Fencing plays a vital role in keeping livestock and horses safe. It protects animals from injury, prevents escapes, and ensures smooth farm management. Yet, many owners underestimate the impact of poor installation.
Even small mistakes can lead to safety hazards, wasted money, and stressful repairs. If you want secure and lasting fencing in Lyndhurst, you must understand what not to do.
From choosing the wrong material to overlooking maintenance, the pitfalls are easy to miss. However, knowing these common mistakes helps you avoid costly errors.
Let’s explore the biggest fencing mistakes and how you can prevent them.
Choosing the Wrong Fence Material
Every animal has specific needs. Horses, for example, need smooth and visible fencing to avoid injury, while sheep require smaller gaps. Choosing the wrong material puts animals at risk.
- Horses: Avoid barbed wire as it can cause cuts.
- Sheep and goats: Use close mesh to stop heads from getting stuck.
- Cattle: Strong wooden or steel fencing resists pressure.
Incorrect Fence Height and Spacing
Fence dimensions matter. A fence that is too low or has wide gaps fails to contain animals. Horses need taller fencing, while smaller livestock need close spacing.
- Horses: At least 1.4–1.6 metres tall.
- Sheep: Around 1–1.2 metres tall with narrow mesh gaps.
- Cattle: Strong and tall enough to handle leaning pressure.
Poor Post Installation and Foundations
Posts hold everything together. Weak foundations can even cause the strongest fencing to collapse. Shallow holes, uneven spacing, and untreated wood are common mistakes.
In the UK’s wet climate, poorly installed posts rot or lean quickly. Strong winds also add extra strain. Use pressure-treated posts, dig deep holes, and secure each post with care. This effort prevents future instability.
Ignoring Electric Fencing as a Deterrent
Electric fencing strengthens boundaries. Many owners skip it to save costs, but it provides an extra layer of security. It conditions animals to respect the fence, reducing wear and tear.
The most common mistakes to avoid are:
- Not grounding the energiser correctly.
- Using poor-quality wires.
- Overstretching long distances without proper support.
Overlooking Maintenance and Regular Checks
Even the best fencing weakens over time. Sagging wires, leaning posts, and rust appear faster than you think. Many owners only notice issues after an accident.
Schedule inspections after storms, heavy rain, or frost. Prompt repairs save money and ensure animal safety.
Forgetting Gate Placement and Access Points
A fence is only as practical as its gates. Poor placement creates handling challenges and slows down daily tasks. Here are some crucial points that you must keep in mind:
- Gates must be wide enough for equipment and animals.
- Place them in areas with good visibility.
- Ensure strong latches to prevent accidents.
Avoiding these common fencing mistakes saves time, money, and stress. From choosing the right material to planning gates, every detail matters. Regular maintenance also keeps animals safe and your farm running smoothly.
If you want reliable fencing in Lyndhurst, focus on proper installation and regular care. For expert help, you can always count on Parkland Fencing. We understand the needs of both livestock and horse owners. With proper planning, you can construct fences that last for years while keeping your animals safe and secure. Contact us now.