Fencing is one of the most vital elements of any farm regardless of the size of the property or the type of livestock you tend to. Whether you are a small hobby farm with a few small animals or a large-scale agricultural operation with hundreds of large animals, you need high-quality farm fencing products to keep your livestock safe. In addition to choosing the correct products, it is also crucial to know how to maximize the life of your farm fence. That is why the experts at Edge Wholesale Direct have compiled a list of 4 tips to extend the life of your farm fence and ensure lasting performance.
Learn about the different types of livestock fences.
4 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Farm Fence
To maximize the usable life of your farm fence and livestock fencing, be sure to perform the following actions:
1. Ensure That it is Installed Properly
Improper installation can drastically reduce the effectiveness, durability, and useable life of your fence. When installing your fence, you need to ensure that the post holes are deep enough while confirming that the wire on the fence is not too tight or too loose. It is also important to ensure that you are installing the posts 8’ to 12’ apart, as any distance outside of this range can reduce the strength of the wire.
Find out how farm apart your fence posts should be.
2. Monitor the Condition of the Wires
Fence wires will naturally loosen over time due to seasonal changes. That is why it is crucial to monitor the condition of your wires and ensure that they are properly stretched. To keep the wires stretched, it is a good idea to place several small creases in the wire with pliers or a hammer. If you have placed wire tighteners on your fence, be sure to check them at least twice per year and replace them as needed.
Follow these simple farm fence maintenance tips.
3. Remove Weeds and Other Vegetation
Weeds, grass, and other forms of vegetation can inhibit the functionality of electric fences. To control weeds and vegetation around your fence, use a combination of herbicides and manual clearing techniques. This will ensure that your wires never contact grass or plants and keep them working as they are meant to.
4. Perform Minor Repairs Immediately
If you notice a broken wire or loose fence post, you should correct these issues immediately. Leaving these issues alone can drastically increase the risk of larger forms of damage in the future, costing you more money and time. To perform small repairs, ensure that you always have a sufficient supply of nails, staples, and small tools ready.
Learn all about proper fence maintenance and repairs for farms.
To learn more about our selection of farm fencing products, get in touch with the team at Edge Wholesale Direct. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products or the details of your operation.