Chain Link Fence Boise? Best 66 Answer

Aside from enclosing your property, fences are an excellent way to improve the appearance of your home and increase its value. With quality materials and maintenance, a properly constructed fence can serve you for many years without the need for replacement or repair by a fence installer. The cost of installing a fence depends on various factors such as: B. length, height and material type. Longer and taller fences require more labor and materials to build compared to shorter and lower fences.

Although building a fence around your home can be expensive, you can combine hard work, research and creativity to discover the most durable and aesthetically pleasing fence within your financial means. The cheapest and most affordable fences result from cheap materials that require minimal maintenance and easy fence installation. The most common and cheapest types of fencing include naturally occurring, recycled, and manufactured materials that require the least amount of labor to install and maintain.

Aluminum fences

Aluminum is among the most attractive and simple types of fencing available on the market. While it doesn’t offer the security most homeowners demand, it’s relatively cheap in terms of maintenance costs. In addition, installing an aluminum fence requires maintenance during installation, during which you decorate and paint it.

wooden fences

Wood is extremely popular across America as the preferred material for fencing, especially when treated properly. Aside from providing privacy for homeowners, it improves the aesthetics of your home. Additionally, it offers homeowners a warm, welcoming feel at a low cost compared to other materials. When constructing the wooden fence, consider local laws regarding how high a fence should be and remember that the size and height will determine the amount of lumber, labor and consequently the price.

Wooden fences take time to complete a full fence installation but can last a lifetime. In addition, the quality of the fence depends immensely on the type of wood one chooses to build the structure.

PVC fences

The cheapest way to build a fence for your house is to buy one made of PVC. Such fences replace wooden slats and posts to provide your protection from the outside world. PVC sleeves improve the stability of wooden posts used as a fence, reducing material costs and labor. In addition, PVC poles can be attached to crossbars with adhesives and screws.

PVC fences are highly resistant to elements such as snow, rain and sunlight, ensuring they will serve your home for years.

Wrought Iron Fence

Wrought iron is a durable and strong fencing material that can withstand harsh weather conditions with minimal repairs. Wrought iron fences are a popular gothic and century-old look that creates aesthetic appeal while providing sturdy security for most homeowners. Compared to other types of fencing, refinishing and custom fabricating wrought iron makes it a bit expensive.

vinyl fences

Aside from being cost-friendly, vinyl fencing’s flexibility, strength, and color retention make it an attractive choice for most homeowners. Some experts argue that vinyl fences are approximately four times stronger and more flexible than wooden fences. Vinyl fences are easy to maintain as you can remove graffiti and other stains with soap and water. The long lifespan and low maintenance requirements make vinyl fencing cheaper than other types of fencing.

chain link fences

Chain link fencing is an inexpensive type of fencing that can serve your home for many years. The primary role of this type of fence is to create physical barriers to intruders entering and pets and children exiting in school playgrounds. The material is very durable, cheap and requires little maintenance. However, chain links are prone to rust and do not provide privacy to your home.

You can grow fast-growing vines, shrubs and flowers at the base of the chain link fence for a bit of privacy.

electric fence

Electric fences, installed by a fence installer, are commonly used to provide a low cost deterrent to human and animal intruders. The electric fence has a simple construction with a receiver, transmitters and several wires stretched between upright wooden posts. Electric fences offer the highest level of security at a lower price by sending a high-intensity pulse of voltage when a wire breaks. From now on, such fences are no longer allowed in urban centers and near highways or roads.

stone fences

Stone and brick walls have an aesthetic appeal and offer homeowners excellent privacy. In addition, these fences are strong and sturdy, providing security for your home. However, the cost of stone fences can be increased by the extensive labor required during construction.

picket

Picket fences are a popular and affordable type of fence in the United States that provide privacy and protection for your property. The vertically spaced slats attached to the bottom and top horizontal rails are available in a variety of decorative styles that will add curb appeal and home value.

palette

A fence builder can simply fasten pallets horizontally or vertically between vertical posts as a fence. As pallets can be offered freely by nurseries, construction sites and industries you should ensure that they carry an International Plant Protection Convection logo. The organization ensures that the pallet is fumigated and heat treated to limit the spread of plant diseases and critters.

Barbed Wire

Barbed wire fencing is an inexpensive and secure way to create physical barriers to keep livestock from leaving your yard and to prevent entry of wildlife such as foxes and jackals.

grid above

A trellis fence is a wooden fence that may have metal forming the cross pattern over the wooden fence to allow sunlight to enter. In addition, it offers a view of the outside while preventing intruders from entering. In addition, the trellis can support climbing shrubs such as grapevines and make your home more attractive. The smaller slats at the top of the fence reduce the amount of wood panel used compared to traditional fences, making trellis a cheaper fencing option.

natural fence

Hedgerows have been used as fences to protect homes from intruders and soil erosion since the 16th century. Planting shrubs requires researching the native plants and choosing the best plant whose mature size will provide adequate enclosure. It would be most beneficial to visit the local nursery for information on the best plants to grow as your natural fence. To keep the process cheap, harvest plants grow quickly, require little maintenance, and carry out planting during the rainy season.

