Why chain link is still so common
Chain link is made from steel wire woven into a diamond-shaped mesh and hung on metal posts and rails. It is a long-standing choice for yards, schools, ball fields and utility sites because it is practical and straightforward. It is rarely anyone’s favorite for looks, but it does several jobs well. This article covers the tradeoffs; a broader overview is available in the guide to chain link fencing.
Advantages
Low cost. Chain link is typically among the less expensive permanent fence types per foot, which is why it often shows up in budget fencing plans. Actual prices vary by height, gauge, coating and region, so compare written quotes for like-for-like specifications.
Durability. Steel wire with a protective coating can last for many years with little attention. It does not rot, and insects do not damage it. How long it lasts depends on the quality of the coating and the local climate.
Low maintenance. There is no staining or repainting. You mainly check for loose ties, bent sections and damage to the coating, and clear vines and debris so they do not add weight or hide wear.
Visibility and airflow. The open mesh lets light and wind pass, so it works in sunny yards, and it does not catch wind the way solid panels do. This is a plus on exposed sites, as the guide on wind load explains for open designs in general.
Practical for pets and kids. A chain link fence is good for keeping dogs and children inside a yard, especially at a height suited to your animal. Dogs that climb, jump or dig may still need extra measures, which are covered in dig-proof fence advice.
Fast installation. Standard parts and a simple structure make installation relatively quick. It also copes better than some materials with changes in slope, since the mesh can follow the ground fairly closely. Check the guide on sloped ground fencing for the specifics.
Disadvantages
Plain appearance. Many homeowners find it utilitarian. In a neighborhood with a stronger visual style, or one with HOA design rules, it may be restricted or disliked. Coatings and landscaping can soften the look, but it is unlikely to become a showpiece.
Little privacy. The open mesh offers almost none. People can see in and out.
Security limits. The mesh can be climbed using the diamond openings as footholds, and thin wire can be cut with common tools. Taller fences, heavier gauge wire, tighter mesh and the addition of top rails or barriers all improve resistance, but chain link is not usually the first choice when security is the primary goal. A fence meant to act as a barrier is better compared against options in the list of the most secure fences.
Coating wear. If the zinc or polymer coating is scratched or worn, rust can start, particularly near salt, wet ground or chemicals. Check cut ends and the base of posts.
Sagging and damage. Mesh can sag if it is not tensioned well, and a vehicle strike or a fallen limb can deform it. Repairs are possible but can look patchy.
Coating options
- Galvanized (zinc-coated). The standard silver-gray finish. It is economical and has decent corrosion resistance, but the look is industrial.
- Vinyl- or polymer-coated. A color layer, commonly black, green or brown, over the wire. It improves appearance and adds some extra protection, and it blends better with plants. Scratches in the layer can let moisture in, so inspect it.
- Aluminized or other coatings. Some products use different metallic coatings. Ask the supplier what the coating is and what it is meant to resist.
Privacy slats and screens
If you like the price but not the openness, there are add-ons:
- Slats are strips that weave through the mesh. They can provide partial to fairly good privacy, depending on type and how many you use. They add wind load, so posts and footings should be sturdy enough.
- Privacy fabric or screens attach to the fence and can be removed. They can wear out faster than the fence itself.
- Plantings such as climbing vines or a hedge placed along the fence can give a softer, living screen. Consider how roots and growth may affect the fence over time.
Slats and screens add cost and can reduce the main advantages of the fence, so price them in before you decide.
Gates
Chain link gates are usually built on a pipe frame. Make sure the hinges and latches are rated for the weight and that posts are properly set, because sagging gates are a frequent complaint. Information about gate hardware and gate latches can help.
Who it suits
Chain link tends to work well for homeowners who need a durable, fairly low-cost boundary, for yard enclosures with pets or children, and for utility or garden areas. It tends to fit poorly where privacy, appearance or security rank at the top.
Before you build
Check your local fence rules, permit needs and any HOA restrictions, since some areas limit chain link on the front of a property or specify materials. Confirm your property lines and have buried utilities marked before you dig. Compare chain link against other options using the same height and length so you can see the true difference, and ask about warranties on the mesh and the coating.