How to Choose Plastic Fencing Net Without Costly Mistakes

A quality fencing net is essential for many garden and animal owners. Whether you want to keep your chickens safe, protect your vegetable garden from wildlife, or keep leaves out of your pond, choosing the right net is crucial. Unfortunately, this choice often leads to frustration. Many plastic nets that look perfectly fine at first glance turn out to be brittle and torn after just one season.

Before you invest in a new roll of mesh, it's important to recognise the common pitfalls. This will prevent you from wasting money on a product that doesn't deliver on its promise.

• Pitfall 1: The 'Sun Effect'. Low-cost mesh without UV protection is quickly broken down by sunlight. After one or two summers, the material becomes so brittle that it breaks at the slightest touch.
• Pitfall 2: Insufficient Tensile Strength. A net intended to contain animals must be able to withstand some force. Many standard nets tear under light pressure, making them unsuitable as plastic chicken wire or wildlife netting.
• Pitfall 3: The Wrong Mesh Size. Meshes that are too large let small animals through, while meshes that are too small catch unnecessary wind or obstruct the view. The mesh size must be appropriate for the application.

What to Look For in a Durable Purchase

To avoid these problems, you need to look beyond the price and the dimensions on the roll. Two technical specifications are decisive for the quality and lifespan of a plastic fencing net.

1. Material and Production: The Strength of Polypropylene Mesh

Not all plastic is created equal. For fencing nets, polypropylene mesh is a popular choice, but the manufacturing method makes all the difference. Look for nets that have undergone a molecular stretching process (bi-orientation). This process, as used in products like TENAX Cintoflex, stretches the material in two directions. According to the manufacturer TENAX, this results in a mesh with significantly higher tear and tensile strength than untreated plastic. The strands are thin and flexible, yet strong. This makes it a robust alternative to traditional metal mesh, with the added benefits of not rusting and being lighter in weight.

2. UV Stabilisation: A Must for Outdoor Use

A plastic net used outdoors must be able to withstand the elements. UV stabilisation is not a luxury here, but a necessity. This is an additive in the plastic that prevents degradation from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. A net without this feature will discolour and lose its flexibility and strength. A UV-stabilised net retains its colour and structure, even after years of exposure to sun, rain, and wind. This is essential for any application, from aviary mesh to pond netting that is left out all autumn.

Our Product Recommendations

To help you with your choice, we have matched several products to specific user profiles. These recommendations are based on product specifications that align with the application.

MATCH FOR: The Hobby Farmer

TENAX Cintoflex E Agricultural Fencing - Black, 2 x 100 m

Why This Fits Their Persona: Ideal for fencing larger plots, such as a chicken run or a pasture for small livestock. The 2-metre height is effective, and the large 100-metre roll is practical for extensive projects.

How It Avoids the Trap

According to the manufacturer, the molecular stretching process ensures high tensile strength, preventing the net from tearing easily when animals push against it. It is UV-stabilised and therefore weather-resistant.

Key Advantage & Pros

Made of polypropylene; lightweight roll (17.1 kg) for easy installation over long distances.

MATCH FOR: The Gardener

TENAX Cintoflex Plastic Fencing Net - 1 x 100 m, Black

Why This Fits Their Persona: A versatile garden mesh on a roll, suitable for protecting a vegetable garden, covering a pond in autumn, or creating a temporary enclosure for pets.

How It Avoids the Trap

This net is UV-stabilised, so it won't become brittle after a season in the sun. Its strength is sufficient to keep out leaves and small pests without tearing.

Key Advantage & Pros

Very lightweight (7.7 kg for 100 metres), making it easy to handle and install, even for one person.

MATCH FOR: The Aviary Builder

TENAX Cintoflex Aviary Netting - Black, 1.5 x 100 m

Why This Fits Their Persona: Specifically designed as aviary mesh. The 22 x 35 mm mesh size is suitable for keeping birds safely contained while still allowing for good ventilation and light transmission.

How It Avoids the Trap

This product addresses the pitfall of the wrong mesh size. It is specifically designed for aviaries, ensuring the mesh dimensions are suitable for birds.

Key Advantage & Pros

UV-stabilised for a long lifespan and does not rust or rot, which is essential for a permanent structure like an aviary.

How do you install plastic fencing net?

Installation is generally straightforward. The light weight makes it easy to move and unroll the rolls. Attach the net to posts (wood or metal) using zip ties, staples, or binding wire. Ensure the net is pulled taut for a sturdy result. For use as pond netting, lay it over the pond and secure the edges with stones or pegs.

How long does UV-stabilised polypropylene mesh last?

The lifespan depends on the intensity of sun exposure and other weather conditions. According to manufacturers like TENAX, UV stabilisation ensures the mesh lasts for years without becoming brittle or discolouring. An annual inspection for any damage is recommended, especially after a heavy storm or snowfall.

Is plastic mesh strong enough to stop deer or foxes?

For larger or stronger animals like deer, a net with very high tensile strength is required. Products specifically designated as wildlife netting, such as the TENAX C-Flex, are designed for this purpose. According to the manufacturer, these have high tear and tensile strength. To keep foxes out of a chicken run, it is also important to partially bury the mesh, as foxes will try to dig underneath it. The height of the fence is also a key factor.