FAQs

Your questions are one of the best ways for us to help you with any of your fence, stall, horse or farm needs. Most often if we hear the question once, others will ask the same question again. The FAQ page will prove to be helpful for any of your project or horse related questions. (tell how they look up a question...). From hundreds of customer's projects thoughts and ideas, our answers will quickly give you the information that you need.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - Why are stainless steel wires so important to the life and function of electric fence?

Electricity actually travels around the outside of a wire, as opposed to through the wire. When copper wires are out in the elements, they eventually corrode and oxidize. Aesthetically, this is not desirable because the wires and fence can turn green. More over, the damage is greater than just aesthetics. Electricity has a harder time traveling over wires that are corroded, bumpy and rusted. This means fence utilizing copper wires will have less voltage over time, and your fence will be less effective at containing your horses. Stainless wires will not corrode over time like copper. Therefore, stainless steel can give added life to your electric fence system.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - I have seen this type of fence that sags, why?

We recommend that you follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Any tensioned fence needs to be braced and concreted at corners, ends and any post of a straight line. If this step is omitted, sagging can occur. Steep inclines or declines could require a concreted brace post at the point of the sharpest angle or angles. A representative can look at your layout and make a recommendation. As always, we recommend electric fence in any high traffic areas. Check manufacturer's recommendations for installation. While Flex-Fence is designed to be very low maintenance, it does need occasional tightening. To do this, simply use ratchet handles to turn the spooler and tighten the fence.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - I need a gate for my electric fence. What should I use?

We offer heavy-duty, farm-grade steel gates in various lengths that can be used with any of our fence systems. However, if you choose not to use a steel gate, you can make a gate out of your electric fence. For your convenience, we carry Electric Tape gate kits that come with everything you need to make an electric gate. Or, you can purchase gate handles separately and simply attach them on the end of each rail of your fence wherever you would like to place a gate. We also offer electric gate handles with bungee cord that allow you to adjust the gate up to 20’.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - How is your electric fence different than what I find at my local farm store?

Ask about the number of wires in the farm store fence. You’ll probably find that RAMM’s electric fence contains more wires and has a stronger break strength. That could mean the difference between your horses staying in their pasture or getting loose and out on the road. Also, find out what type of plastic the rail is made from. Plastic that is not UV protected will fray from the suns damaging rays. Don’t forget about warranties. You may find that you are getting more bang for the buck by installing your pastures with RAMM’s time proven electric fence. When you purchase an electric fencing system from RAMM, you’re getting a higher quality product. Our products are farm tested to ensure performance. You’re also getting support from a staff that can help you through your project, from planning to completion. Our representatives care about your horses and will spend time finding out about your animals, needs and budget. We’ll help you choose a fence system that will do the job it should.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - Is it o.k. to ride or handle my horses in an area with electric fence?

We recommend having a separate area for riding and groundwork that is not surrounded by an electric fence. However, if budget or space dictates otherwise, PLEASE TURN THE POWER OFF while you are riding. Should your horse contact an electrified fence while you are riding or handling him on the ground, he could bolt and possibly cause injury to both of you. When you are through, remember to turn the power back on if horses will be turned out in the area. Ask our staff about cutoff switches that allow you to turn off the power to one or more areas of your fence, while leaving other parts of the fence electrified. The best way to use any fence is according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Electric fences work because horses learn that when they contact the fence, they receive a shock. This teaches the horse to stay away from the fence line. Horses that are worked in a pasture where the electric fencing is turned off may lose respect for the fence. They may try to run through it later when released in that pasture for turn out.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - How often should I turn on my electric fence?

We recommend that electric fencing be electrified at all times. Electric fences work because horses learn that when they contact the fence, they receive a shock. This teaches the horse to stay away from the fence line. If your horse has some experiences with the fence when it is not electrified, he may lose respect for the fence and try to run through it. Electric fences are designed to be electrified. They are not as strong as most non-electric options because they are not designed to withstand constant contact from horses. If you don’t keep the fence electrified, your horse will be more likely to contact the fence. This produces unnecessary wear-and-tear on the fence, and puts your horse at risk for an accident. The cost to keep an electric fence on 24 hours a day is quite minimal and is well worth the few dollars it costs per month.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - What if a person touches my electric fence?

