Five Reasons to Not Use Perma Pole on Your Horse Property 

Fencing plays a very important role in keeping your horses safe and contained on the property. While all horses are precious, if you have thoroughbred or racing horses then several other conditions come into play.  

Imagine investing a huge amount of money, time and effort into horse fencing only to face a series of unexpected problems. That’s exactly what happened to one of our clients who used Perma Pole in his horse yards. The outcome? A staggering $6,000 in fines due to arsenic from the timber treatment showed up in pre-race swab tests. This shocking experience serves as a crucial reminder of why it’s essential to choose fencing solutions that have proven their safety and superior quality.  

If you’re currently using or considering Perma Pole for your horse fencing project, you might want to rethink your choice. 

At Stock & Noble, we’ve been in the fencing business long enough to understand the critical importance of both quality and safety. Our flagship products like Premium Steel Post and Rail and Horserail stand out as reliable, durable, safe and aesthetically pleasing horse fencing solutions for decades.  

In this blog, we’ll explain why Perma Pole might not be the best option for your horse fencing needs and how choosing a better-quality fence will help avoid costly issues and enhance your property’s value. 

By the end of this post, you’ll know the drawbacks of Perma Pole fencing and will be able to weigh whether it’s the right choice or not. You’ll gain insight into how switching to a high-quality fencing solution can save you from unexpected fines, maintenance headaches, and potential safety issues for your horses.  

Problem #1: Arsenic Exposure 

Perma Pole fencing is treated with chemicals to prevent decay, but one of the key substances used in the treatment process is arsenic. Arsenic is a toxic element known for its harmful effects on both human health, animals and the environment. While the treatment process helps in increasing the life of timber, it, unfortunately, comes with risks that are not always immediately obvious. 

Why It’s a Concern:  

Arsenic is highly toxic and can seep out of treated wood over time. This can contaminate your soil and water, posing health risks for your horses and the surrounding environment. For horses, exposure to arsenic can cause serious health problems, including poisoning and long-term organ damage. If arsenic is found in swab tests before a race, you could face fines, just like our client did. This can disrupt your plans and lead to unexpected costs.

Problem #2: Durability Concerns 

Perma Pole wood is treated to resist decay, but it’s not foolproof. Over time, the wood can still develop durability issues that weaken the fence. 

Why It’s a Concern:  

Even though the treatment helps, it doesn’t completely protect the wood from the wear and tear that comes with exposure to the elements. Perma Pole fencing can warp, crack, and splinter. These problems not only weaken the fence but also increase maintenance costs. Warping can cause the fence to become misaligned, leading to gaps and weaknesses.  

Problem #3: Safety Risks for Horses 

Safety is a top priority when it comes to horse fencing. Perma Pole fencing, while initially effective, can develop safety issues over time that put your horses at risk. 

Why It’s a Concern:  

As Perma Pole fencing ages, it can develop cracks and splinters. These imperfections create sharp edges that can cause injuries to your horses. Even minor injuries can turn into serious health issues, potentially requiring veterinary intervention and causing unnecessary stress for your animals.   

It’ll be worth learning about 12 ways to prevent horse injuries at your equine property. 

Problem #4: Environmental Impact 

The environmental impact is often overlooked when choosing fencing materials. The chemical treatment of Perma Pole raises serious problems for our planet. 

Why It’s a Concern:  

The chemicals used to treat Perma Pole wood can seep into the soil over time, potentially contaminating the surrounding environment. This contamination can harm local wildlife and plants, affecting the overall health of the ecosystem. The chemicals can degrade soil quality, disrupt plant growth, and harm animals that come into contact with the affected area. This kind of environmental damage can have lasting effects, far beyond your property. 

Problem #5: Aesthetics and Property Value 

The way your fencing looks plays a big role in the overall appearance and ROI of your property. Unfortunately, Perma Pole fencing can lose its appeal over time. 

Why It’s a Concern:  

As Perma Pole fencing ages, it can start to look run-down. Problems like peeling paint, warping, and general wear and tear can make the fence look shabby and uncared for. This doesn’t just hurt the visual appeal of your property—it can also lower its value. When a fence looks old and worn, it gives the impression that the property isn’t well-maintained, which can turn off potential buyers or guests.  

The solution to the Problems Caused by Perma Pole 

Consider switching to hardwood, Premium steel, Horserail, or other premium-quality fencing options. Unlike Perma Pole, these materials avoid the risks associated with chemical treatments. 

• Safe and Chemical-Free: Premium fencing options like hardwood, steel, and Horserail don’t involve harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of environmental contamination and protecting your horses’ health.

• Durable: High-quality hardwood, Stock & Noble’s Premium steel fencing, and Horserail are designed to withstand the elements without losing their integrity. These materials resist warping, cracking, and splintering, leading to a more reliable and long-lasting fence that requires less maintenance over time.  

• Safe: Hardwood, Premium steel, and Horserail fencing provide smooth surfaces without sharp edges, minimising the risk of injuries to your horses. The solid construction of these fences ensures that your horses stay safe and secure.  

• Environmentally Friendly: Steel is 100% recyclable, and hardwood from sustainably managed forests offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemically treated wood. Horserail, made from high-tensile wire and polyethylene, is also a sustainable option that requires minimal upkeep and is safe for the environment. Choosing these materials supports environmental preservation and aligns with responsible practices. 

Always check with your supplier and make sure your steel fence is designed for horses. Learn more about the difference between Cattle rail and Premium Steel horse fences. 

By opting for premium materials like hardwood, steel, or Horserail, you’re making a smart investment that offers long-term benefits, including safety, durability, and environmental responsibility. 

Is Perma Pole Right Horse Fence for Your Property? 

When it comes to choosing the right fencing for your horse property, safety, durability, and environmental impact are key factors to consider.  

Perma Pole might seem like an easy and cheaper option, but it comes with some serious drawbacks—like the risk of arsenic exposure, durability issues, and potential safety risks for your horses. Over time, these issues can lead to unexpected costs and headaches, not to mention the impact on your property’s appearance and value. 

Based on the experiences of equine property owners, one of the biggest concerns with Perma Pole is its chemical treatment process, which involves harmful substances like arsenic. Exposure to such toxins can lead to various health problems for your animals and can also turn up in swab tests. Unfortunately resulting in costly veterinary care and ongoing health concerns.  

Instead of dealing with these problems, you can choose better alternatives.  

High-quality fencing options like hardwood, Premium steel, or Horserail offer you peace of mind. They don’t involve harmful chemicals, so you’re not risking your horses’ health or the environment. Plus, they’re built to last, reducing the need for constant maintenance and repairs. 

Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you want a fence that merely serves its purpose for now or one that stands the test of time, providing peace of mind and preserving the value of your property for years to come.  

By making a thoughtful investment in high-quality, chemical-free fencing, you’re not only protecting your horses but also safeguarding your property’s future. 

So, before you settle for less, consider what really matters: the safety and well-being of your horses and the long-term value of your property. Digging into a detailed comparison of which post and rail fencing would be best for your horse property, will further help you choose the right product. 

If you have more questions on cost, installation or suitability of a premium fencing solution, reach out to our experts. They will help you create a safe and beautiful equine property, just the way you imagined.