24 Oct 2025 | Apex Environmental Services (UK) Ltd

Bird Netting Maintenance: 7 Tips to Keep Your Anti-Bird Net Effective

Keeping birds off your property is one thing. Keeping your bird netting in good shape so it continues doing its job - that’s another story entirely. Whether you’ve invested in netting for a warehouse, a car park, or your home, ongoing maintenance isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential.

Why? Because birds are persistent. They’ll test the netting for weaknesses, peck at frayed edges, and exploit any little tear they can find. And the weather? That’s no help either. Wind, UV rays, and rain all contribute to gradual wear. So if you want your anti-bird net to last, let’s talk maintenance - practical, real-world stuff that actually works.

1. Inspect Regularly (Seriously, Schedule It)

You’d be surprised how often people forget this part. They install the netting, pat themselves on the back, and then… nothing. Months go by, and before they know it, pigeons are nesting right under their “bird-proof” setup.

Set up a monthly or at least quarterly inspection routine. Walk the perimeter, check corners, and look closely at seams and attachment points. You’re hunting for small tears, drooping sections, or any points where the netting has pulled loose.

If you spot damage early, it’s a quick fix. Leave it too long, and you’ll end up with a costly replacement. (And possibly a few smug pigeons watching you from above.)

2. Clean Off Debris and Dirt

Bird netting can trap all sorts of things - leaves, twigs, feathers, even bits of litter if you’re near urban areas. Over time, this buildup adds weight and stretches the netting.

A quick brush-down or light spray with water can make all the difference. Use a soft broom or extendable pole rather than anything sharp, and avoid harsh detergents. If you’re working at height, safety first - use proper access equipment or hire professionals who know what they’re doing.

Keeping the netting clean doesn’t just preserve the material; it also helps it look presentable. Because let’s be honest, no one wants to look up and see a grimy mesh canopy flapping in the wind.

3. Tighten and Re-Tension When Needed

Loose netting is basically an open invitation for birds to squeeze through. The tension is what keeps your barrier effective - it needs to be taut but not stretched to the point of strain.

If you notice sagging, adjust the fixings or replace worn cables. Over time, metal anchors or clips may corrode, especially in coastal or industrial environments. Stainless steel fittings tend to last longer, so if you’re replacing parts, upgrade while you’re at it.

This is also a good time to double-check frame stability. A well-tensioned net depends on the integrity of the structure it’s attached to.

4. Repair Damage Immediately

A single small tear can become a big problem fast. Birds have a knack for turning minor gaps into fully fledged entry points.

Keep a repair kit handy - some spare netting, zip ties, and fixings. For larger issues or high-access areas, it’s worth calling in professionals who specialise in safe methods to keep birds away. They’ll not only patch things up but ensure the entire system remains compliant and secure.

The longer you wait to repair a fault, the more you risk the birds reclaiming the space. Prevention costs less than reinstallation, every single time.

5. Protect Against UV and Weather Damage

Sun exposure and moisture are silent destroyers of netting materials. Over time, UV light can weaken synthetic fibres, making them brittle and prone to tearing.

Choose UV-stabilised netting from the outset - ideally polyethylene or similar high-grade polymers. If your netting has been in place for several years, inspect it for fading, thinning, or stiffness. Those are early signs it’s time for replacement.

In areas prone to heavy winds or storms, reinforce corners and ensure all fixings are rated for outdoor use. Remember, it’s not the netting itself that usually fails - it’s the bits holding it together.

6. Keep an Eye on the Surrounding Environment

Even the best netting can’t compensate for nearby hazards. Overhanging branches, scaffolding, or unsealed openings can give birds new entry routes.

Trim any vegetation touching the netting - it’ll prevent birds from gaining leverage and reduce debris buildup. Also, check that new installations (like air conditioning units or signage) haven’t compromised your coverage.

This kind of environmental awareness is one of those small, unglamorous things that keep your system running smoothly for years.

7. Get a Professional Health Check Once a Year

There’s no shame in calling for backup. Even if you handle minor cleaning and adjustments yourself, a professional inspection once a year helps catch the things you might miss.

Specialists can test net tension, evaluate anchor safety, and make sure everything still complies with UK safety standards. They’ll also advise on upgrades or replacements if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Think of it like an MOT for your bird netting - quick, preventative, and a lot cheaper than letting things fall apart.

A Final Thought: Maintenance is Prevention

Bird netting isn’t just about blocking access; it’s a deterrent system that needs to stay reliable. Skipping inspections or repairs means giving nature a head start, and birds are nothing if not persistent.

If you’re considering upgrading, or you’d rather explore safe alternatives like bird netting, take a look at Apex Bird Control’s range of options. Their anti-bird systems are designed to be humane, durable, and tailored to your site’s specific needs.

Ultimately, maintaining your bird netting isn’t complicated - it’s just consistency, care, and the occasional bit of common sense. And if it spares you from another pigeon invasion? That’s a win.