Although yew trees take years to form a mature hedge that will protect your home, it offers an aesthetic appeal that is ideal for both sunny and cloudy climates. Alternatively, you can grow spotted laurel around the stone wall to provide aesthetic appeal and privacy from neighbors and intruders. The bushy green plant is hardy as it can survive salty winds and air pollution. You can choose from a variety of privet species to grow your fence, which can grow to around five to three feet tall.

You can opt for bamboo fencing that will make your home look more eco-friendly and increase its appeal. Bamboo cane and rolled bamboo use poles that connect together, creating a stronger fence than live bamboo. Homeowners living in areas with colder climates should avoid planting bamboo as a fence.

Which is cheaper, a vinyl or a wooden fence?

Find out more about All Over Fence and our products.

As is so often the case in fence construction, the answer depends on it. As a general rule, Fencing Direct recommends a minimum foundation depth of 24 inches for a 4 foot fence plus an additional 3 inches for each foot of height (e.g. 27 inches for a 5 foot post). The minimum hole diameter should be four times the largest cross section of the post.

These are the general recommendations that serve as a kind of baseline or minimum guideline. However, several factors affect the recommended (or required) depth of the foundation. Environmental factors such as soil and weather conditions can have a significant impact on a fence’s stability and require adjustments during installation. Local ordinances often regulate the minimum depth of the foundation and other elements of fence construction.

This article will walk you through the factors that determine proper foundation depth, then provide basic fence post installation instructions. Our Fencing Direct sales and service associates have decades of industry experience and can assist you in installing the highest quality products.

ground conditions

The Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute publishes a guide with a formula for determining foundation depth. One of the factors in this formula focuses on a soil’s stability based on its composition. There are three types of soil: sand, loam, and clay. While floors are often a combination of the three, each has its own characteristics that affect a fence’s stability.

Sand – The coarsest of all soils, and therefore the most porous, sand does not change significantly with changes in moisture conditions. Contrary to popular belief, sand can prove strong and stable once compacted. It provides a suitable medium for fence construction and requires few special considerations.

Clay – Clay, slightly less porous than sand but still fairly coarse, changes little under moisture conditions. However, due to its soft and flexible nature, it offers less stability. This should be taken into account when planning the depth of the foundation.

Clay – Unlike sand and loam, clay soil is dense and hard. It provides a stable base when dry, but is much more susceptible to expansion and contraction from water and moisture. This means that when clay soaks up water or dries out, it will shift in a way that can prove problematic for fences.

The US Department of Agriculture maintains a Web Soil Survey site that provides soil information for every location in the United States. Refer to this map and use your knowledge of soil conditions to adjust the depth of the fence foundation.

weather conditions

Wind – Another important factor in the Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute guide to foundation depth is wind force. It is perhaps the most important factor in determining foundation depth as it is the only force that can be reasonably predicted. The higher the wind force (common in areas with intense storms), the deeper the post.

Frost Line – Frost and dew can also exert a powerful force on a fence. One such force, called a heve, occurs when ice forms under a fence post and causes expansion that “lifts” the post. To prevent this phenomenon, the fence post must be set deeper than the frost line, or the maximum depth at which the ground freezes. The National Snow and Ice Data Center releases a map of average winter frost lines across the United States.

So consult local laws

Local governments often take these conditions into account and regulate the minimum foundation depth. Cities often post these regulations online (for example, here are Miami-Dade County’s fence regulations, which require a minimum foot depth of 38 inches). These regulations can often be found with a quick internet search, but one can also contact the appropriate government agency to speak to a knowledgeable person.

dig the hole

Regardless of the various factors affecting foundation depth, the foundation itself must be dug properly to ensure maximum strength. This means digging a bell-shaped hole, or a hole that is wider at the bottom than at the top. The opposite of a bell-shaped hole would be a carrot-shaped hole (thinner at the bottom, wider at the top). Bell shaped holes add stability by providing more support at the very bottom of the post, keeping it upright and aligned.

For Fencing Direct, we recommend that the end post feet be 10″ wide at the top and 12″ wide at the bottom. The line posts should be 8 inches wide at the top and 10 inches wide at the bottom.

