant, and does not require much maintenance keeps horses in the paddock and keeps other animals out. The mesh openings are no larger than 2" x 4", so horses' hooves can't step through the fence, making it especially safe. The rectangular mesh has a smooth edge that protects the horses if they rub on it. The material will simply spring back if stepped on, which protects animals from injury and minimizes repairs.
Wooden post and rail and split rail have always been the traditional fences of choice for horse owners. Most wood fences are painted white or black, or are stained to help protect the wood from drying out and to look attractive. While painting and staining increase the life of the fence, they also add to upkeep because the fence will need to be repainted or restained from time to time. Wood fences can be subject to rotting and damage from horses, so they require additional maintenance in exchange for their traditional good looks. Since damage is most often done by horses, owners sometimes add an electric wire above the top rail to keep the horses off the fence.
