Deer fences, like their name suggests, are types of fences that are designed to keep deer and other large animals out of a specific area. Because this is a function that normal residential fences do not perform, deer fences have a number of distinctive features. There are two main types of deer fences, electric and polypropylene mesh, which both work differently to keep deer out. Understanding the differences between the two main types of deer fences can help make choosing the best deer fence for your needs easier.

Electric Deer Fences

Electric deer fencing is the most common type of deer fencing option, because they tend to be fairly affordable fencing options. When first installed, bait is applied to attract deer to the fence, where they will then be shocked by the fence, gradually teaching them to stay away from the boundaries. There are two main types of electric deer fences: vertical and slanted.

Vertical electric deer fences are constructed straight upwards, like a regular fence, usually to a height of five to ten feet. The main benefit is that they can be more easily installed in areas of heavy underbrush, and they are also much less expensive to have installed than their slanted counterparts.

Slanted electric deer fences are constructed at a thirty degree angle, and as such take up much more space. However, they are much better at keeping deer out of your yard, as they are harder to clear by simply jumping over. However, slanted electric deer fences are more expensive to install than vertical ones, and take up more space, which makes them harder to install in areas with lots of plant growth.

Polypropylene Mesh Deer Fences

Polypropylene mesh deer fences are an unpowered alternative to electric deer fences that simply create a physical barrier that keeps deer out. Polypropylene mesh is almost invisible at a distance, which makes them ideal in areas where you do not want to alter the view. However, polypropylene mesh deer fencing is more expensive to install than electric deer fences, and requires more maintenance, as deer are free to make contact with it, unlike electric fences. Furthermore, polypropylene mesh varies in quality and price, with higher quality and more durable fencing costing significantly more than budget options. While this does mean that you can customize your polypropylene fence to match your budget, it also means that lower quality materials will likely degrade and fail over time due to wear and tear. Contact a fencing company like Holman Fence LLC for more information on fence options.