Understanding Width, Conductors, and Durability

Choosing the Right Poly Tape
When selecting the best poly tape for your electric fence, there are several key factors to consider that directly impact the tape's performance: width, number of conductors, and the type of stainless steel used. Each of these factors plays a critical role in ensuring the tape delivers consistent, reliable performance based on your unique fencing requirements.

Width of Poly Tape

The width of the poly tape is more than just a visual characteristic; it also affects how visible the tape is to your livestock and how durable the tape will be in the field. Wider poly tapes are typically more visible to animals, making them less likely to challenge the fence. Additionally, wider tape generally offers better durability, especially in high-wind areas, as it resists sagging and breakage.

  • 1” Poly Tape: A lightweight option for smaller enclosures or temporary fencing setups. It provides enough visibility to deter livestock while being budget-friendly and easy to handle.
  • 1.5” Poly Tape: A mid-range choice that balances visibility, strength, and flexibility. Ideal for medium to larger enclosures, this width offers increased durability and visibility over long distances.
  • 2” Poly Tape: Best for large enclosures or permanent fencing, 2" tape offers the highest visibility and is designed to withstand the elements over extended periods. This is a great option for livestock that tends to challenge boundaries.

Number of Conductors

The number of conductors—wires embedded in the poly tape that carry the electric charge—directly affects the strength and reliability of the shock delivered to your fence. More conductors mean better current flow and more consistent electrical performance, especially over long distances. This becomes increasingly important as the fence line extends or when dealing with larger, more stubborn livestock.

  • 7 Conductors: Best suited for smaller or medium-sized fences where the electric current doesn’t need to travel far. This setup provides enough shock for most everyday fencing needs.
  • 10-13 Conductors: Ideal for medium to larger enclosures, these tapes provide a stronger, more reliable current over greater distances. If your fence runs longer, having more conductors ensures that the power stays strong throughout.
  • 15-18 Conductors: These tapes are designed for long-distance fencing and tougher livestock. The higher number of conductors ensures minimal power loss over longer distances, making them perfect for larger setups and more aggressive or persistent animals.

Type of Stainless Steel

The quality and thickness of the stainless steel used in poly tape conductors also plays a critical role in performance. Higher-grade stainless steel ensures better conductivity and durability, reducing the risk of corrosion over time. Our tapes are made with high-grade stainless steel, designed to withstand the elements and deliver consistent performance even in harsh conditions.

  • 7 Mil Steel: A solid performer for most general fencing setups. It offers good conductivity while maintaining flexibility and ease of handling.
  • 12 Mil Steel: Thicker, more durable, and better suited for long-term, heavy-duty use. Ideal for larger farms or enclosures where toughness and reliability are crucial.

Other Factors to Consider

  • Durability: For fencing that will be exposed to extreme weather or requires long-term use, opting for thicker, high-conductor poly tape ensures it will last longer and continue to perform consistently.
  • Visibility: Wider poly tapes offer increased visibility, which is particularly important for larger animals or in areas where visual deterrence is a primary concern.
  • Ease of Installation: Thinner poly tapes with fewer conductors tend to be lighter and easier to handle, making them ideal for temporary fencing setups or smaller farms.

Which Tape is Right for You?

The best poly tape for your fencing project depends on the size of your enclosure, the type of livestock you’re containing, and the environmental conditions your fence will face.

  • For small enclosures or temporary setups, 1” tape with 7-7 conductors will likely meet your needs.
  • For medium to large enclosures or farms with tougher livestock, consider 1.5” tape with 10-15 conductors for added strength and visibility.
  • If you need a long-term, durable solution for large enclosures, especially with larger or more determined livestock, 2” tape with 15-18 conductors and thicker steel is the best choice.

By balancing width, number of conductors, and the type of steel used, you can ensure that your fencing solution meets the specific needs of your farm while offering reliable performance for years to come.