Where to Buy Chicken Wire – A Complete Guide

Chicken wire, also known as poultry netting, is an extremely versatile product used for a variety of purposes From building chicken coops to protecting gardens, chicken wire is a handy material for do-it-yourself projects and agricultural needs But where exactly can you buy chicken wire? This comprehensive guide will overview everything you need to know about purchasing chicken wire and provide tips on the best places to shop.

What is Chicken Wire?

Chicken wire as the name implies, is a wire mesh product that is commonly used for building enclosures for poultry. It is made up of thin, galvanized steel or aluminum wire that is woven in a hexagonal or square pattern with 1 to 2 inch openings. The small openings allow airflow while containing birds and small animals.

Chicken wire comes in rolls that are up to 150 feet long and 2 to 4 feet tall. This material is very bendable and simple to cut, bend, and shape to your needs. Galvanization provides corrosion resistance and longevity.

Chicken wire is usually used to keep chickens inside, but it can be used for many other things too. Pests can’t get into gardens and flower beds, and it can also be used to make temporary fencing. You can also use chicken wire for arts and crafts projects, to protect coffee tables, or to cover windows.

Key Places to Purchase Chicken Wire

Most big hardware stores, farm supply stores, and home improvement warehouses sell chicken wire. These are some of the best places to look for chicken wire:

Farm & Ranch Supply Stores

Stores geared towards agricultural and livestock supplies are the most obvious place to buy chicken wire. Top national chains like Tractor Supply Co. and Rural King will have a wide selection of chicken wire in various sizes. Expect good availability of larger 150 foot rolls ideal for spanning longer distances. Farm supply stores typically stock stronger and heavier gauges intended for permanent outdoor use.

Hardware Stores

Local hardware stores and regional/national chains like Ace Hardware and True Value will stock chicken wire in the fencing section. Offerings may be more limited than farm stores, with smaller 25 to 50 foot rolls common. But hardware stores provide a convenient option when you just need a single smaller roll for a minor project.

Home Improvement Stores

Chicken wire can be found in the lumber and fencing aisles of big home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowes. Like hardware stores, the selection is mostly made up of smaller rolls of lighter gauge wire that are best for short-term indoor uses. But home centers make it easy to get everything you need for a project in one place, like chicken wire, lumber, tools, and other supplies.

Online Retailers

Several online retailers offer chicken wire for purchase and ship directly to your door. Amazon stocks various size rolls of chicken wire with free shipping for Prime members. Specialty metal and fencing websites like WireFenceDirect.com also have good online selection. Ordering online allows easy price comparisons and avoids the hassle of transporting rolls from the store. Just watch for high shipping costs on the larger bulky rolls.

Local Farm & Feed Stores

In rural areas, local farm and feed stores are an excellent source for chicken wire and other farm supplies. These small independent stores cater to the local agricultural community. They typically have wire fencing in stock and can order specific sizes as needed. Though selection is smaller than national chains, the local feed store may offer a price advantage. And you’ll be supporting a local small business.

What to Look for When Buying Chicken Wire

Chicken wire is a simple product, but there are a few key factors to consider when selecting rolls:

• Mesh size – The industry standard opening is 1 inch. Smaller 3/4 inch openings provide more protection. Larger 2 inch gaps are sometimes used in fence barriers.

• Mesh pattern – Hexagonal mesh is the classic chicken wire style and most common. Square grid patterns are also available.

• Wire gauge – Thicker wire is stronger and more durable. 20 or 21 gauge wire is adequate for most purposes. Heavier 16 or 19 gauge is best for high-traffic areas.

• Roll size – Consider the dimensions needed to span the desired area. Lengths up to 150 feet provide flexibility. For small projects, 25-50 foot rolls reduce waste.

• Coating – Galvanized wire is suitable for most uses. For increased rust resistance, look for vinyl/plastic coated chicken wire.

• Metal type – Galvanized steel is the traditional material used. But aluminum chicken wire is also available for lightness and corrosion resistance.

Chicken Wire Uses

The uses for chicken wire are nearly endless thanks to its versatile qualities. Here are some of the most common applications:

• Chicken coops and runs – The classic purpose, chicken wire creates predator-proof enclosures for poultry and fowl. Stronger wire is best for permanent structures.

• Rabbit and small animal pens – Great for containing rabbits, guinea pigs, and similar sized pets while allowing ventilation.

• Garden protection – Wrap flower beds, compost piles, and vegetable rows to deter rabbits and rodents from nibbling.

• Temporary fencing – Quickly create temporary barriers for pets, livestock, or garden areas with flexible chicken wire.

• Craft projects – Armature for sculptures, wrapping jars/vases, embellishing lamps, etc. The uses are only limited by imagination!

• Training/espalier fruit trees – Train plant growth along fences and walls. Also useful for espalier pruning fruit trees.

• Sports barrier – Protective backyard hockey and baseball hitting barriers to prevent balls/pucks from straying.

• Window screens – An inexpensive alternative to keep bugs out of windows, storage sheds, and livestock shelters.

Chicken Wire Safety Tips

While very handy, it’s important to keep safety in mind when working with chicken wire:

• Wear heavy work gloves when handling wire to avoid painful cuts and scratches. The cut ends of wire can be extremely sharp.

• Use proper wire cutting tools like sturdy wire cutters or tin snips. Avoid using saws which can leave frayed wire ends.

• Bend wire carefully and avoid kinking which weakens the integrity. Create smooth curves when shaping chicken wire.

• Secure wire with quality fasteners like staples, zip ties, or steel fence clips. Check regularly for loose edges that could poke or scratch.

• Store rolls up high and out of reach of pets and children to prevent injuries.

• Consider heavier plastic coated wire in areas frequented by children/pets to reduce sharpness.

By following basic safety precautions, chicken wire can be used successfully for many purposes. The versatility and ease of use make it a staple item for farms, gardens, and do-it-yourself projects alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common chicken wire questions:

What gauge chicken wire is best?

• 20 or 21 gauge chicken wire is suitable for most general uses. Go heavier for high-traffic areas.

Does chicken wire rust?

• Galvanized wire resists rusting but will eventually corrode when exposed to weather. Look for vinyl coated wire or aluminum for maximum rust prevention.

What’s the difference between chicken wire and hardware cloth?

• Hardware cloth has smaller 1/4 inch openings that keep out smaller pests. But it’s more rigid and only comes in small sheets.

Can you use chicken wire for rabbits?

• Yes, it can safely contain rabbits while providing ventilation. Just use 1 inch opening wire and secure it well at ground level.

Is chicken wire strong enough for dogs?

• For temporary/portable dog runs, yes. But for permanent robust dog kennels, use stronger welded wire instead.

The Takeaway

Chicken wire is an extremely handy product for the farmyard, garden, and home. Take time to evaluate your specific needs and research the best chicken wire solution. Purchase from a quality retailer that stocks the right wire gauge, mesh size, and roll dimensions for the intended purpose. With proper selection and care, chicken wire can provide many years of useful service for all types of projects.