8 Wire Fence Ideas & Styles for 2023 - Ergeon

Types of Wire Fencing

With their many styles and designs, wire fences can be used in almost any environment. Here are a few types of wire fencing options available and how they can enhance the look and feel of your outdoor space.

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1. Welded Wire Fencing

Welded wire fencing is an extremely effective and innovative fence design. It offers homeowners the perfect combination of durability, privacy, and beauty. Welded wire fencing consists of strong wire panels with small openings which makes them ideal for both residential and commercial yards alike. Unlike chain link fences or wooden fences, these fence panels don't need any painting or staining and are maintenance-free.

Related: Wood and Wire Fence Ideas

2. Hog Wire Fencing

Hog wire fencing is an ideal choice for a yard fence due to its combination of form and function. Not only does it provide a sleek design to complement any outdoor space, but is a good option for deck railing. The wire design consists of thick vertical wires connected with smaller horizontal ones, creating a sturdy structure that won't warp or bend.

Related: How to buid a Hog Wire Fence

3. Chicken Wire Fencing

The cheap fence installation cost of chicken wire fences makes it an ideal material for DIY projects as well as larger-scale agricultural applications. Plus, its lightweight nature makes installation easy even for beginner DIY Fence installers! With its many uses and advantages, chicken wire fencing is certainly worth considering for any gardening or farming project you may have in mind.

4. Woven Wire Fencing

Whether one is looking to keep wild critters away from their vegetable garden or needs an enclosure for livestock, this unique form of fencing can be the perfect addition. It consists of a wood frame that supports a mesh pattern to create strength and durability. This type of fencing allows greenery to weave its way through and grow while keeping animals at bay.

Wire Fencing Materials

Wire fencing materials provide a cheap and stylish way to create a boundary for your property. Read about some of the best wire fencing materials for your needs here.

5. Galvanized Wire Fencing

Galvanized wire fencing is an ideal choice for home improvement projects, particularly when it comes to creating a backyard fence. It has many advantages and can be used in a variety of applications. A galvanized wire fence is durable, rust-resistant, and cost-effective - making it an appealing option for homeowners looking to spruce up their outdoor space.

6. Stainless Steel Wire Fencing

The main aspect that makes stainless steel wire fencing such an attractive option is its ability to blend into any landscape or garden. Its minimalist design allows for unobstructed views on both sides of the fence while still providing adequate protection from prying eyes. For added stability, sturdy fence posts are used with slats placed between them which can then be connected with either wires or cables according to personal preference.

7. PVC Coated Wire Mesh Fencing

PVC-coated wire mesh fencing is an excellent choice for those looking for a functional and attractive way to add privacy to their homes or businesses. Not only does vinyl-coated wire mesh provide the necessary screening, but its neutral color palette also complements any existing design scheme. The vinyl coating on PVC-coated wire mesh fencing also provides added protection against harsh weather conditions such as rain and snow.

8. Aluminum Wire Fencing

When it comes to designing a front yard fence, aluminum wire fencing is an excellent choice. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing with its clean lines and minimalist design, but it also offers several practical benefits that make the material ideal for all types of yards. Unlike more traditional fences like wood fences or metal fences, the aluminum wire doesn't rust or corrode over time so you can count on your fence lasts for years without needing any maintenance.

Wire Fencing Costs

The costs associated with this type of fencing may be divided into two distinct categories: direct and indirect costs. Direct costs include the cost of purchasing the raw materials, such as steel wire, as well as installation labor. Indirect costs may encompass transport and storage fees, permits or licenses, painting or other surface treatments, and any extra maintenance or repairs that may be required over time.

On average, woven wire fence costs around $2 per foot, vinyl coated wire fence costs $1.75 per foot, and barbed wire costs $1.50 per foot. Considering you need 100 feet of woven wire fence with fence posts every 4-5 feet, you would be needing around $900 to $1,100 for this type of fence project.

To get a detailed breakdown of wire fence costs and explore pricing options for different types of wire fencing, check out our comprehensive wire fence costs page.

Wire Fence Gauges 

Gauges in wire fences are an integral component of the structure, determining the physical characteristics and strength of the fence. The gauge is a numerical sign of the diameter or thickness of the wires used in the construction of a fence.

