What do snakes and magnets have in common? No, snakes aren’t hiding some sort of magnetic power and no, magnets do not have some secret reptilian ingredient. The magnets versus snake issue came to our attention here at AMF Magnetics when one of our loyal customers asked us how she could build a snake-proof fence using magnets to attach the wire.
So, if you live where snakes are a threat, read on. These are some of the solutions we came up with to create a strong, sturdy, snake-proof fence using some simple magnetic strategies.
Creating a snake-proof fence or gate using magnetic strips or adhesive magnetic tape involves strategically securing the mesh or fencing material to prevent gaps or weaknesses where snakes could slip through. So, let’s look at some solutions.
One approach would be to use A and B matching tapes that bond to each other directly and are also weatherproof. They would require additional strong outdoor backing glue to be sure they stay bonded to the post and the inner side of the gate mesh. Click on these link s for more information and keep reading to see how this simple solution would work, not just on snake repelling, but all sorts of gates and closures.
Magnetic A and B Adhesive Tape:
- Option 1: Securing Fencing Panels to Gates or Posts
Magnetic A and B adhesive tape is designed to pair together, with one side adhering to the fence and the other to the gate or post. This creates a strong, gap-free seal. Applying the tape ensures that the mesh or fence edges remain tightly connected, especially in areas that may expand or contract, such as gates that open and close frequently.
- Option 2: Reinforcing Mesh Edges
Use magnetic tape along the edges of mesh panels to seal them securely to metallic gates or posts. This prevents snakes from squeezing through loose or open edges. The adhesive backing makes installation simple and durable.
- For non-adhesive solutions, magnetic strips can be used to hold fencing materials in place on metallic surfaces. These are especially useful for temporary or semi-permanent fencing setups. Simply align the strip along the fence edge and the corresponding metallic surface for a firm attachment.
- Choose Fine Mesh Fencing: Ensure the mesh size is small enough that even the smallest snakes cannot pass through. A gap size of 1/4 inch or less is recommended.
- Seal All Edges: Use magnetic tape or strips to cover any areas where the fence meets the ground, gates, or posts. Snakes are adept at finding weak spots, so a continuous seal is critical.
- Ground Anchoring: Secure the bottom edge of the fence to the ground to prevent snakes from burrowing underneath. Magnetic tape can supplement other anchoring methods by sealing gaps near the base.
By using magnetic tape and strips to secure mesh fencing and gates, you can create a snake-proof barrier that is both effective and easy to install. These materials provide flexibility for temporary setups and reliability for permanent installations.
There is another form of magnetic tape that could also be used to keep gates secure.
It’s called anisotropic tape, a flexible tape that is magnetic on both sides and weatherproof. Anisotropic strip magnets are often used in closures and fastening applications. For example, they can be found in magnetic door seals, cabinet latches, and refrigerator door gaskets. The strong magnetic force helps keep doors and cabinets securely closed.
You may need to glue the magnetic tape to the gate post as the mesh is not an ideal flat metal surface for the magnet to bond onto strongly. The snake mesh may bond to it if you flatten it as best you can, or you may need to sandwich it with another magnetic strip on top:
https://magnet.com.au/products/magnetic-strip-1000mm-x-30mm-x-10mm-anisotropic
This magnetic strip is made from Strontium or Barium ferrite powder within a polymer matrix, and these magnetic strips provide good demagnetisation resistance and reasonable resistance to chemical agents.
So, if you have a specific challenge, we have a team of experts who will rise to the occasion. Magnets are incredible devices and can solve so many application problems. You just need a little imagination, a lot of expertise – that’s where the AMF Magnetics team can help – and the right magnetic product.
We can’t wrangle snakes, but we can think outside the square, so before you put your challenging task in the too hard basket, reach out to the team at AMF Magnetics and we’ll come up with a brilliant, practical solution.
