Burgermeister:

See The Definitive Thread on Electric Fence for info on types of E-Fence.

For line fence (keeping our critters on the property and other humans off it) we use treated wooden posts, with high-tensile woven wire (48" high) and two strands of simple high tension on top (the top one can be electrified if desired). High tension (woven) wire is very rust resistant (lots of galvanize on it) with a designed life span of 20+ years, posts are supposed to be good for 20+ years too. Posts are on 16' centers.

Cost is higher than the E-fence types discussed in the above thread, higher than barb, lower than board fence. IMHO it is best for turning large animals with 2 or 4 legs. The two simple high-tension wires on type help keep deer, horses, etc. from beating down the woven wire. Repair from trees falling on this fence is usually pretty easy and quick; unless they hit a post, you just remove the tree, pull the wire up and restaple. I do that once or twice a year. Repair from having a car driven through it (has happened about 2 dozen times over the years) is a little more complicated since they usually take out posts (if not, it's not too bad).

Our Line Fence:


"Live like you'll die tomorrow, but manage your grass like you'll live forever."
-S. M. Stirling
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