Whether you already have a fenced-in farm or planning on building one, there are certain basic steps to keep in mind when adding a farm gate. From the planning process to maintaining the finished product, follow these simple rules to get the most out of your gate.

Planning a Fence and Gate

There are many reasons to build a fence around your farm and a gate to control traffic. Whether for privacy or protecting livestock, know what the main focus of the fence and gate will be and build accordingly.

If your farm gate and fence is for privacy:

• Position it at the end of a long private drive.
• Position it any any private entrance if you welcome the public to your farm.
• Build it out of sturdy metals for more security.
• Wooden gates provide more versatile designs and aesthetics.

If your farm gate and fence is primarily for animal control:

• Build strong fences and sturdy gates out of woven or barbed wire for herding cattle or separating bulls from cows.
• Use wooden board with or without wire that’s easily visible for horses.
• Contain other livestock with gates and fences high enough to keep them in and predators out.

Farm Gate and Fence Placement

When you’re planning to build a fence, think about if it’s going to be:

• Temporary. Moveable barriers help control grazing, and are easily positioned and stored when not needed.
• Permanent. Fences around a property line or pasture should be made of high quality materials that will last overtime.

Gates should be positioned at the corners of a fence, closest to farm buildings for easy access. Put them directly across from one another to help transfer grazing animals so they can go straight across a road or other field.

Avoid building gates on rough terrain, steep hills, and flood prone areas that could add more wear and tear to its construction.

Farm Gate Material and Maintenance

The type of material you use will depend on the purpose of your fence and gate. From wood to wire that’s barbed or electric, you want to keep the animals and people safe, but the predators—both human and animals—deterred from entering the premises.

All gate and fence hardware—like hinges and closures—should also be sturdy and carefully maintained for the best gate performance. Repair and replace any weak spots in the gate or fence itself, and prevent weeds from taking over any area and causing more deterioration.

For more on farm gate basics, contact the gate specialists at Security Five today.

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