Cattle farmers require specialized equipment to keep animals safe on their property. Cattle guards are one essential piece of this puzzle. If you have ever noticed a section of a driveway or property line that looks like it is made of steel piping, you may have already come into contact with these devices. If you’re unfamiliar with how they work or why they’re important, use the following guide to learn more.

What Are Cattle Guards?

A cattle guard is a flat structure made of steel piping that separates two pieces of land. The piping is laid over a depression in the ground and is designed to prevent cattle from exiting the property in spots where fencing or other barriers cannot be installed. They are often installed across driveways to allow for cars and farm equipment to pass through.

How Do They Work?

Cattle guards are installed over a section of driveway or walkway that has been dug out so that the steel piping can lay flush with the rest of the ground. This allows people and vehicles to pass through without trouble.

However, the pipes are spaced far enough apart that a herd of cattle cannot walk over them without their legs slipping through. Cows also have limited depth perception and are unsure of how to navigate such spaces. This keeps them safely enclosed within a property and away from neighboring or dangerous land.

What Are the Benefits of Steel Cattle Guards?

Not only are cattle guards useful for herding livestock in one area, but they are also beneficial for humans. Installing them over driveways provides easy access and keeps people from having to constantly exit their vehicles to open gates. 

Steel piping is the perfect material for this type of structure because of its strength and durability. It can bear enough weight for large trucks and farming equipment to pass through regularly, and the material can stand up against the elements for years. You can also install removable pieces that allow you to clear out debris from under the guard.

If you need steel piping for cattle guards or other purposes, turn to Pipe Plus Inc. in Willow Springs, MO. This metal fabricator offers custom pipes created to each customer's exact specifications. They also use quality materials that are made to withstand the rigors of farm life. In addition to cattle guards, they can also fabricate steel for grain bins and metal building structures. Visit them online to see a full list of services, or call (417) 469-5292 to speak with a friendly team member.