The Different Types of Wire Fencing and How to Care for Them

Wire fencing is a practical and widely used solution for residential, agricultural, and commercial applications. Whether the goal is to secure property, contain animals, or protect crops, different types of wire fencing are designed for specific environments and usage needs. Understanding how each type works—and how to properly maintain it—helps ensure long-term performance, safety, and cost efficiency.

Below are the most common types of wire fencing, along with care guidance and industry website references, each serving a different role within the fencing and wire mesh sector.

1. Chain Link Fencing

Industry reference websites:

https://www.masterhalco.com/products/chain-link-fence

https://www.ameristarfence.com/chain-link-fencing

https://www.wodafence.com

Overview

Chain link fencing is made from interwoven steel wires forming a diamond-shaped mesh. It is widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings where durability, visibility, and cost efficiency are important.

Master Halco and Ameristar focus primarily on the North American fencing market, offering standardized chain link systems, accessories, and installation solutions. WODA Fence, by comparison, represents manufacturers specializing in wire fencing products for broader international markets, supplying galvanized and PVC-coated chain link fencing suitable for long-term outdoor use and export-oriented projects.

Care and Maintenance

Inspect for rust, especially in humid or coastal areas

Clean periodically to remove dirt and salt buildup

Repair damaged mesh and loose ties promptly

2. Welded Wire Fencing

Industry reference websites:

https://www.twpinc.com/welded-wire-mesh

https://www.klosterfence.com/welded-wire-fencing

https://www.woventechnicalfabrics.com

Overview

Welded wire fencing consists of steel wires welded at each intersection, forming a rigid grid structure. It is commonly used for garden fencing, pet enclosures, security barriers, and light industrial applications.

While suppliers like TWP Inc. and Kloster Fence focus on ready-to-install fencing panels and mesh products, Woven Technical Fabrics operates more broadly in the technical wire and fabric space, supplying welded wire mesh used not only in fencing, but also in filtration, reinforcement, and industrial processing applications.

Care and Maintenance

Check welded joints and surface coatings regularly

Prevent vegetation from stressing welded intersections

Ensure posts and fasteners remain secure

3. Woven Wire Fencing (Field Fence)

Industry reference websites:

https://www.redbrand.com/products/field-fence

https://www.staytuff.com/field-fence

https://www.wodafence.com

Overview

Woven wire fencing, also known as field fencing, uses knotted or twisted joints rather than welds, allowing flexibility on uneven terrain. It is widely used for livestock containment and wildlife control.

Brands like Red Brand and Stay-Tuff focus on high-tensile agricultural fencing systems. WODA Fence aligns with this category by supplying woven wire fencing designed for large-scale agricultural use, often tailored for different livestock types and regional fencing standards.

Care and Maintenance

Retighten wires periodically to avoid sagging

Inspect posts after heavy rain or ground movement

Repair broken strands promptly

4. Barbed Wire Fencing

Industry reference websites:

https://www.bekaert.com/en/products/agriculture/barbed-wire

https://www.redbrand.com/products/barbed-wire

https://www.wodafence.com

Overview

Barbed wire fencing consists of twisted steel wires with sharp barbs placed at regular intervals. It remains one of the most economical fencing solutions for large agricultural properties and perimeter security.

Bekaert and Red Brand are well-known for standardized agricultural wire products, while WODA Fence represents manufacturers supplying galvanized barbed wire for fencing projects where cost control, export supply, and adaptability to different environments are key considerations.

Care and Maintenance

Maintain proper wire tension

Inspect regularly for damaged barbs

Use galvanized wire to reduce corrosion

5. Electric Wire Fencing

Industry reference websites:

https://www.gallagher.com/en-us/fencing

https://www.premier1supplies.com/fencing.php

https://www.woventechnicalfabrics.com

Overview

Electric fencing uses energized wires to deliver a short, controlled pulse when touched. It is widely used for livestock management, rotational grazing, and wildlife deterrence.

Gallagher and Premier 1 focus on complete electric fencing systems, including energizers and accessories. Woven Technical Fabrics complements this segment by supplying durable wire and technical mesh materials used in agricultural and industrial fencing systems where conductivity, strength, and material consistency are important.

Care and Maintenance

Test voltage output regularly

Replace worn insulators immediately

Keep vegetation from contacting energized wires

6. Chicken Wire (Hexagonal Wire Mesh)

Industry reference websites:

https://www.mcnichols.com/wire-mesh/chicken-wire

https://www.twpinc.com/hexagonal-wire-netting

https://www.woventechnicalfabrics.com

Overview

Chicken wire, or hexagonal wire mesh, is lightweight and flexible, commonly used for poultry enclosures, garden protection, and small animal fencing.

Suppliers like McNichols and TWP Inc. focus on standard mesh sizes and retail availability, while Woven Technical Fabrics supplies hexagonal wire mesh as part of a wider portfolio of technical wire products, supporting both agricultural and industrial applications.

Care and Maintenance

Add support posts to prevent sagging

Choose galvanized materials for longer service life

Inspect regularly for holes or weak points

Conclusion

Wire fencing continues to play a vital role across agriculture, residential, and industrial sectors. By understanding the characteristics of each fencing type and following proper maintenance practices, users can significantly extend fence lifespan and performance. Referencing a mix of system suppliers, manufacturers, and technical material providers—such as WODA Fence and Woven Technical Fabrics—helps present a more complete and balanced view of the wire fencing industry.