The Fence Post

Maintaining the Safety of your Chickens, Rabbits, Canaries, Ferrets and other Small Animals

Animals come in all shapes and sizes. So do the welded and woven wire fences and meshes used to enclose them. The kind of mesh you use makes a difference. The following recommendations can help you make the right choice.

Poultry: Your Pen Predator-proofed

Hexagonal netting, also known as hex net and chicken wire, is the ideal product to use. This fence is available in these finishes:

• GBW (galvanized before - 20 gauge)
• GAW (galvanized after - heavier 18 gauge), and black
• VC (vinyl coated - 20 gauge "core" wire) 

VC and GAW meshes are thoroughly protected from rust and corrosion and last the longest. Rolls are 150' long and come in 12", 18", 24", 30", 36", 48", 60" 72", 84" and 90" widths. The 1" hex opening makes a secure and predator-proof fence for your birds. The black vinyl coating is virtually invisible from a distance so you can easily see them.

And for Canaries

Canary cages can be built using 1/2" hexagonal woven netting. This lightweight 23 gauge GAW woven mesh is the recommended product to use. Rolls available are 48" wide and 25', 50' and 150' long. Small 1/2" mesh keeps the birds safe. The thin wire mesh lets you see the birds.

Rabbits, Ferrets, and Other Small Animals

Welded wire meshes are used to make rabbit cages and hutches. 16 gauge, 1/2" x 1" is the ideal mesh size to use for flooring. Widths available - 12", 15", 18", 24", 30", 36", 48", 60" and 72". GAW finish is recommended due to its ability to stand up to the corrosive effects of rabbit urine. 14 gauge, 1" x 2" mesh is the perfect size for the sides and top. GBW wire can be used for these panels. These products will keep your rabbits and other small animals safe and secure.

Other meshes are also available that can be used to make cages and pens for larger animals such as:

• Apron fence for beagle training pens
• Woven diamond mesh and 2" x 4" mesh for horses
• Woven deer and wildlife fence

Fences and meshes are available for any type of animal enclosure.

Which One Shall I Choose?

There are many different wire fence products available from which to choose. And it can be difficult to know which one to buy. One of the decisions you will need to make is whether you want a galvanized fence or a mesh that is vinyl coated.

Some differences between galvanized and vinyl coated wire mesh and fence?

Galvanized fences and meshes are either welded or woven. There are Galvanized Before Weld or Weave (GBW) and Galvanized After Weld or Weave (GAW) meshes. The difference between these two types is explained in our blog "Galvanized Before vs Galvanized After Mesh & Fence". The most common and most readily available fence meshes are GBW. These are the commodity meshes sold by all the big box stores. GAW products are:

• harder to find
• they are higher quality
• more expensive 
• they will last years longer

Both share the same characteristic of having a galvanized finish. But GAW meshes are far superior.

Vinyl Coated (VC) fences are also available in either welded or woven meshes. They are different from galvanized products because they have a double layer of protection from rust and corrosion - vinyl coating over previously galvanized wire. This gives these meshes an even longer life. The highest quality and longest lasting products with the best rust protection are those that feature vinyl coating on top of GAW wire. These are the meshes used in such things as lobster pots and crawfish traps.

Why are vinyl coated meshes more expensive?

The cost of the vinyl applied to the wire adds to the cost of the final product. Additional handling and processing during the manufacturing process also add to the cost.

And vinyl coated fence, is it really worth the extra expense?                                                              Meshes and fences that have been vinyl coated have the longest lifetime due to the extra protection they have against rust and corrosion.

What about how it looks?

They are also more aesthetically pleasing. The black and green color stand out less than the brighter galvanized finish. In fact, black mesh tends to disappear into the background, becoming virtually invisible. You can see whatever is on the other side of the fence more clearly.

It is also important to remember that although the initial cost of a vinyl coated fence is higher, it may ultimately be less expensive. Don't forget the cost and aggravation of needing to replace a product with a shorter lifetime.

The choice between galvanized and vinyl coated fence

Think about how long you want the fence to last. How frequently will you want to replace it? If you want a fence that will last a long time and maintain its nice appearance, go with the vinyl coated mesh. If you only need the fence to last a few years, use a GBW mesh.

Again, consider aesthetics--

Think about how you want the fence to look. If the fence will be in a prominent place and you want it to look attractive, use a vinyl coated mesh. If the fence will be less visible and you don't mind a utilitarian appearance, use a GBW mesh. You can also use a GAW mesh if you want the fence to last longer.

And if you need further clarification, please don't hesitate to call us and ask questions--(866) 328-5018

Why is vinyl coated wire mesh and fence so desirable?

Welded and woven wire meshes that are vinyl coated will last a long time. This is especially true for fences with a thick coating of PVC bonded to the wire by a heat process. Though more expensive initially, the extended lifetime and the reduced hassle and frequency of replacement and repair of these meshes can make them more cost-effective in the long run. Good quality vinyl coated products have the following characteristics:

• The vinyl is tough, flexible and abrasion resistant.
• The coating will not crack when the wire is bent.
• It retains these qualities across a wide temperature range.
• If the PVC has UV inhibitors, the coating will resist degradation from sunlight.
• The vinyl gives meshes and fences superior resistance to weathering and chemical  exposure.
• There are no sharp or rough edges to cut people or animals.
• Vinyl coated wire fences are attractive and easy on the eyes.
• The black color is virtually invisible when installed - your fence won't block your view.

