Building Portable Chicken Fence Panels With Pvc

Building portable chicken fence panels out of PVC is a great way to keep your chickens contained while also giving them access to fresh grass. While some people use metal or wood for their fencing, PVC is a lightweight and strong option that can be set up freestanding or against a coop. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using PVC for your portable chicken fence panels and provide step-by-step instructions on how to build them, including the materials you will need and the assembly process. We will also offer tips and tricks for setting up your fencing and address common concerns such as keeping chickens in and protecting them from predators.

Using PVC vs. other materials

PVC is a popular choice for building portable chicken fence panels due to its lightweight yet sturdy nature. However, it is important to note that PVC can become brittle over time due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. This may cause it to break or smash, requiring replacement. To mitigate this issue, some users suggest filling the PVC with sand to increase its strength and durability. However, this adds weight and complexity to the construction process.

Another option for building portable chicken fence panels is to use metal fencing or stakes. Metal is generally stronger and more durable than PVC, especially when it comes to withstanding the elements. Metal fencing can be electrified to create an electric fence, which can be effective in containing chickens and deterring predators. However, electric fencing can be more expensive and may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.

Wood is another alternative material for constructing portable chicken fence panels. Wood is naturally sturdy and can provide a strong barrier for containing chickens. By cutting wooden boards to the desired size and attaching hardware cloth or chicken wire, you can create a functional and portable fence. Wood is also easier to work with than metal and can be more cost-effective, depending on the type of wood used.

Chicken wire or hardware cloth is essential for any portable chicken fence panel, regardless of the framing material. These materials create a barrier that contains the chickens while allowing airflow and visibility. Chicken wire is generally more affordable and flexible, making it easier to work with. Hardware cloth, on the other hand, is sturdier and better suited for deterring predators, although it adds weight to the structure.

When choosing between PVC, metal, or wood for your portable chicken fence panels, consider factors such as cost, ease of construction, durability, and the level of protection needed from predators. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

Chicken breeds and their impact on fence design

Chicken fencing can be influenced by several factors, including the breed of chicken, the presence of predators, and the desired level of portability.

When selecting a chicken breed, consider that some breeds are more likely to escape than others. For example, heavy breeds like Welsummers, Orpingtons, and Cochins tend to be lazy about expanding their territory, while Rhode Island Reds are known for their propensity to escape and bother neighbours. Small, light birds, such as Bantams, are more likely to fly and will require a higher fence. Mediterranean breeds, such as Leghorns, are also strong fliers. To prevent escapes, you can clip the wings of persistent escapees or opt for a taller fence design.

The choice between portable and stationary fencing also plays a role in chicken breed selection. Portable fencing offers the advantage of providing chickens with access to fresh grass and new territories. This can be beneficial for breeds that enjoy foraging and exploring, such as the active breeds mentioned above. However, portable fencing may be less sturdy and secure than permanent structures, which could be a concern for breeds that are particularly vulnerable to predators, like young chickens and Bantams.

To protect your chickens from predators, the design of your fence is crucial. Electric fencing is an effective option, but it can be costly and requires regular maintenance. Chicken wire, vinyl-coated wire, hardware cloth, and heavy netting are all suitable materials for constructing portable fencing. However, it's important to ensure that the openings in the wire or netting are small enough to prevent chickens from slipping through and deterring predators from breaking through.

When constructing portable PVC fence panels, consider the weight and durability of the materials. PVC tends to become brittle over time due to sunlight exposure, and longer PVC stakes can curve and freeze in that position. To enhance the strength of PVC fencing, you may need to fill it with sand, but this adds significant weight. Alternatively, you can opt for materials like metal or wood, which are more durable but may be less portable.

In summary, when designing portable chicken fence panels out of PVC, carefully consider the breed of your chickens, their natural behaviours, and the local predator risks. This will help you determine the appropriate height, weight, and security features of your fence panels to ensure the safety and well-being of your flock.

Building a freestanding or coop-adjacent fence

Planning the Fence:

Before you begin construction, decide on the number of panels you want to create. Each panel can be up to 4 feet long and 36 inches high. You can make as many panels as needed and set them up freestanding or against your chicken coop. Keep in mind that if you make them taller than 36 inches, it may be difficult to reach over and replace feed and water.

Materials:

For this project, you will need PVC pipes, chicken wire or hardware cloth, wire plant stakes, zip ties, and twine. You may also want to get poultry netting to cover the top of the pen. Additionally, consider getting metal or wooden stakes to pound into the ground and attach the panels for added stability.

