Some of the most important work in an exclusion fence happens at ground level. When rabbits or other digging pests are the problem, bottom-of-fence details such as aprons or skirts can make the difference between a barrier that works and one that gets breached repeatedly.
Ground-Level Design Deserves More Attention
Pests often test the easiest point first, which is why low spots, soft edges, and disturbed soil around gates deserve close attention. A fence with strong line construction can still underperform if the bottom detail is not suited to the site.
Aprons and skirts are intended to make digging more difficult or less rewarding. The best option depends on soil conditions, pressure level, and whether the area can be inspected and maintained easily after installation.
WA properties with variable soil movement, seasonal cracking, or sandy sections may need especially careful consideration at the bottom edge of the fence.
Key Points To Check
Bottom treatments should be chosen with the terrain and maintenance routine in mind.
- Inspect the full fence line for soft spots, low points, and disturbed approaches.
- Use consistent detailing at gates and corners so pests do not find the easiest alternative path.
- Review the fence after ground movement or washouts to catch new vulnerabilities early.
- Treat repeated digging attempts as useful information about where pressure is concentrated.
Exclusion fences often fail first where the ground detail was assumed to be good enough.
Solve The Problem Where It Starts
When digging pests are active, focusing on the lower section of the fence is often the smartest place to invest time and materials. Small upgrades in the right areas can have a significant effect on performance.
If pest activity keeps returning to the same part of the line, it is worth reviewing the ground-level detail before assuming the entire fence needs rebuilding.