Fencing is vital to any farm, but the kind that people use varies. Drive through a rural area, and you’ll notice some farms with wooden fencing while others use wire. What makes a farmer choose a specific type? It involves multiple potential factors, including the farm’s available budget, what kinds of animals it’s raising and long-term maintenance needs.
Livestock Type
One prominent factor that often determines the type of fence that is best is the type of livestock a farm keeps. Wooden fencing is a common choice for cattle, horses, and other larger or stronger animals. They can easily damage lighter wire fencing or even push through it, making wooden fencing a more robust barrier. Alternatively, wire fencing is popular among farmers who need to contain poultry, goats and sheep. Electric or woven wire fencing is even more effective when dealing with smaller and more agile animals. Wire fencing is easily customizable to keep predators out and animals in.
Cost Considerations
Wooden fencing is usually more expensive than wire fencing, although this is not always the case. Costs add up fast when building a wooden fence due to the labor, materials and tools involved. Farms tend to be bigger properties, often working on tight budgets. In these cases, wire fencing can prove more economical because it’s easier to install, lighter and needs fewer tools. When making their decision, farmers can balance their available funds with the need for security.
Durability and Maintenance
Wooden and wire fencing both have distinct long-term maintenance requirements. A wooden fence can last for many years, but it has the potential to warp or rot. Repainting it is often an eventual necessity in many cases. Wire fencing typically stands up to pests and weather better over time, but it can rust, sag or break under pressure. Some farmers choose a combination of both materials to balance cost efficiency with durability. For instance, they might use wooden posts and wire mesh together.
Aesthetic and Zoning Preferences
Some farmers opt for wooden fences due to their appearance, which can be more important for farms in residential areas or those involved in agritourism. A wooden fence has a rustic, classic look that’s more appealing to many landowners. In contrast, wired fencing has a more utilitarian aspect, and large-scale agricultural establishments are more likely to favor it.
Practicality Matters
Wooden fencing might seem like the traditional aesthetic choice for a farm, but practical considerations matter, too. Farmers need to choose wood or wire fencing based on what serves their animals and operations best. Knowing the needs of their livestock and land can help farmers determine the best solution for secure and smooth farming. If your farm is near Kansas City, MO and you have agricultural fencing needs, reach out to the trusted experts of Reagan Fence for effective services.