Generally, a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire, thus a higher gauge number indicates a thinner wire. The most commonly used gauges in fencing range from 9 to 18, with the common backyard or garden fences typically utilizing gauges ranging from 9-12.

8-gauge wire is another popular choice among many fence builders due to its blend of cost-effectiveness and strength. This type of fencing is resistant to rusting and corrosion, allowing for a longer life span without needing regular maintenance or replacement.

Gauges can vary depending on the purpose of the fence, with factors such as tensile strength, weather exposure, and intended use taken into account when selecting an appropriate gauge for a particular application.

Related: How to Install a Barbed Wire Fence

Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to wire fencing.

What is the cheapest type of wire fence? 

When it comes to selecting the cheapest type of wire fence, there are several options. The most common and cost-effective option is chain link fencing, which uses a series of galvanized steel wires woven together to form a strong barrier. This type of fence is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. It also provides good security for areas that need an extra layer of protection, such as around pools or other outdoor areas.

Want to learn more about chain link fence costs? Dive into our comprehensive guide for valuable insights on pricing and budgeting for your chain link fence installation project.

Another option for those looking for an even more cheap solution is chicken wire fencing. This type of fence utilizes small mesh wire that can be used in a variety of ways, from boundary enclosures to garden edging. It's incredibly affordable and can be installed quickly with minimal effort - perfect for those on a tight budget!

What is the best type of wire fencing material?

When it comes to selecting a type of wire fencing material, there are several options to choose from. Of all the choices, stainless steel is certainly one of the best. It resists corrosion, can easily be installed and removed and is highly durable. Best of all, it gives off a sleek modern look that adds a certain level of sophistication to any space.

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Another great option for wire fencing material is woven wire. This type of fence has an aesthetically pleasing look and provides excellent coverage with its strong mesh design. It also offers superior visibility which makes it perfect for security purposes. Plus, woven wire lasts longer than many other types as it's made of hardy galvanized steel wires with zinc coating for added protection against rusting or corrosion.

What is the difference between woven and welded wire fencing?

When it comes to designing a wire fence, there are two main types of configurations to choose from: woven and welded. Woven wire fencing is constructed from strands of steel that are twisted together in an intricate pattern. This creates a barrier that's both sturdy and attractive. Welded wire fencing is composed of individual wires that have been fused together at the points where they cross one another. This creates a rigid mesh structure with much less give than woven varieties, allowing for greater security and strength.

The difference between these two types of designs comes down to aesthetic preference and intended purpose. Woven fencing is more flexible but also less secure than welded options. It looks great in residential yards or gardens but may not stand up as well against attempts to climb or break through the fence.

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What is electric netting?

It’s an electrifiable, prefabricated, portable fence that arrives to your door as a complete roll with the line posts already built in. The fence’s “mesh” is composed of plastic verticals “welded” to electrifiable polywire. The net is supported by PVC (or fiberglass composite) posts which are spaced throughout the netting. Each line post has a steel spike at the base that’s inserted into the ground for support. A standard roll (164 ft) inclusive of posts weighs between 15–25 lbs.

Electric netting is NOT physically strong. Rather, it relies upon pain and the animal’s memory. When properly energized, animals touch it, quickly learn the fence is painful—and then avoid it.

• Temporary electric netting is your best choice for fast-paced rotational grazing set-ups, or for situations where you need to frequently move the fence.
• Semi-permanent netting (e.g. PermaNets and QuikFences) can be used when you need the fence installed for weeks or months at a time. But they aren’t as easy to handle and will require more maintenance than permanent fences.

Consider a electric netting kit if you’re new to using an electric fence. Why? Because all the parts and pieces necessary are included.

How electric netting works…

The visual combination of a close mesh of vertical and horizontal wires encourages animals to touch it with their sensitive nose, ears or beak. The horizontal strands are conductive. (An exception is the bottom strand that rests on the ground.) When the fence is energized, a very brief, high-voltage pulse travels through the wires. When an animal touches the fence, they receive a painful shock—and learn to avoid it.

