Can I Use Board & Rail Fencing for Horses or Cattle?

December 18, 2025
Board and rail fencing (often called "Plank Fencing") is the quintessential look for rural properties in Montgomery and Harris Counties. It is beautiful, traditional, and sturdy. But is it the right choice for containing heavy livestock like cattle or spirited horses?

The answer is yes, but the construction method is vital. Unlike a residential privacy fence, a livestock fence must be built to withstand "pressure."


H2: Using Board and Rail for Horses


Horses are visual animals. They need a fence they can easily see to prevent them from running into it. Board and rail is excellent for this. We recommend using a 3-rail or 4-rail system with 1"x6" treated boards. Pro Tip: Always install the boards on the inside of the posts. This way, if a horse leans or pushes against the fence, the post supports the board instead of the nails or screws taking all the pressure.


H2: Using Board and Rail for Cattle



Cattle tend to "rub" and put massive amounts of pressure on a fence. While board and rail can work, we often recommend adding a single strand of electric wire or "hot wire" to the top or middle rail. This discourages the cattle from leaning on the fence and prevents them from breaking the boards over time.

The Ultimate Seasonal Fence Maintenance Checklist for Texas

December 18, 2025
In Texas, our weather is extreme. To get 20+ years out of your fence, you need to perform a quick 15-minute inspection every season to catch small problems before they become major expenses. Keep Your Fence in Top Shape — Book a Professional Tune-Up Spring and Fall Tasks Spring: Check for winter storm damage and ensure your gate hinges are lubricated. Fall: Clear away dead leaves and debris from the bottom of wood fences to prevent moisture trapping. Check your stain for "fading" and plan for re-coating if the wood is no longer repelling water.

Fence Repair vs. Replacement: Cost and Value Comparison

December 18, 2025
Should you fix that leaning section or tear the whole thing down? For many homeowners, the "fix-it" approach seems cheaper, but it may actually be a waste of money if the structural integrity of the entire line is compromised. Get a Professional Assessment — Schedule Your Inspection The 20% Rule As a general rule of thumb, if more than 20% of your fence requires repair, a full replacement is usually more cost-effective in the long run. Patchwork repairs often lead to a "Frankenstein" look and don't address the underlying issues like rotted posts or failing footings.

Fence Contractors in Conroe, TX: Your Local Service Guide

December 18, 2025
As Conroe continues to grow, homeowners need reliable contractors who can handle everything from standard residential wood to complex commercial iron projects near Lake Conroe. Secure Your Conroe Property — Get a Free Fence Estimate Serving All of Conroe From the downtown historic district to the new developments along 105, we provide high-quality installations that stand the test of time. We understand the specific wind-load requirements near the lake and use materials designed to handle the moisture.