Racoon fence

Types of raccoon fencing

Raccoon fencing refers to barriers that minimize raccoon incursion on properties, gardens, and farms. Being resilient climbers, diggers, and even jumpers, without adequate protection, these pesky critters can cause extensive destruction to plants and crops. Hence, suitable fencing types are integral to homeowners, farmers, and even urban settings.

Wire mesh fencing

It is among the most popular raccoon fencing types and is a common choice for gardens and agricultural places. The small openings in the wire mesh discourage raccoons from accessing any given area. When it comes to fencing, wire mesh is usually made of galvanized or coated steel so it does not corrode or rust over time exposure to outdoor elements. It also has a long lifespan. Wire mesh can be flexible or rigid in that it can be shaped into various forms and easily fitted into a fencing design.

Chain link fences

They are ideal when strength and durability are required. Chain link fences withstand a lot of pressure and can define a property line with minimal maintenance. The openings are relatively too large for a raccoon to fit within, although the fence may require an additional barrier or, say, a wire mesh, since raccoons are very agile and can climb onto superstructures to gain access.

Electric fences

They provide a more active barrier between raccoons and crops or gardens. When installed correctly, electric fences deter any animal from trying to approach and make contact with a given area because it is uncomfortable to them. They are also generally used in conjunction with other types of fencing to provide an added layer of protection.

PVC-coated wire fencing

It combines the benefits of wire mesh and the durability of coat elements offered by the PVC coating. The coating makes the fence more weather-resistant and less prone to rusting. The smooth, plastic-covered wires are also harder for raccoons to climb. It is crucial, however, that the openings be small to limit access to raccoons.

Debris netting fence

It is lightweight, easy to install, and flexible, making it an ideal temporary solution or for low-impact areas. Fencing often utilizes an easily replaceable, lightweight polyethene material that is UV-stabilized for longer life in the sun. It is also affordable, thus making it easy for businesses to source. While not as strong as other types, it can effectively contain raccoons if the height and tension are correct.

How to choose raccoon fencing

Here are several key factors to consider when choosing raccoon fencing.

• Jurisdictional climate: Raccoon fencing is predominantly made with materials suited to all types of climatic conditions. For example, wire mesh is durable enough to be used in various conditions, such as rainy, windy, and snowy seasons, while PVC-coated wire fencing is a flexible best-fit solution for temperate regions. Hence, it is suitable for every climate type, depending on the material used to make the fence.
• Prior infestation: An area that has struggled with severe raccoon infestations before may need a more robust fencing solution, like an electric or chain link fence. For example, a wooden fence is ideal for areas that have never had an infestation.
• Landtopography: For flat or moderately sloped land, a simple wire mesh or chain link fence will be practical and effective. However, complicated areas with dense vegetation, numerous rocks, or steep slopes may require more specialized solutions, such as PVC-coated fencing, which can better navigate around obstacles.
• Property function: For agricultural property with crops, more robust solutions like an electric fence or PVC-coated wire fence are necessary to avert raccoons from crop destruction. A chain link fence may be more appropriate for homeowners who just want a stylish fence that is easy to maintain and provides minimal destruction.
• Height requirements: Raccoons are incredibly agile and can jump quite high—up to three feet in vertical height. In addition, they're good climbers and can climb about anything. Therefore, raccoon fencing must be at least three feet high and, ideally, four feet to six feet tall, so a wire mesh fence with a greater height would be preferable in an open, windy, and flat area.
• Budget: Budget is crucial in selecting raccoon fencing. For example, a debris netting fence is affordable and offers a temporary solution against the threat of a raccoon fence, while electric wire fencing is much more expensive, offering an ultimate protection solution to an infestation problem.

Design of raccoon fencing

In designing raccoon fencing, it is necessary to consider several vital elements, such as the type of fence, durability, height, features, and aesthetics. The primary goal of this fencing is a functional barrier that minimizes raccoon incursion into any given area while not compromising the surrounding landscape.

Basic design elements

There are several basic design elements to consider when designing raccoon fencing.

