Stiff Stay

Shop our range of stiff stay fencing wire — essential vertical wire stays used in hinge joint and ring lock rural fencing to maintain even spacing between horizontal wires and prevent stock from pushing through or bending the fence.

Stiff Stay Fencing Wire — Buying Guide

What Is a Stiff Stay?

A stiff stay is a vertical length of heavier-gauge wire that is woven into horizontal wire mesh fencing (such as hinge joint or ring lock) at fixed intervals between the knot wires. Stays stiffen the mesh panel, maintain uniform aperture spacing, and prevent livestock from bending or pushing the mesh out of shape. They are a standard component of high-quality Australian agricultural wire fencing, particularly for sheep, cattle and deer fencing.

Why Are Stiff Stays Important?

  • Structural integrity — maintains the shape and aperture size of the mesh under livestock pressure
  • Prevents bulging — stops cattle, sheep and goats from pushing the fence out of line
  • Extends fence life — a well-stiffened fence panel holds its shape and tension for longer, reducing maintenance
  • Improves livestock containment — consistent aperture sizing prevents livestock from pushing heads through and becoming stuck

Stiff Stay Specifications

Stiff stays are available in various lengths to match the height of the wire mesh being used. They are typically made from heavier gauge plain wire than the horizontal wires in the mesh. Stiff stay spacing (the distance between vertical stays) varies by mesh type — common spacings are 150mm, 200mm and 300mm. More closely spaced stays provide greater resistance to livestock pressure but increase the cost of the mesh. Check the specific product specifications when ordering.

Applications

Stiff stay mesh is widely used for sheep and cattle grazing paddock fencing, deer fencing, horse paddock boundaries (where hinge joint is used), and general rural property boundary fencing. The stiff stay design is particularly valuable in areas with high livestock pressure, rough handling or where large numbers of animals congregate near fence lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hinge joint mesh with and without stiff stays?
Mesh without stiff stays is more flexible and lighter, while mesh with stiff stays is stiffer and better resists deformation under livestock pressure. Stiff stay mesh is preferred for permanent rural fencing under high livestock pressure.

Can stiff stay wire be cut on site?
Stiff stay wire can be cut with quality wire cutters, bolt cutters or fencing pliers fitted with wire-cutting jaws.

Order Stiff Stay Fencing Wire Online — Australia-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast dispatch across Australia. Contact our team for advice on mesh types, stay spacings and quantities for your rural fencing project. We supply farmers, graziers and fencing contractors nationwide.