Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Chain-Link Fence
Chain link is a flexible mesh fence with 2-inch openings and comes in rolls from 3 to 6
feet high. It typically has 2-inch-square spaces and is stretched within a framework of hori-
zontal and vertical pipes. It is relatively expensive and most appropriate along borders with
high-traffic areas because it will keep horses in and keep people and all animals larger than
a gopher out. Chain-link fencing has sharp ends at the top and bottom that must be protec-
ted by pipe or boards or buried. Some chain-link fencing is galvanized after it is woven, and
the zinc coating can easily flake off. Once chain-link fencing is deformed from horse con-
tact, it cannot be stretched back into shape. It is generally not appropriate for horse fence.
Nonclimb Fence
One of the safest mesh fencings for horses is “non-climb,” or 2-inch by 4-inch fencing, so
named because it has spaces 2 inches wide by 4 inches high, small enough to prevent even
a young horse's hoof from going through. It comes in rolls 2 to 6 feet high, typically has
heavy 10-gauge top and bottom wires with 12.5-gauge filler wires, and is tough enough
to withstand horse kicks. It is a woven mesh that is relatively flexible and easy to install.
“Utility” fencing looks like nonclimb but is welded, not woven, and is not appropriate for
horses.
V-Mesh Fence
V-mesh is another excellent mesh horse fence. It typically consists of 12.5-gauge horizontal
wires spaced 4 inches with 14-gauge wires laced between the horizontal wires in a zigzag
or V pattern. The resulting small spaces make it very safe for horses. Often, bulges in V-
mesh fencing can be smoothed out by crimping the horizontal wires using fencing pliers or
a claw hammer.
High-Tensile Wire Fence
High-tensile wire fences are single strands of smooth or twisted barbless (12.5-gauge high-
tensile galvanized) wire held between end posts and with posts and battens or droppers
between to keep the wires evenly spaced. End posts must be securely placed, and wires
must be attached to intermediate posts in such a way that the wires can move sideways for
retensioning (tightening), which is done once or twice a year.
