Whether you’re securing your backyard or defining property lines, chain link fencing is an economical choice for a sturdy barrier that can deter both two- and four-legged intruders. Read on to learn more about the components and details that make up this versatile fence style.
Chain link fence materials can come in several finishes. Galvanized is the reliable workhorse, dipped in zinc before being woven into the familiar diamond pattern. Vinyl-coated offers the same durability with added aesthetics. Contact Fencing Colorado Springs for professional help.
When most people think of chain link fencing, they imagine a industrial security fence, but there are many options for residential use as well. With the addition of vinyl coating, color choices and other design elements, chain link can blend in with landscapes and enhance home aesthetics.
The main component of any chain link fence is the mesh fabric, formed from galvanized wires interlinked in a familiar diamond pattern. This mesh can vary in height and thickness, depending on its intended usage. The rest of the fence is composed of posts, a top rail and tension wires that provide support and stability.
For added privacy and visual appeal, homeowners can add privacy slats to their chain link fence. These slats can be woven in either a vertical or diagonal direction, and come in various colors. While they don’t offer 100% privacy, slats can drastically reduce visibility. Another option for enhancing the aesthetic of a chain link fence is to grow vines or other greenery. The resulting fusion of flora and fencing creates a beautiful, natural look that can boost the curb appeal of any home.
A bottom rail is a great way to finish off a chain link fence, and it helps prevent small animals from digging under the fence (which can also happen with wooden privacy and trellised fencing). For an extra-finished look, a decorative post cap can be installed on the end of each tension wire.
Another way to enhance the aesthetic of a chain link fence is by using different gauges of wire. Thicker wires are stronger and more durable than thinner ones, and they’re also harder for unauthorized people to crawl under.
For an extra level of durability, aluminized chains can be purchased. These chains have a higher corrosion resistance that stands up against salt spray and other harsh environments that would quickly damage standard metals.
Like the classic pickup truck, galvanized steel chainlink is a reliable workhorse that gets the job done every time. However, if you want to upgrade your chainlink fence’s appearance while still getting the same functionality, consider a vinyl or polymer coating. This coating process wraps a PVC jacket around galvanized wire, providing double protection from the elements and making it even more resistant to rusting.
Durability
Chain link fences stand up to a variety of environmental pressures. The galvanized steel material is resilient against external forces such as strong winds and physical impact, making them ideal for areas prone to harsh weather conditions. Modern welding techniques make the connections between wires stronger and more durable, ensuring that the fence can resist strain without buckling or breaking. Additionally, the fence’s open mesh design allows visibility so property owners can monitor activity without compromising security.
The components that define a quality chain link fence include the framework, mesh fabric, and posts. The fence’s framework consists of steel tubing that acts as posts and creates a frame for the mesh fabric to hang from. Posts are then placed into the ground and secured with concrete, forming the foundation of the fence. The mesh fabric is made of galvanized steel strands that are interlocked and woven into a flexible yet sturdy barrier. The strands are available in various gauges, with lower numbers indicating thicker and more durable wire. The top rail is typically a metal or vinyl-coated material, adding additional protection against wear and tear.
A high-quality fence requires regular maintenance to preserve its structural integrity. Regular inspections for rust, loose ties, or bent posts allow property owners to identify and address issues before they worsen. Routine cleaning and application of rust inhibitors prevent corrosion, while keeping vegetation trimmed reduces stress on the fence. Adding additional security enhancements like barbed wire or privacy slats deters intruders, and lockable gates offer added convenience for authorized personnel.
A good chain link fence supplier can help you find a solution that best matches your property’s needs and budget. Consult with a fencing professional to determine which materials are most appropriate for your space, and then consider features that will complement the chain link’s basic construction. For example, if you’re building a school playground, opt for a higher fence that offers more security while still providing a clear view of outdoor activities.
Security
The physical barrier created by a chain link fence deters unwanted intruders while providing peace of mind to those who live or work on the property. In addition, the open structure provides unobstructed visibility, making it easy for security cameras and personnel to spot any suspicious activity. Adding gate controls like keycard readers or intercoms allows you to regulate and monitor who enters your property. Integrating motion-activated lights along the fence line can also help deter crime and act as a warning for potential intruders.
For added security, consider incorporating barbed wire or razor coils into the fence. These enhancements are not only visually intimidating, but they can be quite lethal to anyone who attempts to climb the fence or penetrate it through a hole. To maximize effectiveness, ensure that these extensions are firmly secured using sturdy brackets. Regular inspection and maintenance is also vital to guarantee that they function as intended.
In order to increase the strength of a chain link fence, opt for steel fittings instead of cast aluminum, which is easier to manipulate. The more durable steel fittings can be tack welded in place after the installation process, making it harder to tamper with or remove the fence. For maximum safety, choose fittings that have been galvanized to prevent rust and corrosion.
Unlike wrought iron or vinyl, chain link fencing is affordable and easy to maintain, saving homeowners time and money on upkeep. It does not require painting or staining, but should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. In the event that repairs are needed, it is quick and simple to replace damaged parts with new ones.
One drawback of chain link fencing is its inability to reduce noise, which can be a nuisance in busy urban areas or suburban cul-de-sacs. However, this can be offset by utilizing an intrusion detection system that will alert you if someone or something tries to break into your property. Opting for weatherproof cameras that can tell the difference between people and animals will minimize false alarms, ensuring that your investment is protected.
Maintenance
Chain link fences are among the sturdiest, most reliable home fencing options available. However, like other kinds of fencing materials, they need proper upkeep to fight against corrosion, disrepair, and other problems that could shorten their lifespans.
Consistent inspections are the best way to identify and address minor issues before they grow out of hand. These inspections should focus on rust, broken or missing components, and signs of wear and tear, including stretched or snapped links or holes in the mesh.
Regular lubrication is also important for the smooth functioning of hinges, latches, and other components. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to these parts on a regular basis to prevent friction-related damage and extend their longevity.
Even though chain link fences are galvanized to resist rust, they can still corrode over time, especially if their coating is compromised. If you spot any rust spots on your chain link fence, start by washing the affected area with your garden hose on its highest pressure setting. Then, rinse it again with a lower pressure setting to remove any remaining debris and dirt.
Once the fence has dried, you can begin to repair the damaged sections by identifying exactly where the damage starts and ends. Then, use your linesman’s pliers to untwist the wires in the affected area, saving the removed portions as you go. You can then replace the section of the fence that has been compromised with a new, properly-tensioned piece.
While a chain link fence provides security and efficiency, it is not the most visually appealing or private type of fencing. Fortunately, several DIY chain link fence upgrades can make your home’s security fence more aesthetically pleasing and homier.
One option is to add chain link slats, which weave in between the fence’s vertical or diagonal wires. These slats come in a variety of colors and are designed to limit visibility while adding a decorative touch. If you’re willing to invest the time and energy, you can also add vines, plants, or other greenery to your chain link fence. While this won’t provide 100% privacy, it will significantly reduce visibility and make your property look more welcoming.