Height Matters: How Tall Should Your Fence Be to Keep Out Deer?

When we think about protecting our gardens, landscapes, and crops from deer, one of the first questions that comes to mind is ‘What type of fence is best to keep out deer?’. The answer to this question is often tied closely to the height of the fence. As someone deeply entrenched in the world of deer fencing, we at Deer Fencing.com understand that not all fences are created equal, and the height of your chosen fence plays a pivotal role in its effectiveness.

Understanding Deer Behavior

Before we delve into ideal heights, it’s crucial to understand deer behavior. Deer are agile creatures, capable of jumping great heights. In fact, a mature white-tailed deer can leap over obstacles as high as 8 feet. However, most deer will typically attempt to clear fences that are between 6 to 7 feet tall. Hence, when we contemplate the right height for our fences, we must consider this jumping capability.

What we’ve witnessed over the years, through countless installations and customer interactions, is that a fence height of 8 feet is often the sweet spot. It not only deters most deer but also offers a buffer against younger, less experienced deer who may not yet possess the confidence to jump such heights.

Choosing the Right Type of Fence

When pondering what type of fence is best to keep out deer, we find that material and construction matter as much as height. The most effective deer fencing solutions often utilize a combination of both height and the right materials.

Our premium poly deer fencing, for example, boasts an impressive strength of 700 to 1400 pounds of breaking strength per square foot. This means that not only does it stand tall against deer, but its flexibility allows it to withstand the pushing and prodding from these curious creatures. Because our poly fencing is semi-rounded, it can often be suspended from both posts and trees, making it nearly invisible from a distance. This invisibility not only enhances the aesthetic quality of your property but also prevents deer from gauging the actual height of the fence, making them less likely to attempt a jump.

On the other hand, if you prefer metal fencing, we recommend black welded wire deer fencing. This type of fencing offers a small opening size that effectively excludes deer while being strong enough to resist their attempts to push through. The key is to ensure that the openings aren’t too large; we never recommend any fencing with an opening size greater than 2″x4″.

Installation Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

Once we’ve determined the appropriate height and type of fencing, the next step involves proper installation. It’s essential to ensure that the fence is taut and securely anchored to the ground. Deer are notorious for attempting to dig underneath a fence, so we suggest burying the bottom of the fence at least 6 inches into the ground or using ground stakes to secure it further.

Another effective tactic we’ve seen is the incorporation of a ground overlap. This means allowing the fencing to extend outward at the base, which can deter deer from attempting to dig under. Additionally, utilizing angled climb protection can prevent deer from trying to leap over the fence altogether.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Even the best deer fencing can succumb to wear and tear over time. Therefore, regular maintenance is a crucial part of ensuring your fence remains effective. We encourage our customers to frequently inspect their fencing for any signs of damage or sagging. If you notice any sections that have become loose or compromised, addressing these issues promptly can prevent deer from discovering weaknesses in your defense.

We also recommend keeping the area around your fence clear of any debris or overhanging branches, as these can provide deer with a boost to clear your fence. By maintaining a clean perimeter, we can significantly reduce the chances of deer finding a way over or through our fences.

Conclusion: Investing in the Right Fence

In conclusion, when seeking to answer the question, “What type of fence is best to keep out deer?”, we find that it’s not solely about the materials or the height but rather a combination of both. A fence height of 8 feet is generally recommended, constructed from durable materials like our poly or welded wire options, and installed with care to ensure longevity and effectiveness.

At DeerFencing.com, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, effective fencing solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers. We understand the challenges that come with deer management, and we’re here to help you navigate these challenges with confidence. By investing in the right fence, we can protect our landscapes and gardens, ensuring they flourish for years to come.

If you’re ready to take the next step in securing your property, we invite you to explore our range of fencing options, or contact us for a personalized consultation. Together, we can create a beautiful and deer-proof environment that you can truly enjoy.