Chicken wire, also known as poultry netting is a wire mesh commonly used for building enclosures and fences for poultry. But with chicken wire available in different gauges it can get confusing on what gauge to choose for your specific needs. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about chicken wire gauges to make an informed decision.
What is Gauge?
Gauge refers to the thickness of the chicken wire, with lower gauges indicating thicker wire and higher gauges meaning thinner wire The gauge is represented by a number – the lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire Typical chicken wire gauges range from 14 gauge to 24 gauge.
Chicken wire with lower gauge numbers around 14 to 18 provides maximum strength and durability. While higher gauge wires from 20 to 24 are lighter and more flexible but less sturdy. The gauge you choose depends on factors like the size of your birds, potential threats, and weather conditions which we’ll explore next.
Key Factors in Choosing Chicken Wire Gauge
There are several key considerations when selecting the right chicken wire gauge:
Size and Weight of Birds
For heavier poultry like chickens, ducks, and turkeys, a lower gauge like 16 or 18 provides extra strength to contain them safely. For smaller or lighter birds like quail and chicks, a 20 or 22 gauge wire suffices. Match the gauge to the size of your birds.
Predators and Threats
In areas with high predator risks like foxes, coyotes or raccoons, opt for 14 to 16 gauge for maximum protection. The smaller mesh and thicker wire make it harder for predators to get through. In low-risk areas, 20 gauge is usually adequate.
Climate and Weather Conditions
For chicken wire exposed to harsh outdoor conditions, choose a thicker 14 to 16 gauge wire that can withstand the elements. The added durability provides better longevity.
Portability Needs
If you need movable chicken wire pens, select a 20 to 22 gauge wire that is lightweight and flexible enough for frequent repositioning.
By factoring in these elements, you can determine the ideal gauge for your specific needs. Let’s look at common chicken wire gauges and their best uses.
Common Chicken Wire Gauges and Recommended Uses
Here are the typical chicken wire gauges and what they work best for:
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14 to 16 gauge – Most secure for large poultry like chickens and turkeys. Recommended for high predator areas. Provides maximum strength and weather resistance.
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18 to 20 gauge – Optimal for deterring small predators from accessing smaller poultry like bantams, ducks, and quail. Also good for partitions within coops.
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22 to 24 gauge – Best for housing tiny poultry like chicks and juvenile birds that don’t require sturdy wire. Easy to work with and very portable.
Within those ranges, here are the specific gauges commonly used:
16 Gauge
16 gauge with 1/2 inch mesh is one of the most heavy duty options. It provides superior strength for large birds while still allowing good visibility and ventilation. 16 gauge is often used for permanent outdoor enclosures.
19 Gauge
19 gauge with 1 inch mesh offers a decent balance of durability and flexibility. It’s light enough for movable pens yet provides ample security for medium-sized poultry in moderate predator areas.
20 Gauge
20 gauge with 1 inch mesh is the most popular and versatile choice for general use. It works well for containing chickens while being lightweight and easy to work with. 20 gauge delivers adequate strength at a budget-friendly price.
22 to 24 Gauge
22 to 24 gauge wires have smaller 1/2 inch mesh ideal for smaller breed chicks and ornamental birds. The thinner wire is perfect for temporary or portable enclosures that require frequent moving.
So match the gauge to your specific needs for the safest and most secure chicken wire for your birds.
Galvanized, Vinyl, or Stainless Steel Chicken Wire
Chicken wire comes in three main material types:
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Galvanized – Most common and economical option. Coated with zinc for decent rust resistance. Provides good durability.
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Vinyl – PVC-coated for extra weather protection. Better longevity than galvanized wire. Easy to see birds through coating.
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Stainless Steel – Most expensive but extremely durable and corrosion resistant for harsh environments. Provides longest lasting wire.
Galvanized steel is suitable for most needs, while vinyl-coated offers increased lifespan and stainless is optimal for high durability requirements despite the greater cost.
Key Properties of Chicken Wire
Beyond just gauge, chicken wire is also defined by other key properties:
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Mesh Size – The size of the hexagonal openings, usually 1/2, 1 or 2 inches. Smaller 1/2 inch mesh provides more security.
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Horizontal Wires – The number of horizontal wire strands which impacts strength. More strands means greater durability.
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Vertical Wires – The number of vertical wire strands affecting rigidity. More strands makes the wire stiffer.
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Selvage – The finishing along the edges to prevent fraying. Tight lock selvage provides a neat, secure edge.
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Coating – The protective coating like galvanized, vinyl or stainless that enhances durability.
Evaluating all these qualities ensures you get high-quality and long-lasting chicken wire.
Chicken Wire Installation and Maintenance
Properly installing chicken wire is vital for safety and security:
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Bury the wire at least 6 inches underground to prevent animals burrowing under.
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Securely fasten the wire to posts using staples, wire, or fencing clips to prevent sagging.
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Overlap sections of chicken wire by several inches and tie together when joining pieces.
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Check for and repair any holes, gaps or loose sections regularly to keep birds contained.
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Trim vegetation around the chicken wire to avoid it creating a path over the fence.
With good installation and frequent checks, chicken wire can safely contain poultry for many years.
Cost-Effective Chicken Wire Choices
For those on a tight budget, here are some affordable chicken wire options:
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Galvanized steel wire is the most economical choice that still provides decent durability.
