How to Unroll Chicken Wire

Ever wondered how to unroll chicken wire? Below you can find step-by-step instructions on how to do it yourself.

• Experience Required: Low
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Wire cutters, Stone or brick, Tape measure (optional), Marker (optional)
• Materials Required: Chicken Wire Mesh

Step 1) Lay It Flat

• Choose a flat, open area free of obstacles.
• Position the roll on its side, ensuring it is ready for further handling.

 

Step 2) Cut the Thin Wire to Open

• In the process of how to unroll chicken wire, use wire cutters and carefully cut the thin ties holding the roll together.
• Hold the roll firmly throughout the process to prevent it from springing open.

Step 3) Unroll Chicken Wire

• Begin unrolling chicken wire slowly by pulling the loose end straight out from the roll.
• Work on a small section at a time, smoothing it out as you progress.

Step 4) Unfold Edges

• Gently straighten the curled edges of the chicken netting by unfolding them with your hands or pliers.

Step 5) Flatten the Mesh

• To reduce curling, gently press the chicken mesh down with your hands while wearing gloves.
• Bend the loose end backward and, if necessary, roll the mesh briefly in the opposite direction to help it lay flatter.

Step 6) Weight It Down

• When unrolling chicken wire, place heavy objects such as stones or bricks on the ends and corners to keep it flat and stable, preventing it from curling.

 

Step 7) Measure & Mark (optional)

• Measure and mark the desired lengths of the chicken netting with a permanent marker.

Step 8) Cut to Size (optional)

• Use wire cutters to trim the mesh along the markings to the appropriate size.

Tips and Tricks

• If you find any twists or bends in the netting, carefully work them out by hand, or use pliers if the netting is particularly stubborn.
• Bend any sharp ends inward with pliers to prevent injury.
• In the process of how to unroll chicken wire, having a second person to hold it in place is helpful, or you can use weight (stones or bricks) to prevent it from rolling back.
• If the netting is too curled, you can roll it backward (opposite to how it was packaged) for a few feet to reduce the spring effect and help it lay flatter.
• Select an appropriate gauge (thickness) for your project – a thicker one for durability or a thinner one for flexibility.
• For easier cuts, use heavy-duty wire cutters and bolt cutters.

FURTHER READING

• Cutting Chicken Wire – A guide showing you how to cut a poultry netting.
• How to Attach Chicken Wire to Bottom of Fence – Learn how to attach poultry netting to bottom of fence.
• How to Build a Chicken Wire Garden Fence – Step by step instructions on how to build a garden fence.

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