Poultry Post Buyer's Guide

Purpose: Depending on how you plan to use the posts, different materials are recommended. Wood and recycled plastic posts are best suited for permanent fences, though they have a higher initial cost. Line posts are ideal for permanent or occasionally moved fences, while plastic posts are perfect for mobile fencing. For simplicity, a poultry net (chicken net) that is quick and easy to set up is a great option.

Fence Height: The right height for your poultry fence depends on the type of birds you keep. Heavier breeds tend to fly less, while lighter breeds are more flight-prone. Therefore, the type and breed of poultry play a crucial role in determining fence height:

• Heavy meat breeds are typically too heavy to fly, so a fence height of 1 metre is sufficient.
• Medium-weight breeds, which also don’t tend to fly, require a fence height of 1.2 to 1.5 metres.
• Small, lightweight breeds are much more inclined to fly, so a fence height of at least 1.8 metres is needed, and 2 metres is even better.

On average, an electric conductor should be installed every 20 cm vertically to prevent adult birds from slipping through the fence.

Durability: If the poultry fence is intended for long-term use, weather- and UV-resistant materials that are highly durable are essential. This will ensure the posts remain securely in place around the enclosure for many years without requiring maintenance. All our posts are of superior quality and do not need additional protective treatments. You can find details about durability and manufacturer warranties in the product descriptions.

Cost: The cost of posts varies depending on the material, brand, and quality. Plastic posts are significantly cheaper than wood but don’t last as long. We offer many manufacturers across a range of price categories, so you have a wide selection to choose from and can find the perfect posts for your poultry fence.

Types of materials available

Plastic: Plastic posts are the most commonly used option for mobile fences. They are lightweight, easy to transport and set up, and often come with integrated holders for electric fence wires. Plastic posts are highly weather- and UV-resistant and are available in various heights and lengths.

Line Posts: These line posts combine the benefits of plastic and fibreglass. With a fibreglass core and a UV-resistant polyethylene coating, line posts are sturdy, flexible, durable, and lightweight. They are versatile due to adjustable clips and insulators, which can be positioned at different heights depending on the type of poultry. These posts are ideal for both permanent and temporary fences as they can be set up and dismantled multiple times.

Wood: A classic chicken fence is built with Insultimber wooden posts. In addition to being highly stable and long-lasting (up to 30 years), they are visually appealing and environmentally friendly. The material is resistant to fungal decay and requires no maintenance, making it an excellent choice for permanent fences.

Recycled Plastic: An eco-friendly alternative that offers all the advantages of wooden posts, plus added resistance to UV light, acids, alkalis, and rot. This makes recycled plastic posts ideal for permanent poultry fences. Since these posts are made from recycled plastic, they contribute to environmental protection while also being financially sustainable due to their longevity.

Our manufacturers of high-quality electric fence posts

Gallagher, e.g., for Insultimber, line posts, eco posts, and plastic posts
Pulsara, e.g., for affordable plastic posts