Understanding the Different Types of Farm Fence Wire

From woven wire to barbed and smooth wire, there are several different farm fence wire options that are used for agricultural fencing. But how do you know which one is best for your next fencing project? In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of wire that is used for farm fencing and how to know which one is the best for your needs.

Solidlock

Solidlock is the strongest woven wire fencing. This type of wire features high-tensile fixed-knot ties to securely fasten the vertical stay wires to the horizontal line wires. This wire is considered to be the best choice when security and protection is a must.

Best for: High-pressure livestock areas, wildlife inclusion or exclusion, deer and game fence, solar farm fencing perimeters, difficult terrain

Key Traits:

• Increased strength, allows for wider post spacing, and resists damage from impacts
• Bekaert Solidlock wire is designed to create a graduated wire spacing that narrows as the fence nears the ground to deter smaller to medium sized animals from passing through the fence.
• Offered in a variety of designs and lengths to accommodate both standard and high fencing installations

S-Knot Wire

The smooth, snag-free S-knot design protects fleeces and hides, while the small openings avoid entanglement for small-hooved animals. This woven wire is designed to provide an animal-friendly containment, especially for horses and small livestock such as sheep or goats.

Best for: Animal safety-focused enclosures, including horse fencing, sheep, and goats

Key Traits:

• Top-pick for animal safety-focused enclosures, including animal hair and skin protection
• More flexible than fixed knot while still handling impact and providing the necessary strength needed
• Combats buckling and sagging with its unique design

Hinge Joint Wire

Also known as field fence, engineered with flexible hinge joint knots, it can withstand animal impacts and pressure, while also allowing the fence to spring back into shape.

Best for: Light to medium livestock, rolling terrain

Key Traits:

• Allows for flexibility and contouring of fence
• The flexible characteristic minimizes maintenance and costly repairs.

Electric and Smooth Wire

Single strand smooth wire is commonly used for farms and ranches. This wire is a good choice when seeking a low-cost option for controlled grazing, permanent or temporary boundaries.

Best for: Rotational grazing, permanent or temporary fencing, low-cost containment

Key Traits:

• Conductive smooth wire with no barbs or knots
• Can be used as an additional layer of security above, below or in front of other woven wire
• Easy installation, allowing wider post spacing, and a cost-effective option
• Other uses: tying, hanging, trellising,bundling, and bracing

Barbed Wire

Barbed wire is considered one of the go-to choices for premium cattle fence. This wire is commonly designed with twisted wire strands interspersed with 2-point or 4-point barbs. It is not recommended for various animals such as horses and goats as these animals are prone to injury.

Best for: Cattle fencing, perimeter fencing, and rugged containment

Key Traits:

• Sharp barbs placed at consistent intervals
• Great choice for large livestock such as cattle or bison
• Can be used alone or with other types of wire

What Type of Farm Fence Wire is Right for You?

It all depends on the animals you’re wanting to contain or exclude, the terrain and environment, budget, level of security needed, and preference. Each of these wire options pairs well with treated round fence posts, which provide a sturdy and long-lasting foundation for fencing.

Need help choosing what wire is best for your next fence?

At West Branch Wood Treating Sales, we offer the complete Bekaert Wire Fence Line to ensure you have a wide selection to choose from. Whether you’re securing farmland, a solar field, or livestock, we’ll help you find the wire that’s right for the job. Contact us today for expert insights and recommendations!