The Most Common Stock Fencing Problems and How to Fix Them

Stock fencing is essential for keeping livestock secure, protecting boundaries, and maintaining well-organised land. However, like all outdoor structures, stock fencing can develop issues over time due to weather exposure, ground movement, and general wear. At Fast Fix Fencing Wimblington, we regularly assist property owners across Wimblington, Cambridge with repairs, adjustments, and upgrades to keep their fencing reliable and fit for purpose.

Understanding the most common stock fencing problems—and how to fix them—helps landowners prevent livestock escape, reduce maintenance costs, and keep their boundaries in strong condition year-round.

Loose, Sagging, or Stretched Wire

One of the most frequent issues with stock fencing is wire that becomes slack over time. This often happens due to:

• Ground movement
  
• Weather expansion and contraction
  
• Animals pushing or leaning against the fence
  
• Ageing materials
  

Loose wire reduces the effectiveness of the fence and makes it easier for livestock to push through.

How to fix it:
Re-tensioning the wire is essential. This may involve tightening existing strainers or installing new ones, replacing weakened sections, or repairing damaged staples and fixings. Ensuring posts are secure is also key, as loose posts often cause wire to slacken prematurely.

Rotting or Unstable Fence Posts

Timber posts naturally deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to wet ground or standing water. When posts rot, the entire fence line loses stability, leading to leaning or collapsed sections.

Common signs include:

• Posts wobbling when pushed
  
• Fences leaning to one side
  
• Soil erosion around the post base
  
• Cracks or decay in the timber
  

How to fix it:
Replace the damaged posts and secure them with proper depth and bracing. Modern, treated timber posts or metal options can offer better resilience for long-term use.

Animal Damage and Impact Points

Livestock can cause considerable stress on stock fencing. Sheep rubbing, cattle pushing, or horses leaning can weaken structural points. Wild animals can also cause damage.

Typical results include:

• Bent or broken wires
  
• Displaced posts
  
• Gaps forming along the bottom of the fence
  
• Snagging points where fleece or hair catches
  

How to fix it:
Reinforcement may be needed in high-impact areas. This can include stronger corner posts, additional bracing, heavier-gauge wire, and properly tensioned strainer systems. Replacing severely damaged sections is often the most efficient solution.

Gaps Forming Under the Fence Line

Over time, soil erosion, burrowing animals, and ground movement can create gaps beneath the fence. Livestock—especially sheep and smaller animals—may exploit these spaces to escape.

How to fix it:
Installing ground-level boards, tightening the lower wire, or reinforcing the base with additional mesh prevents animals from pushing underneath. Levelling the ground or adding compacted material may also be required.

Corroded or Weakened Wire

Although stock fencing wire is designed to withstand the elements, rust and corrosion can still occur, particularly in exposed rural environments or areas with high moisture levels.

Common signs include:

• Rust patches
  
• Brittle wire that snaps when handled
  
• Discolouration
  
• Visible pitting or weakness
  

How to fix it:
Replacing corroded sections is critical for maintaining overall strength. Galvanised wire or modern high-tensile alternatives can significantly improve longevity.

Loose or Missing Staples and Fixings

Staples play an important role in keeping wire tight and properly attached to posts. Over time, they can loosen or fall out, especially where livestock exert pressure.

How to fix it:
Replace missing or loose staples, ensuring they are correctly sized and driven at an angle for maximum grip. In some cases, upgrading to heavier-duty fixings can improve long-term performance.

Incorrect Installation Leading to Early Failure

Some stock fencing problems trace back to poor installation practices—posts not set deep enough, inadequate corner bracing, or incorrect wire tensioning. These issues often lead to premature sagging, instability, and ongoing maintenance needs.

How to fix it:
A proper professional assessment is often required to identify the root cause. Rebuilding part of the fence or strengthening weak points may be necessary for long-term stability.

Conclusion

Stock fencing plays a vital role in protecting land and livestock, but it requires proper care to remain effective. Common issues such as loose wire, damaged posts, animal impact, and corrosion can be resolved through professional maintenance and timely repairs. For property owners in Wimblington, Cambridge, Fast Fix Fencing Wimblington provides reliable, high-quality solutions that keep your fencing secure and long-lasting.

If you have stock fencing that needs attention or would like expert advice on improving boundary security, contact us today to arrange a friendly site visit.

Call us on: 01354 707 488
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