When you build a new fence, you want it to last a long time and avoid putting more time, energy, and money into the project than necessary - right? If you answered “yes,” we agree! However, to do that, a basic understanding of wire terms is critical to determine which wire is best for your situation. Tensile strength is one of the features we pay close attention to when selecting different wires for specific projects.
You need a wire that will stay tight long after the fence is built. If the wire stretches too much, the fence will eventually start to sag. You will have to spend additional time and money re-stretching the fence to keep it tight so your animals won’t break through. Stop wasting your resources. Use a stronger wire that will stay tight year after year.
Wire strength is based on the amount of carbon in the steel. The higher the carbon content, the stronger the wire. The stronger the wire, the longer the fence will stay tight. All wire falls into three categories: high tensile, medium tensile, and low carbon.
Long story short, high tensile wire has the most carbon content on the steel and is the strongest wire on the market. Low-carbon steel wire is the weakest wire on the market with the least amount of carbon. Let’s break down the difference between the types of wire.
High Tensile
- 0.28% carbon content
- Made from high-carbon steel
- 960 lbs. to 1,345 lbs. minimum breaking strength depending on fence type
- Stretches up to 4%
High tensile wire is 2-3 times stronger than low carbon wire, only stretches up to 4% ( meaning it does not need to be re-stretched), and requires the least number of line posts.
Medium Tensile
- 750 lbs. minimum breaking strength
- Stretches up to 6%
- Requires fewer line posts than low-carbon wire
- 13 gauge medium tensile field fence is 64% stronger than 12.5 gauge low carbon field fence
Medium Tensile strength is unique to Pasture Management Hinge-Joint Field Fence. It is a great budget-friendly option that is stronger, higher quality, and lasts 3-5 times longer than other low-carbon field fences. Learn more about the Pasture Management Hinge Joint Field Fence here https://www.pasturemgmt.com/about/blog/field-fence-an-improved-option-for-your-next-wire-fence-project
Low Carbon
- 0.10% carbon content
- Made from low-carbon steel
- 460 lbs. minimum breaking strength
- Stretches up to 14%
- Requires more line posts to support the fence
- Requires frequent re-stretching
When it comes to the longevity of your fence, low carbon wire has the shortest life span.
If you are strictly looking for a budget-friendly wire option, and you don’t mind more maintenance and time later to ensure the fence's structural integrity, then Pasture Management’s Medium Tensile Standard Field fence is the for you. It typically costs about the same as a low carbon field fence.
In 2024, Pasture Management changed all Horse and Sheep and Goat wire from low carbon wire to high tensile wire to provide the most protection and longest-lasting fence for your horses, sheep, goats, and other animals. This wire is an s-knot (smooth knot) wire option that prevents knicks and cuts on their hide if they rub on the fence. Check out these products and find the Pasture Management dealer closest to you to learn more about these NEW high tensile products available.
https://www.pasturemgmt.com/find-dealer/map
Tensile strength is essential if you are concerned about longevity and saving time and money over the long haul. We want you to have the best-looking fence on the road and not receive calls late at night that the animals are out, so consider using high tensile or medium tensile wire on your next fencing project.