A key part of installing a fence is ensuring precise fencing measurement and accurate fence cutting. With welded wire mesh panel fences, this is seldom necessary. 

However, with fence products that come in rolls, such as the Betafence Pantanet Essential Fence Rolls, DIY fence measurement and material cutting are required to get a perfect boundary.

Make Sure You Have the Right Tools

A reliable measuring tape (preferably a lockable one) is essential, as well as either some chalk or a marker. You will also need a straight edge, such as a metal ruler or a piece of wood, and a wire or bolt cutter.

Measure Carefully

Stretch the measuring tape along the length or width of the Pantanet Essential Fence Roll and mark the desired measurement at multiple points along the edge using chalk or a marker. 

As the saying goes, "Measure twice, cut once." Therefore, double-check all your measurements before marking the mesh to avoid errors, as once you have made the cut, you cannot undo it.

Secure the Mesh Roll Before Cutting

Mesh rolls need to be rolled out flat to get an accurate measurement. Use clamps or heavy weights to achieve this. 

It's crucial to ensure that the surface is large enough to support the full length of the unrolled mesh for better accuracy. Typically, this will have to be done outside on the grass or inside a large workshop.

Cut Along a Straight Guide

This is where the straight edge comes in. Align the straight edge along the marked measurement lines to provide a guide for your cutting tool. Make sure that the straight edge doesn’t move by applying clamps or heavy weights to keep it in place.

Once this is done, use wire cutters to cut through the Pantanet Essential Fence Roll wires. 

If you are cutting multiple rolls to the same size, you can use the first one as a template to help save time and maintain consistency.

Cut slowly along the marked lines to ensure precision and avoid damaging the PVC coating. Keeping the blades of your cutting tool sharp will help prevent frayed or uneven edges. 

Smooth Out the Cut Edges and Touch Up

Once you have cut the fence to size, take a file or some sandpaper and smooth out any rough areas. You don’t want to have any sharp wire ends or jagged PVC coating sticking out, as this can be unsightly and dangerous.

As a final touch, apply some PVC touch-up paint to the cut edges to protect them from corrosion.

Ready to start your DIY fence project? Explore Betafence's Pantanet Essential Fence Rolls and other high-quality products on our online store. For personalized assistance, contact our team today!

FAQs and Answers

1. What tools do I need to cut Pantanet Essential Fence Rolls?
   You’ll need a measuring tape, chalk or marker, a straight edge, and wire or bolt cutters. Clamps or weights help hold the mesh steady.

2. Can I cut the fence rolls without unrolling them fully?
   It’s not recommended. For accurate measurements and safe cutting, always unroll the mesh fully and secure it flat on a surface.

3. How do I ensure straight cuts on the mesh roll?
   Use a straight edge (like a metal ruler or wood piece) as a guide, and secure it in place with clamps before cutting with wire cutters.

4. Will cutting the fence damage the PVC coating?
   If done carefully with sharp tools, damage is minimal. Cut slowly and avoid dragging the tool to preserve the PVC coating.

5. What should I do after cutting the fence?
   Smooth sharp edges with a file or sandpaper, and apply PVC touch-up paint to protect the cut ends from rust or corrosion.

6. Can I reuse a cut piece of fence as a template?
   Yes. If you’re cutting multiple rolls to the same length, using the first cut piece as a template can save time and ensure consistency.

7. Where is the best place to cut fence rolls?
   Use a large, flat area—ideally outdoors or in a spacious workshop. Ensure the full mesh roll can lie flat without curves or folds.

8. Is DIY cutting suitable for all Betafence products?
   No. Cutting is usually needed for rolled products like Pantanet Essential. Pre-sized panel systems often don’t require cutting.