• Types of materials: Raccoon fencing can be made from a variety of materials, each with advantages. A wire mesh fence is relatively affordable and accessible, easy to install, and inexpensive. PVC-coated wire fencing is economical, as it is made of coated galvanized wire that is not easily corroded, with a smooth finish that is sleek and attractive. Chain link fences are rough and tough, easy to handle, and affordable. Electric fences use conductive wire; therefore, it is efficient at keeping animals out and protecting crops. Wooden fences are beautiful and classic; hence, they are often used to increase property values. Finally, a debris netting fence is a lightweight netting of high-density polyethylene, which is UV-stabilized and affordable, easy to set up temporally and flexible.
• Durability: Durability is one of the main design considerations for raccoon fences as they face the critters and weather. For example, galvanized wire mesh and PVC-coated wire are corrosion-resistant and long-lasting. Chain link is incredibly strong, whereas electric fencing is highly durable and withstands exposure to outdoor elements. Concrete wood and other netting fences are also incredibly durable.

• Height: Ideally, the raccoon fencing height should be anywhere from 3 feet to 6 feet high. This is because raccoons can effortlessly climb most surfaces and jump 3 to 4 feet in height. Hence, a properly designed fencing system should be tall enough, say up to 6 feet, to mitigate any given chance of invasion.
• Aesthetics: There are two types of raccoon fencing: a wooden raccoon fence that stiffens and beautifies any property and a PVC-coated wire fence that looks attractive and has minimal maintenance. Chain link fences, although functional, are less attractive unless coated in PVC.

How to install raccoon fencing

• Decide on the type of fencing, height, and material.
• Prepare the area by clearing any obstacles and marking the perimeter.
• Dig holes for posts where required, depending on the materials used for the fence.
• Install the posts and ensure they are evenly spaced apart and secured firmly in the ground. Let concrete dry a little while after the posts are set in place.
• Attach the fencing material to the posts and use staples or ties to secure the wire mesh or chain link to the posts firmly. If it's a wooden post for a PVC fence, use screws and brackets to attach PVC-coated wire mesh to the posts.
• Install additional features like a top wire or barbed wire on the fence to increase the height and make it uncomfortable for animals to try and climb over the fence. Besides, a gate should be added for easy access to the secured area.
• If the fence is electric, install the energizer following manufacturer's instructions and attach the wires to the fence.
• Finally, check the fence for stability and safety from animal invasions.

Scenarios of raccoon fencing

Raccoons are extremely intelligent and adaptable, which exposes them to invade many unprotected spaces. Some common scenarios are discussed in detailed comprehensive practical raccoon fencing that effectively deter these critters from entering any given space.

Urban gardens and backyards

Urban gardens and backyards make the ideal habitat for raccoons, as there are abundant food sources, such as bird feeders, pet food left outside, and vegetable gardens. They can also access these areas through trees or other structures. In these areas, raccoon fencing may involve a mix of wire mesh and chain link, which is sturdy, easy to install, and has minimal maintenance.

Agricultural fields

Agricultural fields have some of the most prone areas to inflicted or attacked by raccoons. These critters will hop into the fields and feast on crops, leading to tremendous financial losses to farmers. Raccoon fencing around crops should be much more robust, say an electric fence or PVC-coated wire, around the perimeter of the field to protect the crops from these vermin.

Rural or suburban homes

On rural or suburban properties, raccoon fencing can protect chickens in coops, fruit trees, and any other gardens or landscaping. A little more height may be required on these types of fences because the open space around them allows the raccoons to jump up higher. In rural areas, properties may cover a larger area, so fencing may also need to be run over longer distances and cover more ground.

Commercial properties

Commercial properties like warehouses or retail stores can also be vulnerable to raccoon invasions, especially if there's food inside or outside the building. Raccoon fencing here could be chain link or debris netting, which is quick and easy to install on large areas.

