The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Plastic Chicken Fence.

Keeping chickens safe and secure is a top priority for many chicken owners. One way to protect your flock is by using a plastic chicken fence.

In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about using a plastic chicken fence to protect your chickens.

What is a Plastic Chicken Fence?

A plastic chicken fence is a type of fencing material made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. It is durable, lightweight, and flexible, making it an ideal choice for chicken fencing. The plastic material is resistant to weathering, rotting, and fading, ensuring that it will last for years.

Advantages of a Plastic Chicken Fence

There are several advantages to using a plastic chicken fence over other types of fencing materials:

1. Cost-effective: Plastic chicken fence is generally less expensive than other types of fencing materials, such as wood or metal.
2. Easy to install: Plastic chicken fence is lightweight and easy to install, making it a great choice for DIY projects.
3. Flexible: The flexibility of plastic chicken fence makes it easy to work with and maneuver around obstacles.
4. Low maintenance: Plastic chicken fence requires minimal maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a garden hose.
5. Long-lasting: The durable plastic material ensures that the fence will last for many years, even in harsh weather conditions.

Uses for a Plastic Chicken Fence

A plastic chicken fence can be used for a variety of purposes:

1. Enclosing a Chicken Run: One of the most common uses for a plastic chicken fence is to enclose a chicken run. By creating a fenced area for your chickens, you can keep them safe from predators and ensure that they don’t wander off.
2. Protecting Garden Beds: Chickens can be great foragers, but they can also cause damage to garden beds. By using a plastic chicken fence, you can keep your chickens out of your garden while still allowing them to forage in designated areas.
3. Creating a Temporary Fence: Plastic chicken fence is also great for creating a temporary fence. For example, if you need to keep your chickens in a specific area while you work on their coop, you can use a plastic chicken fence to create a temporary enclosure.

Installing a Plastic Chicken Fence

Installing a plastic chicken fence is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Measure the Area: The first step is to measure the area you want to enclose. This will help you determine how much fencing material you will need.
2. Purchase the Fencing Material: Once you have measured the area, you can purchase the plastic chicken fence material. Make sure to buy enough fencing material to fully enclose the area.
3. Install Posts: Next, install posts around the perimeter of the area. You can use metal T-posts or wooden stakes. Make sure the posts are sturdy and evenly spaced.
4. Attach the Fencing Material: Once the posts are in place, you can attach the plastic chicken fence material to the posts. Use zip ties or wire to secure the fencing material to the posts.
5. Add Gates: Finally, if you need to create a gate for the fence, you can use gate hinges and a latch to attach the fencing material to the posts.

Tips for Maintaining Plastic Chicken Fencing

Although plastic chicken fencing is durable and weather-resistant, it still requires regular maintenance to ensure its effectiveness. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your plastic chicken fencing:

1. Check the fencing regularly for holes or tears. Even the smallest hole can be an entry point for predators.
2. Remove any debris or vegetation that may accumulate around the fencing. This can weaken the fence or create hiding places for predators.
3. Make sure the fencing is securely attached to the stakes or posts. Loose fencing can be easily pushed down by predators.
4. Keep the area around the fencing well-trimmed. Tall grass or shrubs can give predators cover and make it easier for them to attack your chickens.

Drawbacks of Plastic Chicken Fencing

1. Limited Durability: While plastic chicken fences are known for their durability, they are not as strong as other materials such as wood or metal. They can be easily damaged by strong winds, falling debris, or animal attacks. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures can cause the plastic to become brittle and crack over time.
2. Limited Lifespan: Due to their limited durability, plastic chicken fences have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. They may need to be replaced more frequently, which can be costly and time-consuming.
3. Limited Security: While plastic chicken fences can provide a physical barrier to keep chickens contained, they may not be as secure as other materials. Determined predators such as dogs, raccoons, or coyotes can easily chew through the plastic or push it down to gain access to the chickens.
4. Limited Aesthetics: Plastic chicken fences may not be as visually appealing as other materials such as wood or metal. They may not blend in with the surrounding environment or fit in with the style of the property.
5. Limited Flexibility: Plastic chicken fences are not as flexible as other materials, which can make them difficult to install on uneven terrain or around obstacles such as trees or rocks. This can limit their versatility and effectiveness in certain areas.
6. Limited Customization: Plastic chicken fences come in pre-made sizes and shapes, which can limit the ability to customize them to fit specific needs or preferences. This can also limit the ability to expand or adjust the fence in the future.

Conclusion

Plastic chicken fencing is an affordable and effective solution for keeping your backyard chickens safe and contained. It’s lightweight, flexible, and easy to install, making it a great option for both permanent and temporary enclosures. By following the steps outlined in this article and maintaining your fencing regularly, you can provide a safe and secure environment for your feathered friends.