What I’d Change About Our Fencing If I Could Go Back

If you’re new to land life, fencing seems easy enough. But I’ll be honest—this is one of those things you’ll probably get wrong the first time. We sure did. Looking back, here’s what I wish we’d done differently from the start.

Spent More Upfront on Quality Materials

We tried to save money by going cheap on posts and wire. That decision came back to bite us in less than a year.

Spend a little more up front for treated posts and heavier-gauge wire. Replacing or repairing later costs more in time and money.

Planned the Layout Before Breaking Ground

We threw up fences based on where we thought we’d want animals. Then we added more. Then we had to move them.

If we’d mapped it out first—including gates, alleyways, and paddocks—we’d have saved a ton of effort.

Put in More Gates (And Wider Ones)

You can’t have too many gates, and you definitely can’t have too much space to move equipment through them.

We didn’t think about moving trailers, hay, or the tractor. Now we’ve got tight turns and regrets.

Used More Corner Braces

One brace on each end doesn’t cut it for a long run of fence. The whole line starts sagging, and the tension fails.

We learned the hard way—reinforce your corners and stretch points properly the first time.

Buried the Bottom Wire (Especially for Goats)

We underestimated how determined animals are. Goats slipped under, dogs dug under, and we had a mess.

If you’ve got smaller livestock, bury the bottom wire or add a board at ground level to keep them where they belong.

Added Hot Wire Early

We waited to add electric wire until we had escape issues. Should’ve added it from day one—it would’ve saved us some drama.

A single strand of hot wire up top or inside can make all the difference in training animals to respect the fence.

Thought Ahead for Future Animals

We fenced for what we had, not what we’d eventually get. Then we had to redo whole sections for pigs and larger stock.

Fence once with the future in mind. It’s easier to do it right than to redo it after you’ve already worn yourself out.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.