What is a Box Wire Fence?
Discover the versatility of box wire fencing, where the perfect fusion of enduring strength and aesthetic appeal creates a shield to safeguard your surroundings.
If you live in California, you've likely seen the fence style that combines wood posts with metal or plastic wiring in-between. This type of fence goes by many names, a deer fence, a hybrid fence, a wood and wire fence, or, as we call it, a box wire fence.
This fence style is not only practical, but can be a stylish and cost-effective option for any property. In fact, the average wire fence costs are between $1 and $15 per linear feet of fencing for materials and installation.
The primary advantage of choosing a box wire fence is the ability to keep animals in or out. The grid of plastic or metal wires combined with sturdy wood posts means that you can keep out small animals like rabbits, or larger animals like deer or hogs (hence the names "deer fence" and 'hog fence.')
In addition to practical considerations for wildlife, box wire fences can add a barrier to your property without obstructing the full view like a traditional wood fence, and with a bit more style and aesthetic appeal than regular chain link fencing.
The size and material of the openings in the box wire fence is the main factor that will determine the fence's effectiveness. For example, the smaller the opening size the more animals you will keep out. Fences with 2" or smaller squares will keep out foxes, woodchucks, coyotes, etc., whereas 1" openings will keep out animals like rabbits and other rodents and 1/2" openings will keep out moles, snakes and other small animals.
Box wire fences have many of the same components you think of with a traditional wood fence, like rails, posts, kickboards, etc. What differentiates them is the fabric in between sections of posts and rails. The different types of fabric will determine what can get in or out of the fence, depending on their durability and strength.
The different fabrics for a box wire fence include welded metal wire/welded metal panels or plastic net (from polypropylene.) The metal can come in rolled sheets or prefabricated panels, with the latter being the more expensive option. Welded metal comes in different gauges, with 6 gauge being the strongest and most expensive, and 14 gauge being the standard. Box wire fences can be built to different fence heights, depending on their location and use-case.
An economic version of a box wire fence might have the following specifications: 4' height, 2 by 4 PT Rail Box Frame, and budget deer chain fabric. This version of the box wire fence would be suitable for light traffic from smaller and larger animals.
A standard design for a box wire fence might have the following specifications: Any height - 4 by 4 PT Post + 2 by 4 PT Top/Bottom Rail and budget deer chain fabric.
A more premium design might be a fence of any height, with an added 2 by 6 PT cap rail, an added PT kickboard, or added 4 1 by 1 wood trims. Premium designs will likely also feature a heavy duty metal or fabric for higher animal traffic.
Explore an array of captivating wire fence ideas in our comprehensive style guide blog! Discover endless inspiration for your next wire fence project.
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