Should someone inadvertently contact an electrified fence, he or she will receive a shock. Always use caution and avoid touching an electrified fence with the head or upper torso. Small children, the elderly, or those with heart conditions should avoid touching an electrified fence. Always post warning signs on your electric fence to alert others of its presence. Check with your local extension agency for your area’s requirements on how many signs must be posted and any requirements for the sign itself. For your convenience, we have electric fence warning signs available for purchase. Let any barn help know that you have electric fence and that it is electrified at all times. It’s also important to alert any visitors who may go near your pasture. Children should be shown the fence and given an explanation of why they should never touch the fence. If your facility will see a lot of small children or visitors who are not familiar with horses and electric fence is a concern, talk with our representatives about the other non-electric fence options we offer. We understand that electric fence is not right for every situation, and we’ll help you find something that accomplishes what you need.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - Will the electric shock hurt my horses?

Unlike the kick from an actual horses, the ''bite'' that is felt from an electric fence is short-lived and doesn’t physically harm your horse.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - Electric Fence - Why do horses respect electric fence?

In the wild, horses are herd animals, meaning there is a hierarchy among them. Horses will respect the bite, nudge, nip or kick of a more dominant horse. Electric fencing provides that ''nip'' and helps teach horses to respect the barrier. It makes perfect sense to our horses, saying ''STAY AWAY''.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - How do I clean this fence?

Flex-Fence should be cleaned with soap and water. Use a brush if necessary. If your fence is in a highly-humid area and has mold, use a pressure washer.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - Will oiling my posts break down the materials in my Flex-Fence?

No. Flex-Fence is made with polyethylene, which is the product of choice for chemical containers because it is impervious to chemicals.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - What does my warranty cover?

All manufacturer's defects. This includes cracking, peeling, chipping and discoloration. Abuse to the fence is not covered. We recommend the use of electric fence in high traffic areas. Any high tensile product will be extremely strong. However, if you crimp or fold the fence over onto itself, then pull tension on it, you create a weak spot. We recommend using a spinning jenny to unroll Flex-Fence. Do not pull the coated wire from the middle of the roll. Pull fence from the outer end of the roll. If you need to take your fence down to move it, be sure you to not kink the wire.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - Will my horse chew on the rail?

Most horses do not like to chew on polymer fencing. It is not palatable material. If horses abuse the rail, we recommend adding electric or a crib strap.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - How many spoolers will I need?

Our rolls of Next Generation Flex Fence are 660' or 330' in length. Because of the specially bonded rail, you only need one spooler every 660' on most stretches of fence. Less hardware is needed and installation is easier. If your fence is less than 660', you will still need one spooler. If you fax or e-mail a diagram, our staff can help illustrate where spoolers should be placed.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - How does this fence work?

Flex-Fence offers the key elements of strength and flexibility. Strength: this fence is one of the strongest available! When faced with an impact, it won't splinter like wood or PVC. Flexibility: this fence flexes on impact, and then returns to its original shape. Instead of staying rigid and possibly injuring your horse, this fence will give, while still keeping your horses contained. The impact is dispersed evenly down the fence line, and the fence gives 6-8", and then returns back to place. Flex-Fence combines the best of both worlds: stronger containment to help keep horse in their pastures, and the added safety of flexing on impact. The beautiful look is an added bonus.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - What kind of posts do I need?

Posts are the backbone of any fence system! They hold rails in place and provide stability for the entire structure. They are as important as your rails. If you are using wood posts, choose a good pressure treated post. Find out the retention level of the post. For example, a .40 retention level means the post will last 40 years under normal conditions. Don't be fooled into purchasing posts that are less expensive. If the post is not treated, it may last less than a year. If the post is short, the chances of your horses getting out, or an animals getting in, are greater. If the post is small in diameter or a half cut" post, you will loose the strength that is needed to withstand pressure from your horses.

Replacing posts is not as much fun as riding or working with your equine friend. Different types of fencing systems can utilize different sized posts. Check out our product pages for post suggestions or speak with a representative for more information.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - Should I put the rail on the inside or outside of the post?

