Everything You Need to Know About Cattle Rail - Steel Post and Rail Fencing 

Are you in the process of creating your dream property and exploring the various options for Steel Post and Rail Fencing in Australia? If you’re specifically interested in Cattle Rail fencing, then you’ve come to the right place. 

At Stock and Noble, we specialise in delivering premium fencing solutions to high-end property owners in Australia and New Zealand. Our flagship product, Premium Steel Post and Rail Fencing – Buckley, is globally recognized for its outstanding success and proven safety. With our extensive experience and expertise gained from client projects and industry experts, we possess comprehensive knowledge of the entire steel post and rail fence category. We aim to empower you with all the factual information to help you build a safe and beautiful property. 

In this article, we will provide you with a detailed exploration of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail fencing, covering everything you need to know to make an informed decision. 

Throughout this blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of Cattle Rail fencing: 

• What is Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing?
• Specifications of Cattle Rail  
• Design of Cattle Rail  
• What is the Primary Usage of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fences? 
• What are the Advantages of Cattle Rail: Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 
• What are the disadvantages of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fences? 
• Is Cattle Rail fencing easily available? 
• Where to Buy Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 
• How to install Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail fences? 
• What is the Cost of Cattle Rail- Steel Post and Rail Fences? 
• How to Maintain Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 

By the end of this comprehensive guide, you will have a thorough understanding of Cattle Rail, helping you to choose, buy, install and maintain this fencing perfectly on your property.   

What is Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 

Cattle Rail is a type of steel pipe or tubular fence that resembles a pipe or a tube. It is commonly used in agricultural settings, such as farm and ranch fencing, to contain large animals like cattle, horses, and sheep. It is renowned for its durability, ease of maintenance, and long-term cost-effectiveness. While it may have been the only option for steel fencing in the past, there are now premium steel post and rail fencing solutions available in the market. 

Specifications of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing 

Cattle Rail is typically available in 6-meter or 8-meter lengths, which can be cut and used as per specific requirements. 

The most common size for cattle rail is 115 mm x 42 mm wide, with a 2 mm wall thickness. 

It comes in pre-galvanised steel, without any painting or powder coating on top. 

The rails can be purchased individually or in bundles, and they are usually cut and welded to steel posts by fencing contractors. 

Design of Cattle Rail -  Steel Post and Rail Fencing 

Cattle Rail fences are steel grey and have a tubular shape.  

They can be cut to different sizes, offering options for 1, 2, 3, or 4 rail configurations. However, they do not come with any powder coating and require painting to enhance their appearance. Over time, pre-galvanised cattle rail fences may develop white rust, which affects their aesthetics but does not significantly impact their long-term corrosion performance. It’s important to note that Cattle Rail farm gates are typically not considered safe for horses. 

What is the Primary Usage of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fences? 

Cattle Rail is commonly used for a variety of purposes, including sheep yards, cattle yards, and even as front fences for acreage properties. 

It serves as an alternative to timber fencing in areas where the timber may not survive or in regions with harsh climates like Queensland and Western Australia. The broad spectrum of its applications makes it a popular choice for property owners looking for a durable and long-lasting fencing option. 

What are the Advantages of Cattle Rail: Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 

Consistent Appearance Over Time

Cattle Rail maintains a uniform appearance over the years, even with modifications or expansions. It is readily available and can easily match existing installations. 

Social Proof and Reliability

Cattle Rail has a proven track record and is widely used, instilling confidence in its effectiveness and reliability. 

Accessibility and Customisation

Cattle Rail is easy to obtain, and while customisation options may be somewhat limited, there are variations available for posts and rails to meet specific requirements. 

Freedom to Choose Colours

Cattle Rail can be painted in any desired colour, offering flexibility in matching the fence to the property’s aesthetics. 

Strength and Durability: Cattle Rail is known for its robustness and longevity. It can withstand agricultural use and is resistant to rot and damage caused by horses’ chewing habits. 

Enhanced Security

 Cattle Rail acts as a deterrent, enhancing the security of livestock by deterring unauthorised individuals. 

Longevity: With proper maintenance, Cattle Rail can have a long life of over 30 years. 

What are the disadvantages of Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fences? 

Limited Design Options

 Cattle Rail has limited design options and may not offer the same level of customisation as premium steel post and rail fencing. It is primarily focused on functionality rather than aesthetics. 

Maintenance Requirements

 While Cattle Rail is durable, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rust and ensure its longevity. This may include repainting or applying anti-rust coatings periodically. 

Limited Safety for Horses

 Cattle Rail may not be the safest option for enclosing horses, as as the rails have no ‘give’ and this rigidity often causes the horse injury upon impact. If you have horses, it’s recommended to consider alternative fencing options specifically designed for equine safety. 

Potential Corrosion

 Over time, Cattle Rail may develop rust and corrosion, especially in areas with high humidity or coastal environments. Regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to address any corrosion issues promptly. 

It will be worth learning all the pros and cons of Cattle Rail in detail before you move further with this fencing. 

Is Cattle Rail Fencing Easily Available? 

Cattle Rail is readily available in Australia, ensuring convenient access to all your fencing requirements. 

Bluescope and AustubeMills, two prominent steel companies, are key manufacturers of the raw materials used in Cattle Rail production. As a widely popular steel fencing option, Cattle Rail is considered a commodity, offering standardized sizing and reliable quality. 

