In The Pasture
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Livestock Panels
At Colonial Corrals, we know how much you depend on your livestock panels to keep your animals safe and your property running smoothly. But even the toughest equipment has a lifespan. Over time, exposure to the elements and daily wear and tear can weaken your panels. This can put both your animals and your investment at risk. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to upgrade, read on. We’ve put together a list of key signs to watch for.
1. Visible Rust and Corrosion
Surface rust may not seem like a big deal at first, but once corrosion begins to eat into the steel, it weakens the entire panel. Rusted sections are more likely to bend or break under pressure, putting your livestock at risk. At Colonial Corrals, we use 14-gauge, 1-5/8” American tubular steel for unbeatable strength and durability, helping you avoid these issues from the start.
2. Bent or Warped Frames
If your panels no longer hold their shape, they can quickly become a liability. Warped frames may not line up properly with gates or connectors, and bent rails can create gaps or sharp edges that are dangerous for your animals. If you’re having to adjust and reinforce old panels over and over, it may be time to invest in quality replacements.
3. Loose or Broken Welds
Once a weld begins to separate, the entire panel loses its structural integrity. These breaks often occur in high-stress areas and can lead to total failure if not addressed. With 15 years of hands-on experience, we know where panels take the most abuse, and we reinforce them accordingly. Plus, every panel we build comes with a 5-year workmanship warranty for peace of mind.
4. Hardware That Doesn’t Hold
Missing pins, damaged hinges or connectors that no longer hold tight are all signs your panel system needs attention. These issues might start small, but over time they make your entire setup harder to manage and more likely to fail when you need it most.
5. Outdated or Incompatible Layouts
Sometimes the issue isn’t damage – it’s design. If your operation has grown or changed over the years, your original panels might not meet your current needs. We offer fully customizable livestock panels built to your exact specifications, so you get the right fit for your animals, application and property.
When it’s time to replace, you can trust Colonial Corrals to deliver strong and reliable solutions that perform year after year. Reach out to learn more about our custom panels, easy delivery options and commitment to quality that’s backed by experience and a solid warranty.
