adding chicken wire to fence

Adding Chicken Wire to Your Fence A Guide to Enhanced Security and Functionality

Fences are essential for defining property boundaries, providing security, and keeping pets and livestock safe. However, sometimes the existing fences may not be sufficient to meet all your needs. Adding chicken wire to your fence can be an effective solution to enhance its functionality. Let’s explore why you should consider this modification and how to properly implement it.

Why Use Chicken Wire?

Chicken wire is a type of fencing made from thin, flexible wire, typically arranged in a hexagonal pattern. It is commonly used for enclosing chickens, but its applications extend far beyond poultry. One of the primary reasons to add chicken wire to your fence is its ability to keep smaller animals out. If you have a garden, for instance, integrating chicken wire can protect your plants from rabbits, squirrels, and other critters that might cause damage.

Additionally, chicken wire can serve as a barrier to prevent pets from escaping. Dogs and cats, especially smaller breeds, can easily slip through the spaces in traditional fences. By attaching chicken wire to the lower sections of your fence, you can create a secure environment for your pets without the need for extensive redesigning of your existing fence structure.

How to Add Chicken Wire to Your Fence

1. Materials Needed To effectively add chicken wire to your fence, gather the following materials chicken wire of appropriate gauge, wire cutters, staples, a staple gun, or zip ties, and possibly fence posts for reinforcements if necessary.

2. Measure Your Fence Begin by measuring the sections of the fence where you plan to add chicken wire. Knowing the dimensions will help you determine how much wire you need to purchase. Generally, it’s a good idea to have a little extra on hand to account for mistakes or miscalculations.

3. Prepare the Fence Before attaching the chicken wire, inspect your existing fence for any damage or weaknesses. Repairing these areas will ensure that the structure can support the additional wire and maintain its integrity.

4. Attach the Chicken Wire Starting from one end of the fence, unroll the chicken wire and secure it to the existing fence using staples or zip ties. Make sure to pull the wire taut to avoid sagging. If needed, you can add additional fence posts for extra support, particularly in larger areas or where the ground is uneven.

5. Secure the Bottom Pay special attention to the bottom edge of the chicken wire. Digging animals often try to burrow under fences. To prevent this, bury a few inches of the wire below ground level, or bend the bottom foot outward along the ground to create a barrier.

6. Finishing Touches Once the chicken wire is securely attached, consider painting or treating it to match the color of your existing fence, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, ensure there are no sharp edges sticking out that could cause injury to animals or people.

Conclusion

Integrating chicken wire with your existing fence is a straightforward and cost-effective way to increase security for your property. Whether you are protecting your garden from pests or preventing pets from escaping, chicken wire can offer peace of mind. With a little effort and the right materials, you can enhance your fencing solution, making it both functional and protective. Happy fencing!