Which Electric Fence Wire Is Right for You?

There are various types of portable electric fence wires, tapes, and braids, often referred to as "conductors." Choosing the right one can be challenging, especially for those new to electric fencing.

Here, we guide you through the different types of conductors available to assist you in making the best choice for your farm.

Poly Wire

One of the most common portable or temporary fence conductors is poly wire. It's composed of plastic strands with embedded thin metal wires designed to carry electrical current from a Fence Energizer. These strands are typically tightly twisted together to form a single wire.

Polywire is a good fence choice since it is more visible than traditional metal wire, lightweight and installs easily. Polywire is easily tightened, spliced, repaired and rewound. Use a poly wire tightener to maintain wire tension as needed.

Polywire can be re-used again and again making it a convenient wire for temporary, strip or rotational grazing and pet control. Polywire should not be used with continuous output chargers.

Poly wire may not have the strength of steel wire fencing, but it doesn't rust and is more visible to animals. Versions with a diameter less than 3mm are popular for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, while larger 5mm diameter versions are suitable for horses due to enhanced visibility.

Available on a reel, poly wire provides a convenient option for temporary fencing solutions like strip grazing and offers a cost-effective way to subdivide pastures.

Poly Tape

Poly tape consists of individual strands of plastic and wire woven together to create a highly visible ribbon-like appearance. It's durable, capable of withstanding all weather conditions, and resistant to rust. White tape offers high visibility against green vegetation or brown landscapes, while brown or green tape stands out against snowy backgrounds.

Electric poly tape comes in various widths, each suited for different applications. Thicker tape, due to its enhanced visibility and strength, is recommended for perimeter fences. However, in windy areas, thinner tape is preferable as it offers less resistance to wind, reducing the risk of wind damage. In such cases, Poly Braid may be a better choice for perimeter fencing.

Poly Braid

Poly braid offers superior construction compared to poly wire and is less susceptible to damage from wind and ice compared to poly tape.

It consists of individual strands of plastic and wire braided tightly together, resulting in a durable weave that is less prone to tangling and overstretching. Poly braid is available in various diameters (thicknesses).

Factors to Consider When Choosing Electric Fence Wire

1. Fence Length and Terrain

The length of your fence and the terrain of your property will influence the type of electric fence wire you choose. For long stretches of fencing or areas with uneven terrain, high-tensile wire may be the most suitable option due to its strength and durability.

2. Animal Type and Behavior

Consider the type of animals you are containing and their behavior patterns. For larger animals or those with a tendency to challenge fences, high-tensile wire or aluminum wire may provide the necessary strength and conductivity. For smaller animals or those prone to testing boundaries, polywire or polytape may be more appropriate.

3. Budget and Longevity

Evaluate your budget and long-term fencing goals when selecting electric fence wire. While high-tensile wire may require a higher initial investment, its durability and longevity may justify the cost over time. Alternatively, polywire and polytape offer cost-effective solutions for temporary or short-term fencing needs.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right electric fence wire depends on various factors specific to your property and fencing requirements. By considering factors such as fence length, terrain, animal type, behavior, budget, and longevity, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs effectively.

Contact us today to learn more about our electric fence wire products and find the perfect solution for your fencing needs.