Constructing the Panels:

Start by cutting and joining PVC pipes to create 4-foot-long sections for the top and bottom of each panel. You can use 1-inch PVC pipes and cut them to 52-inch-long pieces. Drill holes through the pipes and bolt them together to ensure a secure fit. Cover the PVC frame with hardware cloth or chicken wire, securing it with zip ties or by stapling it in place.

Setting Up the Pen:

Place the panels where you want them, either freestanding or against your coop. Use wire plant stakes for the hinges at the corners of the panels to connect them together. If desired, cover the top of the pen with bird or poultry netting, hooking it over the corner stakes. To enter the pen, simply slip out one of the corner stakes, creating a door.

Additional Considerations:

PVC fences may need additional stability in high winds, so consider using weights or temporary ground stakes to secure them. Additionally, predators may be able to dig under the edges, so ensure the pen is placed in an area where this is not a concern, or consider a full wire floor.

Remember to move the fence regularly to provide your chickens with fresh grass and maximize forage. Enjoy your new portable chicken fence!

How to attach hardware cloth or fencing to PVC

Building a portable chicken fence out of PVC is a great way to keep your chickens contained and safe from predators. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to attach hardware cloth or fencing to PVC for your portable chicken fence:

Planning and Materials

Before you begin, it is important to plan the size and number of panels you will need for your portable chicken fence. The panels can be set up freestanding or against a coop, and you can make as many as needed. For each panel, you will need enough PVC pipe to create a frame that fits your desired dimensions. Additionally, you will need hardware cloth or fencing material, wire plant stakes for the hinges, and tools for attachment such as zip ties, wire, or staples.

Creating the PVC Frame

Cut the PVC pipes to the desired length for your panels, ensuring that each panel is no taller than 36" for easy access to feed and water. Assemble the PVC pipes to create a frame for each panel. You can connect the PVC pipes by inserting them into PVC connectors or elbows to form corners. If you cannot find suitable connectors, you can use zip ties or wire to secure the pipes together.

Attaching the Hardware Cloth or Fencing

Now, you will attach the hardware cloth or fencing to the PVC frame. If using hardware cloth, ensure that it is galvanized or rust-proof, especially if it will be exposed to outdoor elements. One method of attachment is to wrap the hardware cloth or fencing wire around the PVC frame and secure it with zip ties or wire. You can also use staples to attach the hardware cloth directly to the PVC frame, although this may not be as secure. For added strength, consider using a wood sleeve or o-ring around the PVC and attach the hardware cloth to that.

Securing the Panels

Once your panels are assembled, you will need to secure them in place. Pound metal or wire plant stakes into the ground at each corner of the panels and attach them with twine, zip ties, or wire. This will ensure that the fence remains upright and stable, especially in high winds.

Maintenance and Considerations

Over time, PVC can become brittle due to sunlight exposure, so consider using a cover for shading. Additionally, predators may be able to dig underneath the fence, so ensure that the panels are securely staked into the ground, and consider adding a full wire floor if necessary. Regularly inspect your portable chicken fence for any signs of wear and tear, and make repairs as needed.

Making the fence portable

To make a portable chicken fence, you will need to create panels that can be easily moved and set up in different configurations. Here are the steps to make a portable chicken fence out of PVC:

Plan the size and number of panels: Determine the size of each panel based on your specific needs and the area you want to enclose. You can make as many panels as required, typically ranging from 4' x 4' to 5' x 10'. Keep in mind that panels taller than 36" might be difficult to reach over when replacing feed and water.

Gather the materials: You will need PVC pipes, poultry netting or chicken wire, wire plant stakes or metal stakes, and any additional hardware for assembly. Ensure you have enough materials for all the panels you plan to create.

Assemble the panels: Cut and assemble the PVC pipes to form the frame of each panel. You can use elbows, tees, and connectors to join the pipes together. The exact configuration may vary depending on your design. Ensure that the panels are sturdy and stable.

Attach the netting or wire: Secure poultry netting or chicken wire to the PVC frame using zip ties, staples, or other suitable fasteners. Make sure the netting or wire is taut and securely attached to prevent chickens from escaping and predators from entering.

Add stability and portability features: To enhance stability, consider adding temporary ground stakes or weights at the corners of the panels. You can also use wire plant stakes for the hinges at the corners, allowing the panels to be freestanding or connected to each other. Ensure that the stakes are firmly secured to the ground to provide stability for the fence.

Test and adjust: Once the panels are assembled, test their portability by setting them up in different configurations. Ensure that they can be easily moved and rearranged without causing damage to the structure. Make any necessary adjustments to improve portability and stability.

By following these steps, you can create a functional and portable chicken fence out of PVC. Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your fence to ensure its longevity and effectiveness in containing your chickens safely.

Frequently asked questions