Placing the rail on the inside of the post is recommended and will always be stronger, as the rail is between the animal and the post. Aesthetically, rails on the outside of the post may look better. In high-traffic areas, or for horses who like to lean and push on fencing, putting rails on the inside of the post will give you added strength and peace of mind.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - Flex-Fence - How many rails should I use?

When using a wider rail (such as 5.25" or 4.25" Flex-Fence), typical configurations are either three or four rails. In these cases, a 4-rail fence provides the better visible barrier, closer rail spacing and peace of mind. A 4-rail fence is also more aesthetically pleasing. For smaller rails like Coated Wire, four to eight rails are typical. You may decide that a combination fence system works best for you. This consists of fencing with a wider rail on top (sight rail) and three to five smaller rails underneath it.

There are many possibilities for combination fencing, and we have many ideas for your foals, yearlings, minis or stallions. We can suggest combinations of rails for nursery paddocks or any pasture to fit your budget, without sacrificing safety. The taller your posts are, the bigger spacing becomes between rails. If your horses have plenty of grass to graze on in your pasture, wider spacing between rails may not be a problem. However, if your area is a dry lot, wider spacing may mean an invitation for your horses to stick their heads through rails and reach grass on the other side. Also, if you have foals or minis in pasture, they can escape if the rail spacing is too wide. A good rule of thumb is to keep rail spacing no more than 9-11 inches. Consider the horses you have now, as well as your future plans. Will you eventually have minis, foals or stallions? It's much easier to install the extra rail when building the fence, rather than adding it later. One vet bill is usually more expensive than an extra rail of fence. If your budget doesn't allow you to fence with more rails, consider adding a deterrent rail between your larger rails. Coated Wire, Hotcote and Pro-Tek Tape are affordable and very effective.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - General Fencing - How far apart should I space my posts? I heard 50’ with some fencing.

Standard post spacing for horse fencing is 8', 10' or 12'. For smaller areas, high-traffic areas or round pens, we recommend 8'. Medium pastures should be spaced at 10', and larger pastures can be spaced at 12'. PVC post spacing must be 8' on center, while mesh fence is best at 8' or 10'. Wider post spacing can create sagging with continuously run fence rails. With horses, it is better to keep an injury at bay, rather than chancing it.

You may think that you are saving money with farther post spacing; however, most often the cost is minimal compared to the cost of an injury. Your fence rail's break strength will remain the same no matter what post spacing you use, but the give of the fence will change dramatically. For example, fencing like Electric Tape is designed to flex 4-5 inches on impact before coming back into place, or breaking free if your horse puts over 750 lbs. of pressure on the rail. With 8', 10' or 12' post spacing, the fence is able to do it's job and either come back into place, or release so your horse is less likely to get tangled or possibly injured. When posts are set at 25', 50' or even 100' as some companies suggest, the fencing will stretch up to 5' or more before either breaking or coming back into place. This puts your horse at a much greater risk of getting tangled in the fencing and possibly injured. We strongly recommend closer post spacing for the security of your horses.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - General Fencing- What is a fence “rail”?

A rail is simply the term used for the horizontal piece of fence that attaches between posts.

Fence/Electric Horse Fence - General Fencing - What is the safest kind of fencing for horses?

No fence is 100% fool proof or safe with horses. No matter how gentle or well-trained, horses are animals and their behavior can be unpredictable. Even the strongest fences can break when hit with enough force. However, we can still choose a ''safer'' fence for our prized equine's. With horses, anything is possible. That's why it's important for you to choose products that are safer alternatives. The difference between a good fence and a bad fence is usually one vet bill.

Alternative horse fence systems like RAMM's Flex-Fence are a great choice for many horse owners. Flex-Fence was designed specifically for the equine industry. It flexes on impact, and then comes back to its original place. Instead of shattering or splintering, it gives and comes back like a rubber band. Additionally, Flex-Fence is extremely strong. Our customers have sent pictures of cars, trees and trucks that have hit or landed on their fence. Most often, the only damage was to their posts. And because this fence is installed from a continuous length of rail, broken posts lean, but the rail can still stay attached to the post. This can usually still keep horses contained until the damage can be fixed.