Factors that affect a pulse’s strength and shock effect…

• Joules of output from the energizer equal the volume of electrons in a pulse. The more joules, the larger the potential shock effect to an animal.
• Resistance of conductors, animal and soil. High total resistance absorbs more electrons and reduces the shock effect.
• Electron loss via grass contact and poor insulators. Electrons that leak this way are not available to shock the animal.
• Changing weather and seasonal conditions. Dew, fog, rain and general humidity will negatively affect voltage. The electric pulse will more readily jump (arc) from the hot wires to wet vegetation, which is more likely in the morning when the dew is still on.
• Soil resistance. When the soil is dry, sandy or rocky, fewer electrons are able to be received by the ground rod, thus pulse strength is diminished.
• Without proper grounding, the fence’s electrical circuit can not be completed. As a result, it will not be an effective pain barrier to animals.

The more power your energizer can put through the conductive wires, the more “problems” you can have with the fence and still maintain voltage on the entire length of the fence line. A good rule of thumb is to buy a larger fence energizer than you’ll think you need. When the fence pleases, most folks will buy more fence—and need additional output.

Electric Netting FAQs

Q: Will electric netting stop predators?

Ground-based predators such as coyotes, foxes, fisher cats, skunks, raccoons, opossum, weasels, dogs and even bears are deterred by electric fence. Aerial predators (e.g. hawks, eagles, owls) are the exception. When containing poultry, set up narrow runs to reduce flying predators’ swooping ability, or drape Aerial Protection Net over the enclosure.

Note: Lightweight garden varmints, such as squirrels and chipmunks do NOT make good foot-to-soil contact. As such, these critters won’t receive a memorable shock. Squirrels are especially cunning; they often jump onto the fence without making any ground contact. Without ground contact, an animal won’t be shocked. (This is why birds can perch on power lines without being electrocuted.)

Q: Do different animals require different fences?

Yes/no. Fencing for the hardest to contain animal will work for the easiest to contain.

• Example 1: Chickens and goats—fence for the chickens
• Example 2: Goats, pigs and cows—fence for the goats

Temporary fences that are not physically strong pose the greatest risk of escape (or entanglement) to newly acquired animals. It pays to train them first!

Set up a temporary fence alongside (1 to 2 ft away) a secure permanent fence that the animals can’t get through. Make sure the temporary fence is electrified—at least V at the end of fence. Introduce the animals to the fence and monitor for a few hours. That way if one were to get into the fence and get caught, you can turn the power off and get them loose.

To reduce the risk of animals challenging netting:

• Do NOT allow animals of the same species (i.e. sheep/sheep) to be on both sides of a net at the same time.
• Never use netting to separate mothers from weaned progeny.
• Never force animals against netting; give them time and space to avoid contacting it.
• Keep netting energized! A common mistake is not electrifying it. Electric fence is a pain barrier, not a physical barrier. Use a high-output fence energizer to combat weed contact and intimidate animals.

Q: What is the effect of dry soil?

Moisture determines the conductivity (or not) of soil. Dry soil increases resistance and absorbs more electrons. A weaker, less effective pulse occurs that does not deter animals.

To overcome this, use positive/negative fences (Pos/Neg), wide impedance energizers, higher output units and/or more ground rods.

In order to receive a shock from a Pos/Neg fence, the animal must touch both a positive (hot) and negative (grounded) strand at the same time. This will deliver more pain to the animal than an all hot net (Pos/Pos) because moisture in the soil is not required to complete the circuit.

Q: I have more length than I need. What should I do with the excess?

An electric fence does NOT have to make a circle and the clips at the end of the net are not required to connect.

We recommend two methods for dealing with excess netting:

1. Overlap the fences. As long as none of the electrified strands are sagging and touching the ground, the fences may be set side by side.
2. Make a U-turn. This method involves a FiberTuff (or other insulated post) and results in a convenient gate:
   1. Insert one FiberTuff next to your starting post and construct your enclosure.
   2. When you return to your starting point, make a 180° turn around the FiberTuff, overlapping the excess net alongside the original. It’s okay if the conductors touch one another. (Pos/Neg netting is an exception. See below.) Try to keep all conductors from touching the ground—this will reduce the effectiveness of the shock effect.
   3. Secure the FiberTuff to the original starting post with the storage string to enter/exit the paddock.

