Different Types of Woven Wire


Woven wire, commonly referred to as field fence, is made of horizontal wires that are permanently attached to vertical wires (stays).  In most cases, the woven wire has graduated spacing where the horizontal wires are spaced closer together near the bottom and further apart toward the top.  The narrow spacing at the bottom is meant to keep smaller animals in and predators out.  Graduated spacing also reduces the weight and cost of the wire in comparison to evenly spaced woven wires.  A roll of woven wire is typically 330 feet and 12 1/2 gauge.  Be sure to use a class 3 galvanized wire for up to three times the life expectancy.  Woven wire can be constructed by using three different knotting styles.

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Hinge Joint – The hinge joint is the most common knot in agricultural fencing.  The knot is formed by wrapping the vertical wire pieces around the line wire at each intersection.  This design can absorb animal impact.  While more economical, it is also more vulnerable to animals working the fence and establishing openings in the wire.

 

 

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“S” Knot (Square Knot or Stiff-Stay Joint) – The “S” knot is comprised of a separate piece of wire that attaches the line wire to the vertical wire.  The “S” knot is smooth to the touch and strong enough to resist animal impact.  These joints won’t slip or work loose.  The knots give vertical strength, reduce sag, and increase flexibility on undulating terrain.

 

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Fixed Knot – The fixed knot is unique because it uses a separate piece of wire to secure the vertical stay wire to the line wire. This increases the overall strength of the fence and allows for increased post spacing.  This knot is so strong that less posts can be used without sag.

 

 


Woven wire is available in a variety of heights and configurations.  Understanding the product description will help you select the right fence.

EXAMPLE OF A WIRE TAG DESCRIPTION:

                                                                                                                                             
20/96/6 12 1/2 Ga 330’ Class 3

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20 = number of line wires

96 = height of the fence in inches

6 = stay-wire spacing in inches

12 1/2 Gauge = diameter of the wire

330’ = length of the fence

Class 3 = weight of the galvanization

 

 

 

  

Woven wire fences are definitely the most solid and secure, but also the most costly to purchase. Woven wire can become an itching post for larger livestock, so adding a hot wire or strand of barbed wire on the inside is a common practice. They are highly visible, easily control small and large animals, and provide predator protection. If you want the strongest and safest fence on the market, build a high-tensile woven wire fence with the correct configuration to suit your application.

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