A chain link fence is an economical way to enclose a yard. Chain Link Fence New Jersey is also highly secure and easy to maintain. To start pricing your project, determine the linear footage you want to enclose. Price the mesh and top rail based on this measurement. Then decide how many corner posts and line posts will be needed.
Chain link fences are among the most durable fencing options available to homeowners. Typically made of galvanized steel or black vinyl-coated metal, they last about 15-20 years and don’t require frequent maintenance like other fence materials. They are also affordable, particularly if you choose a vinyl-coated option.
Unlike wooden fences, which require staining every few years to prevent rotting and warping, chain-link fences don’t have to be repainted or waterproofed. They are not as vulnerable to damage from storms or heavy snow either because the metal mesh is able to withstand the force of wind and weather.
These sturdy fences can be constructed from a range of materials and are available in various heights to suit a variety of applications, from a residential backyard enclosure to the protection of HVAC equipment at a commercial facility. They are often chosen for their durability and low cost compared to other fence options.
Because the metal mesh is so tightly woven, it’s difficult for trespassers to climb and even more challenging to cut through using strong pliers. Unlike other fence types that may offer privacy benefits, chain-link fencing is transparent and allows people to see what’s going on behind it, so it’s not ideal for those who place a high value on privacy.
The chain-link fence is easy to install, requiring no ultra-accurate measurement or special skills. The fabric itself comes in a wide range of gauges, mesh opening sizes and heights, and colors. You’ll also need to select the number and type of gates you require, which will impact the overall cost.
Other costs to consider include the posts, connecting metal pieces and any additional privacy elements you add. For example, you may wish to purchase a bottom tension wire, also known as coil wire, to minimize the in-and-out movement that occurs at the base of the fence between terminal posts. Some installers also add intermediate horizontal rails, referred to as top horizontal rails, for taller fences of 10 feet or more.
Once you’ve accounted for the cost of the fabric, the posts and the connecting metal pieces, you can determine the final total by adding in the price per linear foot of the top rails and any other gate options you may want to buy. You will also need a tension bar and one top rail sleeve for each post, as well as a carriage bolt for each corner post connection to the top and bottom rails.
Chain link fence is a highly effective deterrent, and in conjunction with proper installation and lockable gates, it can provide a high level of security for any property. This type of fencing is also easy to modify for different applications, and offers a wide range of options that can increase its ability as a barrier. For example, adding stainless steel barbed tape to the top or bottom of a chain link fence increases its resistance against attempts at climbing or crawling under.
Another way to improve the security of a standard chain link fence is by adding a tension wire to the bottom of the fabric. This can help prevent anyone from pushing under the fence, whether it is to steal equipment or information. This is often seen on military barracks, industrial sites, and other facilities that need to protect sensitive areas.
In addition to providing a strong barrier, chain link fences can be used to create boundaries and contain animals or people. It is often the most cost-effective solution for this purpose, and it can be easily customized for specific applications. For example, many schools use chain link to keep children from wandering off school grounds and into unsafe neighborhoods, while sports fields use it to keep baseballs, softballs, and other equipment out of the playing field.
Homeowners who want to secure their property and improve its appearance can choose from a number of color, gauge, and finish options that will meet their needs. They can also install additional features to further enhance their security, such as a bottom rail or expanded metal mesh.
In addition to choosing the height and gauge of a chain link fence, homeowners will need to consider how much material they will need to purchase. This is determined by the perimeter of the area they are looking to enclose, and will be the base for all pricing calculations. Then they will need to decide what gates, if any, they want to include. These can be added to the overall price, and are offered in a variety of styles and heights.
Compared to alternative fencing materials, chain link fences can look harsh and plain. However, with recent product innovations and design options, chain link fences can now be made to look more aesthetically pleasing.
One option for improving the appearance of a chain link fence is to cover it with slats that weave between the links. These slats come in a variety of colors and while they don’t give you 100% privacy, they can significantly reduce visibility. Another option is to add greenery or vines. While this requires some upkeep, it’s a great way to camouflage the fence and add more color and interest to your property.
Vines like ivy are quick-growing and can easily cover up the mesh of a chain link fence. Morning glory, common in backyards, is another fast-growing plant that can add both beauty and privacy. However, if you don’t want to deal with the upkeep, there are also a number of synthetic plants that can be used to cover your chain link fence. The Yaheetech Faux Ivy Privacy Screen, for example, is a great alternative that looks very realistic and will save you the time of waiting for your vines to grow.
Other ways to improve the aesthetics of a chain link fence include painting or staining it. While this is not a practical solution for homeowners, it can work well for businesses that need to protect sensitive areas of their facility. However, the added cost of these measures can make your fence more expensive than it needs to be.
If you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, try adding wrought iron or aluminum accents to your chain link fence. These are less costly than other alternatives and will still provide security for your business or home.
When it comes to pricing your chain link fence, first determine the number of feet of fencing you’ll need. Then, figure out the height of your fence based on local regulations and any other requirements you may have. Once you know the length and height of your fence, add in the price of the top rails in your chosen finish as well as any gates that you’ll need to allow access.
While chain link fences aren’t prone to significant damage like some other fencing materials, they do require regular maintenance. The key is to catch any issues early before they become more serious, and that starts with a thorough walkaround inspection of the entire length of your fence. Look for holes, bulges in the mesh, signs of tampering or abuse, and connections that are loose or pulling away from posts.
You should also check all gates to make sure they are operating properly. If a gate is sagging, or the latch looks worn or damaged, this should be fixed immediately to prevent it from falling out of operation altogether. Look for any other signs of wear, such as rust or corrosion on metal components.
If you notice any dirt buildup, pool or lawn chemicals residue, mold, mildew, or other grime, a quick rinse with soapy water should take care of it. In more severe cases, you might need to scrub it down with a brush or power washer. If you are looking to spruce up your fence, try painting it with a durable, outdoor acrylic coating that is formulated for chain link fences. Avoid painting the galvanized coating, as this can cause flaking and premature deterioration.
Using the damaged area as a guide, measure a new section of chain-link fabric to size, making it about a link or two longer than the old section. Remove the new piece from the roll of fencing by straightening out a hook on the bottom and unweaving it. Once you have the replacement section, use wire ties to hang it from the top rail.
Once you’ve got the new section hanging from the top rail, mark where it will line up with the soon-to-be-cut end of the old rail. Then use a pair of lineman’s pliers to bend the ends of the wire ties that are holding the old rail to the chain-link fabric and pull them free. Once you have the mark cut, slide the smaller, tapered end of the new rail into place and tighten it down with a rail coupling.
