In many parts of the world, fencing is essential to enclosing a garden or yard. Depending on your purpose, there are several styles of fencing to consider. Chain link fencing is an affordable way to enclose an outdoor space, keep animals out or restrict children. Chain link fencing consists of galvanized metal and comes in rollouts up to 100 feet long, with prefabricated gateways as high as 5 feet high.
Chain link fencing can be constructed with prefabricated panels that fit together in four-foot sections. The fencing panels are then assembled in the center of the garden. The fence posts, which are similar to those found on home decks, are positioned along the perimeter of the garden. There are typically two types of fence styles available – underground fencing and above ground wiring. Underground fencing, which is available in galvanized steel or galvanized aluminum and copper, is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and is considered by many to be the most practical choice for outdoor gardens.
An above ground electrical garden fence, which can also be electrically or chemically insulated, consists of a metal or plastic fence that is buried beneath the earth. An example of this type of fence is the chain-link style. This fencing is considered to be the least attractive of all styles of fence, although some animal advocates have started purchasing dog fence for their pets. The reason for this preference is the fact that a dog fence will not deter any wild animals from eating the garden pests like lady bugs or lacewings but will prevent other small animals, such as raccoons, from entering a property. Even though raccoons are more likely to seek out foods that are not toxic, they still can.
Vinyl or woven wire, which is considered to be the most rustic of all types of garden fences, is usually constructed of old-growth Douglas fir or cedar logs and is usually painted a brownish color to prevent it from attracting termites. Garden fences made of vinyl or mesh are easy to maintain because they are not affected by sun, wind, rain or frost. These fences are available in an array of styles and sizes to match your individual preferences.
Some individuals may opt for solar-powered plastic mesh fencing or electric fences, which use rechargeable batteries to power the mesh. Both styles of fencing can provide you with a low-cost way to keep your garden free of insects and animals without putting a hole in your wallet. These types of electric fences can be installed anywhere, even on the sides of your home, provided the power source is out. Solar panels attached to the top of the fencing to allow the panels to absorb sun during the day and store the energy during the night. You can then connect the wiring coming from the panels to the fencing, which enables you to control the amount of power that is allowed to flow through your fencing.
If you live in an area where groundhogs have a population of millions, then it would be a wise choice to invest in heavy duty plastic fencing, which is eight to twelve inches high and four to six inches wide. These heavy duty plastic fencing panels are strong enough to ward off smaller creatures like mice, rats and voles, but they are also durable enough to stand up to the most severe weather conditions. It is important to keep in mind that the fencing will be buried beneath the ground, so it is important to make sure that your new fencing material is pressure-treated so as not to corrode from water or become damaged by freezing temperatures. Your new fencing will also need to be buried, so consult with your local building codes before beginning construction.