These products can be used for...

Vinyl coated wire meshes and fences are available in many different gauges and mesh sizes. The lighter gauges and smaller meshes are available in rolls. They can be used for:

• aviaries and small animal cages
• crawfish traps and crab pots
• barriers to prevent nuisance wildlife from gaining entrance to your house
• ground wire to keep burrowing animals out of your garden and lawn areas

Heavier gauges and larger meshes come in rolls. In some cases, they can be special ordered in panels. These meshes can be used for:

• attractive strong fences for your yard and garden
• play yards for children
• long lasting flooring for dog kennels
• greenhouse benches
• lobster traps
• tennis courts
• pet containment
• turtle barrier fences
• wire panel inserts for deck railings
• swimming pool fences that meet safety codes
• heavy duty security fences

When should you consider using vinyl coated wire mesh and fence?

• When you need a product that looks attractive.
• When you want it to last for years.
• When you need a mesh that will be resistant to harsh chemicals.
• When you want a superior product.

 

 

A Protected Garden makes for a Happy Gardener

There are many different wire meshes that make excellent garden fencing. Fences that will protect your gardens from the ravages of animals both large and small. Meshes that will help your garden grow.

Welded wire garden fences come in different combinations of mesh size and wire gauge. They are available in three finishes:

1. Galvanized Before Weld (GBW) meshes are the least expensive and will not last as long as the other two. When the galvanized wire is welded, the rust resisting zinc is burned off where the wires intersect. Moisture will collect at these vulnerable points. Rust begins and the fence gradually weakens.
2. Galvanized After Weld (GAW) meshes are more costly initially, but their long lifetime can eliminate the expense and hassle of replacement. Following the welding process, the fence is drawn through a bath of molten zinc. The wire and the weld joints are thoroughly coated.
3. Vinyl Coated (VC) meshes feature both long life and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Once the fence is welded, the PVC vinyl is tightly bonded to the wire as it passes through a heat process. Black is becoming the preferred color choice. It blends with the background, becoming virtually invisible. Your enclosed area can be clearly seen.

A variety of meshes and gauges available:

1/4" x 1/4" - 23 gauge - GAW and VC 

1/2" x 1/2" - 19 and 16 gauges - GBW, GAW and VC

1/2" x 1" - 16 and 14 gauges - GBW, GAW and VC

1" x 1" - 16, 14 and 12-1/2 gauges - GBW, GAW and VC

1" x 2" - 14 gauge - GBW, GAW and VC

1-1/2" x 1-1/2" -12-1/2 and 10-1/2 gauges - GAW and VC

3" x 2" - 16 gauge - VC

1-1/2" x 4" -14 gauge - VC

2" x 4" - 14 and 12-1/2 gauges - GBW and VC

Meshes and gauges available:

1" hex netting chicken wire - 20 and 18 gauges - GBW, GAW and VC

1-1/2" hexagonal poultry wire - 17 gauge - Apron Fence - GBW and VC

2" hex netting - 20 gauge - GBW

2" x 2" - 16 gauge - GBW

2" x 4" - 12-1/2 gauge - GBW

Garden/Deer & Orchard (graduated openings - 1" x 6 to 4" x 6") - 14-1/2 gauge - GBW

Deer & Wildlife Fence (graduated openings) - 12-1/2 and 14 gauges - GBW

This is a general look at what is available for welded and woven wire meshes to fence in your garden. The type you choose depends on the needs of your particular project. And there is a product for every use.

Service for a Lifetime

Vinyl coated wire mesh and fencing is the longest lasting mesh you can buy. There are welded as well as woven meshes available. After the mesh is welded or woven, it passes through the coating process. The PVC is tightly bonded to the wire by a heat process. The mesh is completely covered, including those areas most likely to rust first - the spots that are welded or woven. The vinyl coating is impervious to moisture and corrosives. The wire is thoroughly protected from rust and corrosion. Standard colors are black and green. Other colors are available on special order.

Tightly Bonded Coating

A high quality vinyl coating is flexible and will not crack when bent. It gives the mesh a smooth finished look. There are no sharp edges. The PVC is not affected by extreme hot or cold temperatures. It is so well bonded to the wire that it stands up to scrapes and abrasions. Coated meshes are tough, long-lasting, weather and chemical resistant and attractive. Any mesh or fence that is vinyl coated will have the longest lifetime. Some meshes are available with double protection - GAW wire that is galvanized after being welded or woven and then covered with a thick layer of vinyl.

And a Variety of Uses-- 

• yard fence
• animal cages
• chicken coops
• crawfish traps
• boundary fence
• kennel flooring
• game bird pens
• deer fence barrier
• greenhouse benches
• children's play yards
• swimming pool fence
• lawn and garden fence
• nuisance animal exclusion
• backing for wood post and rail fence

Advantages of Vinyl Coated Fence and Mesh  

• durable
• longest lifetime
• resistant to rust and corrosion
• weather and chemical resistant
• welded and woven mesh and fence
• UV treated to protect against solar degradation