Campgrounds and cabins

Campgrounds, cabins, and holiday rentals in wooded or near water areas also attract raccoons because they easily find food in such areas. They are also left out by the owners of such residences’ minimal raccoon fencing, thus creating the need for a more effective raccoon fence. A durable wire mesh, structured around campgrounds, would help stave off the critters while offering beautiful views of the surroundings.

Specification & Maintenance of raccoon fencing

Fence specifications and details directly relate to the strength and durability of the fence against any given raccoon invasion. In addition, proper maintenance of the fence after installation is pivotal in keeping it intact and effective, so the following is all about maintenance.

Maintenance of materials

• Wire mesh:

  Wire mesh fencing is straightforward raccoon fencing in terms of maintenance. The wire is strong and does not rot; therefore, there is no need for any type of maintenance because there are no wooden posts or supports. Galvanized wire may develop rust over time, but applying a coat of galvanized wire will help reduce this. If not, use a rust-inhibiting spray to reduce corrosion.

• Chain link:

  Chain link is a strong, easy-to-handle material that requires little effort to maintain its strength. Standard chain link can easily develop rust if exposed to moisture environments without care, but PVC-coated chain link reduces that. Maintenance on PVC-coated chain link is low, but it requires some checks from time to time, such as looking for any signs of wear on the coat or cracks that may have developed over time.

• Electric fencing:

  Electric fencing is one of the toughest raccoon fencing, with little maintenance required to keep it effective. However, the wires will need a little bit of tension after everyone has a good try at it to ensure the wires remain taut. Furthermore, the energizer must be checked frequently, especially after a storm or other potential power interruption events.

• PVC-coated wire fencing:

  The coating protects the wire from rust and corrosion, making it much lower-maintenance than the galvanized equivalent. Maintainers should occasionally check the fencing for any signs of wear or damage to the coating. Check posts for rot and re-secure them if loose.

• Wooden fences:

  Wooden fences are beautiful, and with a little bit of effort, they are easy to turn into some more beautiful work of art, but they also require some protective measure work. They are typically treated with weatherproof stains or paints, but unless staining or painting is done, wood will rot or warp over time. The individual panels should be checked periodically for any loose nails or boards, and wires should be tightened to ensure the fence is closed off.

• Debris netting:

  Debris netting is a temporary fence that is affordable, lightweight, and easy to install, but it is flexible; hence, it is prone to wear and tear. Inspect for any holes or frayed edges that may be developed over time due to wind, rain, or attempts by animals to get into the area. Replace netting as required, perhaps budgeted for a couple of years' lifespan depending on severity of weather and impact.

How to replace raccoon fencing

• Identify the needs for the rickety old fence that has been in place for some time: like age, damage, or lack of effectiveness.
• Choose the new fencing material that caters to the identified need, whether it is durability, maintenance ease, or cost.
• Prepare the area surrounding the fence, and clear the area thoroughly and all the old fencing material is destroyed.
• Install a new post where the old one was and where new posts will be mounted.
• Attach the fencing material to the new post. After attaching the new fencing material, the old fencing will be completely replaced and look beautiful.

FAQs

Q1. Is a wooden fence effective against raccoons?

A1. Although a wooden fence looks sturdy and reliable, it is not entirely effective against raccoons. An animal can easily chew its way through any wooden fence, but they can't climb and jump like other animals. Therefore, a top wire may need to be added to prevent them from doing this.

Q2. Do raccoons climb up chain link fences?

A2. Raccoons are very nimble climbers, so a chain link fence is not going to stop them completely. They can easily climb it and jump over it.

Q3. How tall should a raccoon fence be?

A3. The raccoon fence needs to be at least 5 feet tall because raccoons can easily jump over any ordinary fence.

Q4. How can a raccoon fence be made stronger?

A4. The top of the raccoon fence can be made stronger by adding barbed wire. An electric wire can also be installed along the fence to make it more secure.

Q5. Are home remedies effective in keeping raccoons away from the area?

A5. Several home remedies, like placing cayenne pepper, garlic, and coffee grounds on the raccoon fencing, have shown some effect on temporary grounds. Raccoons don't like the smell and will stay away from the area for a while, but they will eventually return.