Gates
Gates for fences may be purchased or constructed. Several plans for gates, people-passages, and cattle guards are in the Midwest Plan Service livestock handbooks. These books are available through your nearest MU Extension center.
Special problems
There are two problems that occur often enough to merit special attention. They are contour fencing and uneven terrain.
Contour fences are most often associated with terraces. Reduce post spacing when the fence line curves to prevent wire tension from overturning the posts. Use the following procedure to determine the proper spacing:
Figure 4
Method of determining curvature for contour fences. Use "distance" measurement to determine proper post placement.
1. Stake out a smooth curve for the fence line using stakes at 14-foot intervals.
2. Select any three adjacent stakes on the curve and stretch a string between the first and third stake (Figure 4).
3. Measure the distance from the string to the center stake and use the following table to determine post spacing.
|
Distance |
Post spacing |
|
4 inches |
14 feet |
|
8 inches |
10 feet |
|
12 inches |
8 feet |
|
20 inches |
7 feet |
When setting posts on the curve, slope them outward about 2 inches. Attach the wire to the side of the post facing the outside of the curve. Posts will straighten when the wire is stretched.
Crossing low spots requires special precautions to prevent post withdrawal or washout. In locations not subject to frequent flooding, use extra length posts set 3-1/2 to 4 feet deep or set posts in concrete to prevent withdrawal (Figure 5).
A hinged flood gate may be used in low spots that flood or when crossing streams with fences (Figure 6).
Figure 5
Line post anchored in concrete to prevent withdrawal or washout because of its gully location
Figure 6
Hinged flood gate assembly for use over streams or in gullies subject to frequent flooding
Figure 7
Method of splicing together lengths of (a) woven wire and (b) barbed wire
Maintenance
A properly maintained fence will give long and trouble free service. The following items should be a part of your regular maintenance program:
Repair or replace anchor post assemblies whenever they show any signs of weakness.
Refasten loose wires to posts and splice broken wires as necessary.
Keep the fence properly stretched.
Keep the fence line clear of weeds and brush.
Plan and follow a regular inspection routine to locate any needed maintenance.
wire mesh fence, wire mesh fencing |
