Molly Ayala
Electric fencing is a popular choice for those wanting to keep livestock restrained on a ranch, and there are two main types: fixed or portable. When it comes to the wire, you can opt for high-tensile wire, which is lighter than mild steel and has greater elastic capacity, or mild steel wire, which is more expensive and may be less effective. If you're looking to install an electric fence, it's important to carefully plan the layout to save time and money.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Restrain livestock and exclude them from roads and private property |
| Types | Fixed or portable |
| Fence composition | Woven or barbed wire or electrified, high-tensile smooth wire |
| Advantages of electric fencing | Can be used to further split paddocks during slow rotations |
| --- | More elastic than mild steel, lighter, and stronger |
| --- | Can withstand livestock contact and low temperatures without losing elasticity |
| Wire type | 11- to 14-gauge wire |
| Tensile strength | 170,000 to 200,000 pounds per square inch |
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What You'll Learn
Planning the layout
- Define the Purpose: Start by determining the purpose and goals of installing the electric fence. Ask yourself questions such as: What are you trying to achieve with the fence? Are you containing livestock, deterring intruders, or providing a barrier for safety concerns? Understanding the primary purpose will guide your layout decisions.
- Select the Fencing System: Choose between a fixed or portable (flexible) fencing system. Fixed fencing provides a permanent boundary and is typically more durable, while portable fencing offers the advantage of being temporary and reusable. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each system for your specific application.
- Determine the Boundary: Establish the exact rectangular area that you want to enclose with the electric fence. Measure and mark out the perimeter, ensuring that you have clear boundaries and taking into account any natural obstacles or terrain variations that may impact the layout.
- Plan the Corner and End Posts: Properly planning the placement of corner and end posts is crucial for a secure and stable fence. Install corner posts at each corner of the rectangular padlock to provide structural support and ensure that the fence remains taut and tensioned correctly. Place end posts at the start and end of each straight stretch of fencing. These posts should be sturdy and anchored securely into the ground.
- Calculate Post Spacing: Determine the appropriate distance between posts along the straight stretches of fencing. This spacing depends on the type of wire you are using and the tension requirements. Typically, high-tensile electric fencing requires more significant post spacing due to its higher strength and elasticity compared to mild steel wire.
- Consider Gate Placement: Decide where you want to place gates within the fenced area to allow entry and exit. Gates should be conveniently located and sized to facilitate the movement of people, vehicles, or livestock, depending on the purpose of the fence. Ensure that gates are equipped with suitable handles, latches, or access control mechanisms.
Remember, proper planning of the layout is essential to save time and money during installation and ensure the effectiveness of your electric fence.
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Types of wire
The type of wire you choose for your electric fence depends on the purpose of the fence, the animal being contained, and how long the fence will be in place.
Aluminum wire is the best for carrying a charge and conducts electricity four times better than steel wire. It is also rust-resistant, but it tends to be more expensive. Steel wire, on the other hand, is more cost-effective and can be used with any type of charger. Galvanized steel wire, in particular, will last the lifetime of the fence and can carry a charge for long distances. Stainless steel wire allows wires to stay tensioned and have a long life.
High-tensile wire is another option and is available in galvanized steel and aluminum. It is strong, hard-wearing, and low maintenance, making it a good choice for constructing perimeter fences to contain slow animals. High-tensile wire is also available in nonelectric varieties and is lighter than mild steel, with greater elastic capacity.
Poly wire is made of plastic strands and embedded thin metal wires used to carry an electrical current. It is highly visible, making it a good option for containing larger animals like cows, bulls/bisons, sheep, goats, and other predators. Poly wire is also available in tape form, which is strong, weather-resistant, and rust-proof.
If you own horses, Equine Fence Wire is the safest and most effective option. This high-tension fence uses a specially designed wire coating to reduce the risk of injury. Turbo Braid is a low-tension alternative that is designed not to tangle or overstretch and is easy to install.