Pos/Neg fences may be run alongside one another, but make sure to keep the fences at least 3–6" apart. If the metal conductors come in contact with one another, it will create a short.

Why Premier “knows” netting…

Electric netting has been in use at Premier for over 50 years (since )—longer than anyone in the US. We use miles of it on our farms year-round, in all weather. And, we talk daily to netting users nationwide — who let us know what they like and/or dislike.

Why users like netting so much…

It’s almost a mistake to call netting a fence. Why? Because the word “fence” suggests a barrier that’s costly, time-consuming and complicated to install and won’t be removed for decades. But netting is the exact opposite:

✔ Complete

Netting is a complete fence on its own—lacking only a suitable fence energizer. Line posts are built in to each roll. FiberTuff™ posts can be used for extra support at corners and ends.

✔ Simple (and quick!) to install

Netting doesn’t require a contractor to install. Very little “sweat energy” is needed and no tools! 600 ft can be moved or installed in an evening by nearly anyone over 12 years old.

✔ Dependable

New users are often surprised that livestock and wildlife very quickly learn to fear the fence. When adequately electrified, netting is very effective. A roll of netting will last 8–10 years if used with care. Lawn mowers and ice storms are its worst enemies!

✔ Adaptable

Netting is so easy to move that it’s often moved several times a season. Use it to fence around obstacles or dips and curves in difficult terrain.

✔ Ships FREE to your door!

What users dislike...

• The fence line must be mowed when green grass covers the lowest “live” strand. The alternative is to apply a strip of herbicide to kill weeds.
• Ice and heavy snow can flatten and thereby damage it. That’s why most choose to store netting fences for the winter.
• High wind can lean it over.
• Electric netting will sag without support posts at corners and ends. “Plus” nets include additional line posts to reduce sag (in exchange for added weight.) For most, sagging net is a cosmetic problem, not a functional one. At worst, excessive sagging may reduce the “shock” effect when lower electrified stands make contact with the ground. SagStopper™ for 48" tall nets can solve both problems. Less sagging = more eye appeal and less ground contact.
• Animals may become entangled in it—and die. On a % basis, entanglement is very rare, but it can and does occur.

To Reduce Risk and Liability...

Are electric fences a serious safety risk to humans?

Because touching an electric fence is painful and the voltages are high, most assume that the risks from an energized fence must also be high. That’s a myth. Consider that millions of people throughout the world are “exposed” to millions of electric fences every day—yet they are involved in (but are not always the cause of) less than one human death or serious injury per year worldwide. Compare that to the number of annual injuries and deaths that occur from human exposure to tractors, skid loaders, ladders, PTO shafts, balers, mowers, combines, bulls, stallions, rifles, shotguns, knives, etc. This is not to suggest that there is no risk at all. There is, indeed, a small level of risk. And with risk, there is also liability to the fence’s owner.

For safer electric fences:

• Make them visible to humans and animals. Visibility is increased by contrast. (That’s why many Premier nets are black and white in color.)
• Educate. Hang warning signs on all electric fences. Tell children to never touch it. Everyone should avoid head and neck contact.
• Allow space for people and animals to walk easily along or around it.
• Avoid high-output fence energizers (greater than 8 joules) unless they include delayed pulse technology. It’s best not to use high-output energizers on short fences that have public exposure.

What NOT to do!

• Never place your head or upper spine near an electrified wire. Accidental head or neck contact can occur when pushing a voltage probe into the soil. Be careful when doing so to avoid head-to-wire contact!
• Never attempt to step over or climb through an energized fence of any kind.
• Never encourage anyone to touch an electric fence.
• Do NOT use an energizer that is labeled high impedance, continuous current, weed burner or weed chopper. We recommend only low or wide impedance pulse energizers.

Warning!

In an accidental fatality occurred when a young child’s head contacted an electrified fence while the child was crawling on wet grass. The fence was correctly installed and functioning properly. The energizer was a UL approved unit. As a result, Premier strongly advises against allowing toddlers access to any electrified fences. Also, due to this incident and others, experts now suggest that human contact by an energized wire to the head and neck may be the most dangerous point of contact. We urge all to especially avoid this kind of contact.

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