COMMONLY USED FENCING MATERIALS

A number of materials can be used to make safe fencing for horses, either alone or in combination. And regional factors make some materials more popular than others in different parts of the country---for example metal pipe fencing is more often seen on horse properties located in regions where the energy industry is active.

Costs, of both supplies and labor, will vary widely, depending on where you live and other factors. Estimates listed here are for purchase price of materials only. Here are some of the more common materials used for horse fencing:

ELECTRIFIED WIRE FENCE

Electric fences can be made with a variety of metals---aluminum, high-tensile steel or polymer-coated wire ---with the addition of insulators to separate the wires from any conductive material including the posts, as well as a charger (also called an energizer) and some sort of grounding system, usually conductive posts or wires set into the ground. Some chargers can be plugged into the farm’s electrical system; other fences come with solarpowered chargers. The entire fence may consist of electrified wire, or a single strand may be added to the top of other types of structures.

• Cost: Some of the same wires used in high-tensile fencing can also be electrified. You can also expect to spend an additional $100 up to $300 or $400 for the charger, depending on the size and features you need. You’ll also need to purchase grounding materials and insulators, as well as a voltmeter to measure the electricity flowing through your fence. If the electric fence is plugged into your barn’s electrical system, you’ll incur additional costs on your electric bill.

• Maintenance: In addition to maintaining tension