Chain Link Fence New Jersey is a versatile enclosure option that provides security, defines boundaries, and keeps children and pets safe. It is also affordable and fairly easy to install.
When estimating your cost for a chain link fence, consider the size of your project and any additional features you may want included.
Chain link fences provide a strong and secure barrier against unwanted intruders. These fences can protect homes and businesses from burglary, vandalism, or wild animal invasions. They can also effectively prevent property damage from bad weather, such as snow or hailstorms. In addition to the physical barriers they provide, these fences can be further enhanced by security features like barbed wire and razor ribbon. Depending on how high a fence is, these security measures can make it more difficult for intruders to climb over the fence. They also help prevent intruders from accessing a site by cutting the fence or driving through it.
Another important feature of a security chain link fence is that it allows for unobstructed views both inside and outside the fenced area, which can facilitate effective surveillance. For this reason, these fences are often used in areas that require heightened security measures, such as schools or sports fields.
While there is a stigma that chain-link fences look industrial and should only be used around commercial/business buildings, there are ways to add more aesthetic appeal. These fences can be galvanized with a classic silver color or powder coated in a variety of hues to match any style or landscaping. Furthermore, slats and privacy strips can be added to the chain-link fabric for a more customized appearance.
Lastly, many homeowners find that chain-link fencing provides an appealing visual to their home. This is especially true if the fencing is powder coated in a bright color that contrasts with the surrounding landscape. This is a great option for residential properties that want to improve their curb appeal without spending a lot of money.
During installation, the top rail of a chain-link fence should be installed after the terminal posts are set and leveled. Typically, this top rail comes in 21-foot lengths and rests on the top of the terminal posts using a connector called a loop cap. After the top rail is attached, it should be connected to the first row of chain-link diamonds using equally spaced tension bands. In addition, a gate must be attached to the chain-link fence. Whether this is a hinged pedestrian gate or a long, supported car gate depends on the application.
Durability
Chain link fences are made from galvanized steel, which helps them to stand up to a lot of wear and tear. The fence can also be coated in vinyl, which adds to its durability. Combined with regular maintenance, the average chain-link fence can last up to three decades.
The main component of a chain-link fence is its framework or pipe tubing. This tubing acts as posts and supports the steel mesh fabric. The mesh fabric comes in different gauges, which determine the strength of the fence. It can also be used in different widths to create barriers for homes, businesses, schools, and more. The smaller the size of the wire, the tighter the woven pattern and the stronger the fence.
To install a chain-link fence, the installer begins by setting the terminal posts. Once these are set, he or she then starts to lay out the mesh fabric on the ground, taking care to keep the wires as straight and uniform as possible. Once the fabric is in place, he or she will stretch out a bottom tension wire between each terminal post to help minimize the in and out movement that can occur at the bottom of the fence between posts.
Once the bottom wire is stretched, he or she will then fasten the rail end bands to the line posts. These bands can be secured using carriage bolts that have their heads on the outside of the fence. From the top of the line posts, he or she will then roll out the top rail and secure it to the tension wire with a few fence ties.
A chain-link fence can be very durable, but it is not cut-proof. Intruders can use the right tools to cut through a chain-link fence, so it is important to be vigilant and keep an eye out for suspicious activity. Some homeowners choose to install additional security features like sensors and alarms to further protect their property.
For a more long-lasting, more cost-effective fence option, consider an aluminum fencing solution. It is more affordable than a chain-link fence, and it has many more customization options to fit your property needs. If you’d like to learn more about aluminum fencing, contact the experts at Maintenance-Free Outdoor Solutions in St. Louis, Missouri, today.
Maintenance
Although chain link fencing is not easy to damage, it can still be impacted by the weather and by criminals who try to cut through the fence. This means you need to maintain your chain link fences regularly. The good news is that it is a very easy and affordable task. The best way to keep your fence in top shape is to plan monthly checkups. During these inspections, look for areas that need attention and get them fixed immediately. Doing so will save you money in the long run and ensure that your fence lasts for as long as possible.
Some of the simplest chain link fence fixes are to straighten bent rails and repair the mesh wire. To straighten a bent rail, simply place a pipe wrench on each side of the rail and turn it in the desired direction. Wood blocks can also be used to stabilize the rail if needed. Once the rail is straight, pliers can be used to fix ties, recreating the original placement and spacing of the ties. Repeat this process along the base rails and any other affected sections of the fence.
Rust is another common issue that needs to be dealt with promptly, as left untreated rust can eat through your fence. A hose on a high setting can often remove mild dirt buildups, while a scrub brush and soapy water will work for more difficult stains such as bird poop and clumps of leaves. For rust that has already formed, you can use steel wool dipped in straight vinegar or an environmentally safe mold and mildew chemical to rub it away.
Other maintenance tasks you should do on a regular basis are to examine the upright and supporting posts for rust or other signs of wear. Then, if needed, you can re-paint the posts to prolong their life. In addition, you should regularly inspect the connection points where lengths of fence are connected to the posts to make sure they are tight and secure. If you notice that they are becoming loose or pulling away from the post, call a local fencing expert right away.
Aesthetics
Whether you’re a commercial property owner looking to control access or a homeowner wanting to protect children and pets, chain link fences are an economical way to mark the perimeter of your yard. Although most people think of these fences as utilitarian and industrial, they can be customized to meet your aesthetic preferences with a few DIY creative upgrades.
A fresh coat of paint or stain can transform your chain link fence from utilitarian to eye-catching. Opt for paint in a color that complements your home or business’s exterior and overall design aesthetic. Alternatively, opt for a natural shade that blends in with your landscaping.
Another creative way to enhance the look of a chain link fence is by encouraging fast-growing vine plants like ivy and roses to grow along it. These will effectively cover up the metal mesh and create a lush green backdrop, blending seamlessly into your landscape.
Privacy screens or fabric can also be woven through your chain link fence to provide much-needed privacy along the boundary lines. Choose from a variety of materials like bamboo or reed for a more organic look or opt for colorful and patterned fabrics to add a pop of personality.
You can also make your chain link fence more visually appealing by adding decorative elements, such as lattice inserts or ornamental posts. These can easily be inserted into your chain-link fence and instantly transform it. These can be made of various materials including wood and can feature different designs, such as scrolls or fleur-de-lis.
Decorative caps are another easy upgrade for your chain-link fence, upgrading the appearance of your poles and providing a more finished look to your fence. They can be purchased in a wide variety of materials and styles, from simple copper to decorative metal designs.
In addition to these aesthetics-boosting features, you can also make your chain link fence more attractive by using wooden accents such as a wooden top rail or partway down the posts. If you want to go the extra mile, consider a wooden frame around the perimeter of your fence to create a picture-perfect view.
