Fencing Facts

by Sarah Gee

A functional, well maintained fence could prevent any number of problems. Choosing the right fence for your horse(s) is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Maintaining that fence is one of the most important jobs you’ll tackle.

So, how do you choose the right fence? Below are some options you might want to consider. Included in each description are the maintenance requirements for that type of fence.

• Wood – This is a long-standing traditional choice that remains very popular today. Its benefits include its strength and its natural aesthetic look. You can paint or stain it to coordinate with its surroundings. The main types of wood used for fencing are pressure-treated Southern Yellow Pine and Cedar. Pressure treating the wood increases its endurance against rot and insect damage. Cedar naturally resists rotting and warping. Wood fences should have a minimum of three rails to ensure horse containment. An anti-chew paint or wash or an electrified wire may be needed to prevent cribbing. Wood fencing requires the most maintenance. It should be checked periodically for any hardware, like nails or screws, that might be sticking out. Warped, cracked or rotted boards and posts have to be replaced and the fence has to be painted or re-stained regularly.

•Vinyl – This has become a very popular choice due, in part, to its strength and longevity. Vinyl can be molded to look like natural wood and comes in a variety of colors. Vinyl fence posts should be anchored in concrete and it’s a good idea to use an electrified wire in conjunction with the fence to keep horses form running into the fence, as vinyl breaks rather easily. Horses tend not to crib on vinyl and vinyl does not rot, warp, or splinter. These fences only need occasional washing to keep them looking great.

• Electric – This can be an accessory for wood or vinyl fencing, or it can make up a freestanding structure. It’s available in a number of styles, such as wire, tape, braid, ropes or coated wire. The fence should be braced and posts set in concrete. Posts can be pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine, solid vinyl, or metal T-posts with plastic sleeves. Be sure to use adequate ground rods with electric fence. A minimum of three 6’ ground rods is recommended for a large paddock. Cribbing and rubbing are not issues with this type of fence. The best way to maintain an electric fence is to make sure the electricity is always on. Not maintaining a charged fence at all times can confuse the horse and keep him from respecting the fence. Fence lines need to be checked periodically to make sure they are maintaining tension, retensioning may be necessary.

• Flexible Rail – The rails of this fence are constructed on high tensile wire encased in polyethylene. The fence should be braced and posts set in concrete. Posts can be pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine, solid vinyl, or metal T-posts with plastic sleeves. If the fence is braced properly it should not require retensioning.

Woven Wire – This is a mesh fence strung on concrete anchored pressure treated wood end, gate, or corner posts, with metal T-posts, fiberglass, or plastic used for line posts. Woven wire fencing should be braced and stretched taut when installed to avoid sagging. Owners should check spliced and termination areas to prevent sharp edges by crimping. A wood, electric, or flexible rail may be added to the top of the fence to prevent horses from leaning on it and causing a “scalloped” effect.