When acquiring Cattle Rail, fencing contractors usually rely on local steel suppliers. These suppliers have the capacity to meet your specific requirements should you need to have the rail cut to length or baulk orders. 

Where to Buy Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 

When it comes to Cattle Rail, local steel suppliers in Australia typically offer competitive pricing and convenient logistics due to its high demand as a volume product. While imported options may sometimes be cheaper, they can compromise on quality and durability. Choosing Australian-made Cattle Rail is recommended to ensure long-lasting and reliable fencing. Prioritizing quality over price is crucial for a lasting investment. 

To ensure the best results, it is advisable to select an Australian supplier that follows industry standards such as AS/NZS 1163:2009 for cold-formed structural steel hollow sections and AS/NZS 4792:2006 for hot-dip galvanised coatings on ferrous hollow sections. 

Here are some reputable suppliers of Cattle Rail: 

InfraBuild: They have extensive distribution capabilities and provide Cattle Rail across Australia, ensuring accessibility and reliable service. 

Surdex Steel: A popular supplier, especially in the Eastern states of Australia, offering a range of steel products, including Cattle Rail. 

Muswellbrook Steel: Serving the Hunter Valley area and NSW, they specialize in supplying Cattle Rail to horse studs, providing personalized service and prompt delivery. 

Beaudesert Gates & Steel: Trusted distributor for clients in Southern Queensland who require Cattle Rail for their fencing projects. 

In addition to these options, connecting with local steel suppliers in your area or seeking recommendations from fencing contractors can also be beneficial. 

While Stock & Noble primarily focuses on premium steel post and rail fencing rather than Cattle Rail, we can provide guidance and assistance to meet your specific needs and ensure the best possible outcome for your fencing projects. 

For a successful fencing project, it’s important to learn how to navigate through the process of finding and buying the best Cattle Rail fencing in Australia. 

How to install Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail fences? 

Fencing contractors in Australia are highly skilled and proficient in installing Steel Pipe Fences. These fences are particularly convenient during delivery and installation due to their uncoated nature, making them easy to handle without concerns about scratches or cracks. 

However, due to the cutting and welding involved, it can be challenging to undertake this project as a do-it-yourself (DIY) endeavour. 

Nevertheless, if you possess prior experience with fence installation, you can explore resources on how to build and install Cattle Rail yourself. 

What is the Cost of Cattle Rail- Steel Post and Rail Fences? 

The cost of Cattle Rail can vary depending on factors such as the length of the rails, the number of rails, and the supplier. 

*This is an indicative cost. It is recommended to check with local suppliers or retailers for current pricing information. The price can differ based on terrain, location, size of the project and fencing installer. 

A detailed cost comparison of different types of post and rail fences can prove valuable in your decision-making process. 

How to Maintain Cattle Rail – Steel Post and Rail Fencing? 

Maintaining Cattle Rail is recommended for various reasons, including safety, security, longevity, aesthetics, cost-effectiveness, and compliance. 

By performing regular maintenance, you can prevent rust and accidents, ensure the proper containment of livestock, prolong the fence’s lifespan, enhance the appearance of your property, and avoid extensive repairs. 

Here are a few tips to help you get started: 

• Regularly inspect the fence for rust and apply a protective coating as needed. 
• Straighten and re-concrete any leaning posts as required. 
• Replace and re-weld any damaged rails as required.  
• Check gate hinges and latches for smooth operation and animal containment 

Learn the best practices to ensure proper care, address any damaged or lost components, and maintain the overall integrity of Cattle Rail fences.  

The most important aspect of maintaining Cattle Rail is the management of rust. If you want you can dig deeper into a detailed guide on treating and managing rust on Steel Post and rail Fences. 

Is Cattle Rail the Right Steel Post and Rail Fencing for my property? 

You wanted to know if Cattle Rail is the right fencing for your property. 

By following the information provided in this comprehensive guide, you now have a thorough understanding of Cattle Rail – steel post and rail fencing. From its specifications and primary usage to the advantages, disadvantages, availability, installation process, cost, and maintenance requirements, you are well-equipped to navigate the world of Cattle Rail fencing confidently. 

Overall, Cattle Rail is a durable and cost-effective option for enclosing livestock in agricultural settings. While it may lack certain aesthetic qualities and customisation options, it offers strength, reliability, and long-term performance.  The fencing industry has evolved, and there may be other options that better suit your requirements, especially the need for higher safety on equine properties. 

Remember, choosing the right fencing solution is a crucial investment for your property’s security, aesthetics, and functionality. Prioritise quality, consider your unique requirements and consult with reputable suppliers and fencing experts to ensure the best outcome for your fencing projects. Stock and Noble is here to assist you along the way. 

If aesthetics, horse safety, and low maintenance are significant factors for you, it’s worth exploring alternative steel post and rail fencing options that better align with your specific requirements. 

To make an informed decision, it’s recommended to learn about the key differences between Cattle Rail and Premium Steel post and rail fencing. This will ensure you choose the best steel fencing for your property while considering all important factors. 

Take the next step towards building a safe and beautiful property by reaching out to us. Whether you wish to discuss Cattle Rail, Premium Steel Post and Rail or other post and rail fencing. Our team is ready to provide personalised guidance and support in selecting the ideal fencing solution for your specific needs.