Keeping your chickens safe and secure is an important part of raising backyard poultry. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to do this is by installing a DIY chicken wire fence around their coop and run area. With a few simple tools and materials, you can build a sturdy fence that will keep your feathered friends safe from predators while still allowing them to roam and forage.
You may also want to read about the best chicken fences.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a DIY chicken wire fence:
Step 1: Determine the size of your fence Before you begin, measure the area you want to enclose and determine how much chicken wire you’ll need. It’s always a good idea to add a little extra to your measurements to account for any mistakes or changes you might make along the way.
Step 2: Gather your materials Once you have your measurements, it’s time to gather your materials. You’ll need chicken wire (also known as poultry netting), wooden stakes, and zip ties or wire cutters.
Step 3: Install the wooden stakes Using a mallet or hammer, pound the wooden stakes into the ground at intervals of about 4-6 feet. The stakes should be placed along the perimeter of the area you want to enclose.
Step 4: Attach the chicken wire to the stakes Unroll the chicken wire and stretch it along the length of the fence line. Starting at one end, attach the chicken wire to the first stake using zip ties or wire cutters. Make sure the wire is taut and not sagging.
Step 5: Continue attaching the chicken wire to the stakes Continue attaching the chicken wire to each stake along the fence line. Make sure the wire is secured tightly to each stake to prevent it from sagging or coming loose.
Step 6: Trim any excess chicken wire Once you’ve attached the chicken wire to all the stakes, trim any excess wire using wire cutters. Be sure to leave a little extra at the end of the fence line to secure the chicken wire to the last stake.
Step 7: Secure the chicken wire to the last stake Wrap the chicken wire around the last stake and secure it with zip ties or wire cutters. Make sure the wire is taut and not sagging.
Step 8: Add a gate (optional) If you want to add a gate to your fence, you can do so by creating a frame out of wood and attaching chicken wire to it. Attach the gate frame to the wooden stakes using hinges and a latch.
Step 9: Inspect your fence Once you’ve completed the fence, inspect it carefully to make sure there are no gaps or areas where predators could enter. If you find any weak spots, reinforce them with additional zip ties or wire cutters.
Tips for Building a DIY Chicken Wire Fence
- Wear gloves when handling the chicken wire to protect your hands from cuts and scratches.
- When measuring the fence line, make sure to account for the size of your chicken coop and any other structures that may be inside the fence line.
- Use wooden stakes and string to mark the fence line before installing T-posts to ensure a straight and even fence.
- To prevent predators from digging under the fence, bury the excess wire in the ground and make sure the bottom of the fence is flush with the ground.
- Consider adding a gate to your fence to make it easier to access the chicken coop and to clean the area inside the fence.
Conclusion
And there you have it! A simple and effective DIY chicken wire fence that will keep your chickens safe and secure. By following these easy steps, you can build a fence that will protect your flock while allowing them to enjoy their natural behaviors and foraging instincts.