Square knot field fencing (sometimes also called square knot woven wire mesh fencing) is a type of fencing commonly used in agriculture, especially for livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats, or for protecting land and crops. It is a variation of woven wire mesh fencing, named for the square knots used to connect the wires. This type of fencing is favored for its high strength, durability, and relatively easy installation.
Key features of square knot field fencing:
1. Square Knot Structure
Knot Design: The square knot is a simple yet strong knot used to connect the horizontal and vertical wires of the fencing. This knot tightly secures the vertical wires to the horizontal wires, forming a square grid pattern, resulting in a uniform and tight woven structure. This knot is durable and does not easily loosen.
Stability: The square knot design provides stability and strength by securing each connection point, minimizing the risk of the fencing stretching or deforming over time, even under the pressure of large animals.
2. Strength and Durability
High-Strength Steel Wire: Square knot fences are typically made with high-strength steel wire, offering high strength and damage resistance. This wire can withstand the pressure of large animals and the effects of environmental factors, and is not prone to breakage or sagging.
Galvanized Coating: Most square knot fences are galvanized, meaning the steel wire is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. This extends the fence's lifespan, ensuring it can withstand moisture, sunlight, and various weather conditions.
Corrosion Resistance: Galvanizing contributes to the fence's lifespan of several years, making it a low-maintenance option for long-term use, especially suitable for areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall.
3. Animal Confinement
Effective Livestock Confinement: Square knot fences are ideal for confining large livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. The strength and tightness of the square knot weave prevent animals from breaking through the fence or getting entangled.
Different Spacing for Different Animals: The fence spacing can be customized to suit the types of livestock you are confining. For example:
Cattle: Cattle typically use square knot fences with larger vertical spacing (e.g., 6 to 8 inches).
Sheep or Goats: These animals require smaller spacing, so the vertical spacing of the fence may be as small as 3 to 4 inches to prevent them from escaping.
Small Animals: Square knot fences can also be used to prevent small animals (such as deer) from entering, and even to protect gardens and crops.
4. Versatility
Multiple Uses: Square knot fences have a wide range of uses:
Livestock Confinement: Ideal for farms or ranches that need to confine livestock to designated areas.
Wildlife Protection: These fences can also be used to prevent wild animals from entering orchards, gardens, or fields.
Boundaries: Square knot field fences are ideal for perimeter fencing and can be used to protect large plots of land or estates.
5. Height and Flexibility
Multiple Heights Available: Square knot field fences are available in a variety of heights, typically between 3 feet and 6 feet. Higher fences are often used for confining cattle or other large animals. Higher fences (8 feet or more) can be used to prevent animals such as deer from jumping.
Flexible Design: The woven wire has a degree of flexibility, so the fence can withstand the pressure of animals without breaking. The fence can be stretched or adjusted during installation to adapt to uneven or hilly terrain.
6. Easy Installation
Rolled Wire: Square knot field fences are typically sold in rolls, making them easy to handle, transport, and install. The rolled wire can be unrolled along the fence line, making this type of wire fence relatively easier to handle compared to solid wood or other types of fences.
Simple Installation: The fence is installed by securing the wire to the posts (usually spaced 8 to 10 feet apart) and pulling it taut to ensure the wire remains taut. This tautness helps the fence remain upright and stable over the long term.
Post Types: You can choose from a variety of post types to install square knot fences, including wooden, metal, or concrete posts, depending on your budget and aesthetic preferences.
7. Cost and Long-Term Value
Affordable Price: While square knot fencing is more expensive than some simple wire fencing, it is generally more cost-effective than alternatives such as welded wire mesh or wooden fencing. It strikes a balance between price and durability.
Low Maintenance Costs: Galvanized steel wire requires virtually no maintenance after installation. Unlike wooden fencing, which requires frequent repairs or replacements due to rot or damage, square knot fencing typically only needs occasional inspection and wire tightening.
8. Aesthetics and Visual Effect
Neat and Uniform: The square knot weaving technique creates a neat and uniform appearance.