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Buying larger rolls of wire is cheaper overall compared to smaller pre-cut lengths.
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Lower gauge numbers tend to cost more, so gauge 20 or 22 can save money while still being useful.
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Plain galvanized wire is cheaper than vinyl-coated. But vinyl does have greater longevity.
Prioritize quality as well as cost when selecting budget-friendly chicken wire for your needs.
The gauge of chicken wire directly impacts its strength, security, and appropriateness for specific poultry. Carefully consider your needs in terms of bird sizes, potential predators, climate, and portability when choosing the ideal gauge. Heavier 14 to 16 gauge works best for large birds and high-risk areas, while 20 to 24 gauge is better suited for smaller poultry and movable pens. Also look for quality construction and optimal coating when selecting chicken wire. With this guide’s help, you can make an informed decision to get the safest, most secure chicken wire to protect your flock.
Galvanized chicken wire sizes:
- Mesh size: 13 mm, 25 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 75 mm, and 100 mm.
- Wire thickness: 0.7 mm – 1.6 mm.
- Usually mesh size/wire: 13 mm / 0.7 mm, 16 mm / 0.7 mm, 20 mm / 0.7 mm, 25 mm / 0.8 mm, 40 mm / 0.9 mm, 50 mm / 1.0 mm, 75 mm / 1.2 mm, 75 mm / 1.4 mm, 100 mm / 1.6 mm.
- Width: 0.5 m, 0.75 m, 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 1.8 m, 2.0 m.
- Length: 10 m, 25 m, 50 m, or cut it to your desired length.
- Packed in rolls.
The most popular galvanized wire chicken mesh: mesh size (mm) / wire thickness (mm) / width (m) / length (m). 13 mm × 0.7 mm × 0.5 m (10 m, 25 m). 13 mm × 0.7 mm × 1.0 m (10 m, 25 m). 20 mm × 0.7 mm × 0.5 m (25 m). 20 mm × 0.7 mm × 1.0 m (25 m). 25 mm × 0.8 mm × 0.5 m (10 m, 25 m). 25 mm × 0.8 mm × 1.0 m (10 m, 25 m, 50 m). 25 mm × 0.8 mm × 1.5 m (50 m). 40 mm × 0.9 mm × 1.2 m (50 m). 40 mm × 0.9 mm × 2.0 m (50 m). 50 mm × 0.9 mm × 1.5 m (50 m). 50 mm × 1.0 mm × 1.8 m / 2.0 m (50 m). 75 mm × 1.2 mm/1.4 mm × 1.8 m / 2.0 m (50 m). 100 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.8 m / 2.0 m (50 m).
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FAQ
What is the thickness of chicken wire?
… in 1 inch (about 2.5 cm) diameter, chicken wire is available in various wire gauges usually 19 gauge (about 1 mm wire) to 22 gauge (about 0.7 mm wire)
Is 19 gauge wire strong enough for a chicken coop?
This is the best material for enclosing a chicken coop or enclosed run. In particular, you want 1/2″ galvanized hardware cloth (usually 19 gauge). Smaller openings could be too brittle, and larger openings will not deter against rats or snakes.
What gauge for chicken wire?
… 2.5 cm) diameter, and 2 inch (about 5 cm), chicken wire is available in various gauges—usually 19 gauge (about 1 mm wire) to 22 gauge (about 0.7 mm wire)
What size opening is chicken wire?
While hardware cloth openings are typically one inch wide or smaller, chicken wire gaps can vary, with some as wide as two full inches.
What gauge is chicken wire?
Available in 1 inch (about 2.5 cm) diameter, chicken wire is available in various wire gauges usually 19 gauge (about 1 mm wire) to 22 gauge (about 0.7 mm wire). In the insulation industry, chicken wire is mainly used as a matrix for holding insulation cements and mastics in place. Which is stronger 19 or 23 gauge wire?
What size chicken wire do you use?
9 Gauge is the most common wire sized used for both residential and commercial applications. 11 and 11-1/2 gauge are typically used for temporary fencing, while the 6 gauge is used in high security applications. Is plastic chicken wire good?
What gauge wire should a chicken eat?
A higher gauge number indicates a thinner wire, so for smaller chickens and less security needs, a higher gauge like 20 or 22 might suffice. However, for larger or heavier chickens, or if you are in an area with more predators, a lower gauge wire like 14 or 16 would provide better protection and durability.
What size is galvanized chicken wire?
Galvanized chicken wire, 1/2 inch hole, 2 foot width, and 100 foot length rolls. 18 gauge × 900 mm high × 25 mm holes galvanized chicken wire. 3/4 inch galvanized chicken wire 3 feet wide by 10 feet long. Galvanized chicken mesh 10 meters roll length, 40 mm mesh size, 0.90 mm wire diameter, 100 cm roll height.
What gauge wire is best for poultry?
A lower gauge wire, such as 20 or 19 gauge, is thicker and stronger, offering better protection against predators trying to break through. On the other hand, a higher gauge wire, like 22 or 23 gauge, is thinner and more lightweight, providing less security for the poultry.
How do I choose the best wire gauge for chicken coops?
When it comes to selecting the optimal wire gauge for chicken coops, it is crucial to consider the security and durability of the enclosure. A recommended gauge for chicken coops is typically around 20 to 16, with the lower the number indicating a thicker and stronger wire.