If you’re considering anti-bird netting for your property, one of the first questions you might have is: How long does it last? After all, you want a solution that’s not only effective but also durable and cost-efficient.
The lifespan of bird netting depends on several factors, including the type of material used, weather conditions, and whether it was professionally installed. In this post, we’ll break down what affects the longevity of bird netting and how you can ensure yours lasts as long as possible.
Typical Lifespan of Anti-Bird Netting
High-quality bird netting can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the material and environmental conditions. Some premium netting can even last up to 15 years if well maintained and installed correctly.
However, lower-quality netting or DIY installations may start to deteriorate within just a few years, especially if exposed to harsh weather or heavy bird activity. You can learn about common pest birds in UK and then take appropriate action with your solution.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Bird Netting
1. Material Quality
The type of material used plays a huge role in how long bird netting lasts.
- Polyethylene (HDPE) Netting: One of the most durable options, designed to be UV-resistant and weatherproof. Can last 10+ years with proper care.
- Nylon Netting: Strong but less resistant to UV damage, meaning it can weaken and break down faster, typically lasting 5-7 years.
- Metal Mesh Netting: Often made from stainless steel, this is the most durable choice, lasting decades, but it’s more expensive and used in specific situations.
2. UV Resistance & Weather Conditions
Sun exposure is one of the biggest threats to bird netting. UV rays can weaken the fibres over time, causing them to become brittle and break.
- UV-Stabilised Netting – Designed to withstand prolonged sun exposure and last much longer.
- Harsh Weather Conditions – High winds, heavy rain, and snow can wear down netting faster, especially if it’s not secured properly.
3. Professional vs. DIY Installation
How the netting is installed plays a big role in its longevity.
- Professional Installation – Ensures the netting is securely tensioned, properly anchored, and positioned to withstand the elements.
- DIY Installation – If netting is loosely fitted or has weak anchor points, it’s more likely to sag, tear, or degrade quickly.
4. Bird Activity & Pressure
If your property has a heavy bird presence, the netting will experience more stress. Birds trying to land or nest in the netting can cause gradual wear and tear.
- Thicker, Stronger Netting – Needed for areas with high bird activity to prevent holes and damage.
- Regular Inspections – Help identify weak spots before they become a problem.
Can Anti-Bird Netting Hurt Birds?
While most people want to keep birds away from their property, they don’t want to hurt them. Therefore, they search for humane ways to deter them from nesting and causing havoc. Thankfully, this is exactly what anti-bird netting can do. It creates a barrier that birds can’t get through, which allows you to have a secure property without having to harm the species. Therefore, you can enjoy peace of mind that anti-bird netting isn’t going to hurt birds. But, there are a few things you need to know. Let’s take a look at what they are.
Professional Installation Recommended
To ensure that the anti-bird netting remains secure, you must have it installed by professionals. They have all of the right fixings and tools to ensure that it’s stable and secure to your building. This is what’s going to make it safe for birds. If there are areas that aren’t taut or are loose, birds could get entangled and hurt.
Choose the Right Mesh Size
There are various mesh sizes when it comes to anti-bird netting. You need to know the size of the species that is causing you trouble. If you choose a mesh size that’s too big, you could allow small birds through. Then, they could get stuck and hurt trying to escape. Therefore, consider what the problem is that you’re trying to resolve. You can also seek professional advice, and they can choose the correct size.
Look for Damage
After bad weather, it’s advised that you inspect the mesh to make sure it’s not damaged. When there are rips and holes, this is when birds could get entangled. Thus, you want to address any damage straight away to avoid problems.
Anti-bird netting is a fantastic long-term solution for keeping birds away, but its lifespan depends on the quality of the material, the installation process, and regular maintenance. Investing in durable, UV-resistant netting and professional installation can ensure your netting lasts 10+ years, saving you time and money in the long run.
If you want to keep your property bird-free for years to come, make sure to choose high-quality netting and take care of it with proper inspections and maintenance.