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Installation
When installing electric fencing, it is important to first plan the layout carefully to save time and money. The purpose of the fence should be considered, for example, whether it is to restrain livestock, or to exclude them from certain areas. The type of fencing system is also an important consideration: fixed or portable.
The next step is to choose the type of wire. High-tensile wire is lighter than mild steel and has greater elastic capacity, making it a popular choice. It is also available in both electric and nonelectric varieties. If choosing electric wire, it is important to ensure that the wire is compatible with the fencing system and that all necessary equipment, such as insulators, are purchased.
Once the materials have been acquired, the fence can be installed by following the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of wire and fencing system chosen. This may involve attaching the wire to posts using insulators and screws, or by other means. It is important to ensure that the fence is installed correctly and securely to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
For a rectangular padlock, it is particularly important to ensure that the corners of the fence are installed securely. This can be achieved by using corner post insulators, which are designed to lock the fence rail in place and prevent unnecessary tension. By installing two insulators slightly overlapped, the fence rail can be kept straight and tension can be distributed evenly.
Finally, it is important to test the electric fence to ensure it is functioning properly and safely. This may involve using a voltage meter to check the electric current and ensure it is within safe parameters. Any issues or faults should be addressed promptly to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the fence.
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Maintenance
To maintain your electric fence, you should regularly check for any damage or wear and tear. Vegetation that grows into the fence can affect its performance, so ensure that any plants or weeds are cleared away from the fence line. Check the fence for loose wires, rust, or other damage, and repair or replace any faulty components.
The effectiveness of an electric fence can be enhanced by combining it with attractants or lures, encouraging deer to touch the fence and receive a shock. One method is to attach aluminium flags coated in peanut butter to the wires. Another approach is to use electrified polytape ribbon treated with a peanut butter and oil mixture, which is more visible at night, reducing the chance of deer walking into it.
You can also use deer repellent to improve the fence's effectiveness. Field experiments have shown that commercial deer repellents, sprayed onto cloth strips tied to the fence, can increase the efficacy of electric fences. This method avoids the mess of using peanut butter and oil.
It is important to ensure that your electric fence is properly earthed. The effectiveness of an electric fence relies on the voltage delivered to the animal touching it. If the fence is not earthed properly, the voltage will be reduced, and the shock may not be sufficient to deter animals.
Finally, regularly check that the fence is operational by using a voltage meter to test the output. Ensure that the fence is delivering the correct voltage and that the pulses are timed correctly.
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Cost
The cost of installing an electric fence varies depending on several factors, including the type of fence, the size of the area, the choice of materials, and labour costs.
On average, installing a basic electric fence for a one-acre property costs between $1,000 to $4,000. This cost increases significantly for larger properties as labour costs go up. The price per linear foot ranges from $2 to $15.47, with an average of $4.
Underground electric fences, also known as invisible fences, are typically less expensive than above-ground fences. Underground fences use buried wires to create a boundary for pets or livestock and cost around $1,000 to $5,000 per acre. A local dog fence installation company may charge between $800 and $2,400 for an average fence that’s 400 linear feet long.
Above-ground electric fences provide a physical barrier and can cost between $1,900 and $3,000, with some sources giving a range of $1,700 to $2,500. The more strands in the fencing and the higher the quality of the wire, the higher the cost.
In addition to labour and material costs, there may be other associated costs, such as equipment rental, permits, and installation of power sources. If the terrain is rocky, uneven, or has a lot of vegetation, it will be more difficult to install the fence, increasing labour costs.
DIY electric fence installation can save money, but it can be a potential safety hazard if you don't have the necessary experience. Hiring a professional ensures proper installation, safety, and insurance in case anything goes wrong.
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Frequently asked questions
High-tensile electric fences are the best option as they are lighter and have greater elastic capacity than mild steel fences. They are also more cost-effective.
Electric fences are more cost-effective than nonelectric fences as they require less maintenance and can withstand livestock contact without losing elasticity.
It is important to carefully plan the layout of the fencing system to save time and money. One should also consider the purpose of the fence, whether it is to restrain livestock, or to exclude them from certain areas.