This fence combines the key elements of strength and flexibility, making it a much safer alternative. The beauty is an added bonus. Electric fence systems work well in many situations because they provide a ''nip'' similar to what horses in the wild would get from the dominant horse in the herd. That nip signals ''stay away'' and helps teach horses to respect the fence line. However, electric fences are only effective when used as intended, which means keeping them electrified at all times. Mesh fencing comes in several varieties, but all accomplish similar things.

If you worry about children, small animals or predators getting into your pastures, mesh fence may be the choice for you. Today's mesh fences are designed with special knot construction. This creates a wire fence with small holes. It helps to keep hooves and legs from becoming caught in the fence. There are some things to consider before purchasing mesh, and contrary to popular belief, this fencing will not keep all animals out. Deer can jump, raccoons can climb, and burrowing animals can tunnel under. If you are concerned about predators, talk to our representatives, and we can suggest ideas that will help you. Although beautiful, PVC fence was not designed for livestock containment. The rails can become brittle in cold weather and can shatter on impact. Additionally, rails can pop free from posts if kicked or pushed on, leaving a large opening for horses to escape. Using electric fencing in conjunction with PVC helps, but is never ideal. We recommend PVC for use as a decorative fence.

Traditional systems like wood and barbed wire are some of the most unsafe systems available for horses. Wood fences will break and shatter on impact, not only letting horses loose, but causing injury as well. Boards can impale, and nails cut and injure. Barbed wire fencing may work well for cattle with thick hides, but it's hard for horses to see. Being thin skinned, it can cause nasty cuts and gashes to horses. No matter what fencing you choose for your horses, always follow manufacturer's recommendations for installation and use. The best system can fail if you cut corners and do not install your fence correctly. Proper installation and maintenance is crucial to the life, beauty and function of your fence system.

Our representatives will ask about the temperament of your horses, find out about your concerns, and discuss the budget that you have in mind. RAMM will help you decide on a fencing system that will accomplish what you need for your particular horses and situation.

Fence/Ramm Flex-Fence - General Fencing - What is the most visible fence color for horses?

It has long been debated as to which colors horses can actually see. At RAMM, we have found that fence color is not so much an issue, rather rail width and safer fencing alternatives. Most horses can easily move away from tree branches, tall weed patches, or anything that obstructs their path. Likewise, most horses will learn the boundary of their fenced pastures whether the color is white, black, or brown. These are colors that horses see in nature.

White is a traditional color that can make your area or farm appear larger. It makes a definite statement because it stands out against a natural background. If you are in an area with heavy snow, white fencing may not stand out as well. In areas like this, a combination of white and black rails may help.

Brown is a more subtle color and offers a natural look. It also coordinates well with tan and neutral barn and house colors. Dirt and mud are harder to see on brown fencing. Brown fencing also has more of a split-rail look. Black is classy, elegant and makes quite a rich statement. It has traditionally been used on large farms. Many farms choose black fencing for its visibility in snowy weather and tendency not to show dirt.

The bottom line is that horses can see any of these colors. Think about the structures on your property and the overall look you want to achieve, and choose the color that will work best on your farm. If you’re having trouble deciding, just call RAMM for a sample at 1.800.434.8456. Take a look at our fence product pages. Browsing some of our installed fences may help you decide which fence color is right for you.

Fence/PVC Horse Fence - PVC Fence - How can I clean PVC fence?

Pro-Tek PVC is a low maintenance fence system, however, you may want to follow these basic tips to keep your fencing looking it's best. Cleaning for Normal Maintenance: To clean PVC, mix the following solution: * 1 Cup liquid laundry detergent * 2 Cups household cleaner (i.e Mr. Clean) * 1 Gallon Water You may also use denatured alcohol, which is available at most home remodeling stores. Apply the solution generously and clean as you would any other product exposed to outdoor elements. A pressure washer will make quick work of applying the solution. Rinse thoroughly. Cleaning of Scratches: To clean the dirt out of scratches, use a damp sponge with a dab of Soft Scrub. Gently rub in the direction of the scratch, being careful not to rub too hard. Rubbing too hard could harm the finish of the product. IMPORTANT: We recommend that you DO NOT use acetone or thinner for cleaning purposes, as you may damage the product.