Understanding Chain Link Fencing

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• Budget Friendly – From manufacturing to installation to maintenance, you will not incur a lot of expenses with chain link fences and gates, because the material and labor cost for the installation is cheaper. And since you don’t have to reapply paint or stain to chain link fencing like you need to with wooden fencing, you also save on upkeep costs.

• High Durability – This type of fence is incredibly tough, as it’s made from interlocking coated steel wire and galvanized with a corrosion-resistant zinc coating to protect it against the weather. Plus, because the wind passes through the openings, the material is far less susceptible to weather-related damage.

• Low Maintenance – When properly installed, this fencing requires minimal maintenance. Thanks to galvanized, aluminized, or vinyl coating, chain link fencing won’t rust or gather dirt.

• Versatility – Chain-link fences are incredibly adaptable and commonly used in both commercial and residential properties. You can find them in front yards, sports fields, around swimming pools, and establishing property lines. Also, if you use PVC-coated fencing, like black chain link fencing, you can choose a color that complements your home or business.

• High Security – This strong steel fencing can create a secure barrier, keeping out anyone who shouldn’t be on your property. The fence can be built to a significant height and additional deterrents, such as barbed wire, can be added at the top to prevent climbing.

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• Overall Dimensions – The size of your fence helps determine the materials required and how much labor is needed to get the job done. The price per foot can change dramatically depending on the height and material type you choose.

• Diamond Size – Much of the appeal of a chain link fence comes from the simple but still decorative diamond-shaped pattern formed by twisted wire. Measured on the inside of the diamond in both diagonal directions, smaller diamonds result in stronger fences that are more expensive because they require more wire to twist to make the fence. Larger diamonds are less secure, but also less expensive. We typically stock and install 2-inch fabric in both commercial and residential settings.

• Gauge or Mesh Thickness – The gauge measurement represents the thickness of the wire that creates the mesh of a chain link fence. The numbers are inverse to the gauge—lower numbers equal thicker wire. Measurements run from 6 gauge, which is the thickest gauge available, to 11 gauge. Thicker gauges are sturdier and stronger, and therefore cost more, while higher gauges offer a lighter, less visible fence and are less expensive. The most common gauge we have on hand is 11 gauge or 9 gauge. Feel free to give us a call to see what is available!

• Post and Rail Gauge – The thickness of posts and rails are another factor to consider. The pipe used for posts and top rails can range from 16 gauge tubing up to 40 gauge pipe. Higher gauges can be driven into the ground in some cases, while lower gauges have to be set in concrete. The diameter of these posts and rails can also range depending on the type of project you have. For something like a backyard, you may only need tubing as small as 1 ⅜” for your top rail with slightly larger posts. For more industrial projects that require more security, something as large as 2 ⅞” pipe may be needed for line posts and can require even larger and heavier posts for gates.

• Gates – Be sure to consider whether you will need gate access through your new fence. Knowing what type and size of chain link gate you will need takes a little planning ahead. The three main chain link gate options are swing gates, cantilever gates, and rolling gates. They can range in size and offer different types of access. If you need help deciding what kind of gate will work best for your project, we are happy to help you come up with a solution based on your layout.

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• ​​​​​​Perimeter Fence – If you want an easy way to mark the boundaries of your property, chain link is the way to go. Whether you’re a business owner trying to control access to certain areas or a homeowner trying to keep children or animals safely enclosed within the yard, chain link allows you to define the border around your property.

• Security Fence – Unlike other materials that can completely impede your view of what’s happening on the other side, chain link fence allows you to maintain your visibility outside of the property. In areas where enhanced security is required, such as airports, military bases, correctional facilities, or industrial factories, barbed wire or razor wire can be added to minimize the ability to penetrate the enclosed area.

• Park or School Fence – Schools and parks across the country rely on chain link fencing to create safe and secure barriers around them. Chain link fence provides school children a clearly defined space for their play and delivers peace of mind for parents and school administrators.

• Animal Enclosures – Chain link is a great option if you’re trying to create a safe and secure dog run or outdoor kennel. Installing an enclosure for your dog can give your pet the outdoor time they crave while you rest easy knowing that they’re contained, safe, and getting some exercise.

• Athletic Fields – Chain link fencing comes in handy at baseball parks and other sports complexes to mark boundaries for players and fans and establish a secure perimeter around the stadium. It also adds height to the stadium to protect guests from foul balls and other debris.

 

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