Adjusting the End Post and Line Post

Once the foundation has been dug to the correct shape and specifications, the posts need to be set with concrete. For a proper mix, use 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, and 4 parts gravel. Make sure the solution is heavy and not too watery as this can cause cracks and weaknesses in the concrete. While the concrete is still wet, use a spirit level to ensure the post is perfectly vertical. Finally, at the base of the post where it meets the ground, make sure the concrete slopes away from the post to allow for proper drainage.

Fencing Direct supports you every step of the way

We work with one of the most established manufacturers in the country, delivering quality products to your door at a great price, while our staff of trained professionals can guide you through the entire process. While you are planning, our fence builder will allow you to draw your entire project and receive a price and list of all items required to complete your fence. Our customer service representatives provide quick answers to all your questions, ensuring you always have an experienced and knowledgeable contact just a phone call away.

With an investment like a fence, you want to be sure you’re getting a quality product at an affordable price. Fencing Direct offers both in addition to excellent service. Contact us today to start your project and see how much you will save.

How new fences will affect your home value

Do fences add value to your home?

As with any other home improvement project, adding a fence to your property almost always affects the property value. Whether it increases or decreases the value of your property depends on various factors. To determine whether the new fence will increase or decrease the value of your property, you should first consider the purpose of your fence.

The purpose of your fence

Homeowners add fences to their properties for a variety of reasons. The purpose of your fence greatly affects the design, which in turn can affect the value of your property. Would you like to fence your property for more privacy? Are you primarily looking for an extra measure of security for your home? Is it for the look of the fence? Do dogs have to be kept in the garden? The purpose of your fence determines its design. A privacy fence looks very different from a chain link fence, which is only meant to keep a small dog in the yard. Having a security fence in the front yard that reduces the attractiveness of your home can reduce the property’s value unless the buyer also wants that type of security. Much of the value of your home depends on a buyer’s preferences.

How do fences affect home value?

Fences affect the value of the home in a number of ways.

fence position

A strategically placed fence can add value to your home. For example, if you have a less-than-desirable view from the backyard, building a tall privacy fence can increase the value of the home when it comes time to sell it. However, if you have a poorly placed fence in your front yard that detracts from the appeal of your beautiful home, you could lower your property value.

fence material

A typical chain link fence will not do much for the market value of your home. Ask any real estate agent, buyers are much more likely to choose a home with a fence made of quality materials and with aesthetic appeal. Different fencing materials have advantages, and a professional at Shur-Way Building Center can help you find the best fencing material for your home and yard.

fence installation

An improperly installed fence will likely lower the value of your property. For this reason, it’s incredibly important that you hire a local contractor with fencing experience to install your new fence.

Buyer Intent

One of the most important factors that determines whether a fence will affect the value of your home is its appeal to potential buyers. If a buyer has small children or pets, they will likely want to purchase a property with adequate fencing at the property line. However, if a buyer wants to demolish the property and rebuild or expand it, an existing fence will just be more work for them in the long run. However, attractive wood, vinyl, and wrought iron fencing offer a higher resale value than chain link fencing.

How can the Shur-Way Building Center help with your fencing project?

If you are looking to add a wooden fence to your home or are starting a fence repair project, come to the Shur-Way Building Center in Vancouver for a fair price on your fencing material. Our experts can give you advice on what type of coated finish would best suit your property and tips on installing fences properly. We are following all state and CDC recommended guidelines for the spread of COVID-19. Call today to ask questions or get a free estimate on materials for your new custom fence!

If you’re thinking about securing your property with a fence so you can let your kids play safely or let your pet outside with ease, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Several options are used to construct fences and this guide will examine wood and chain links. In the following sections, we explain the differences between these options so that you can make an informed decision.

Style Wood fences offer the greatest versatility in terms of design and finishing options. These fences can be painted to match your home’s exterior and decorative features, and trellis work or metal fixings can be added for a customized look. Wooden fences can be constructed from various types of wood, the most common being pressure treated pine. Spruce and cedar are other possible options. These fences vary in height and include ranch/split rail, picket, and privacy screen styles. Chain link fences have fewer design options and are usually limited to black, green, brown, or silver colors. Generally chain link fences are used where privacy is less important and their purposeful design is ideal for enclosing pet areas, around HVAC units or in industrial settings. The fence material is galvanized aluminum and can be coated with Vinyl 1. Chain link fences are typically only 4 feet high but can be built up to 5 or 6 feet high.

installation

Both wood and chain link fences can be installed as a DIY project. However, a significant amount of work is required. Digging holes for fence posts 2 takes a great deal of time and effort and typically requires specialized equipment. Fence Post 2 should be cemented into the ground to prevent shifting or tilting over time. Due to the required permits, site inspection and rating 3, the use of a professional is recommended.

With wooden fences, each fence board must be individually nailed to 4 posts. Depending on the size of the fence, this can take several hours. Chain link fencing is sold in large rolls so after the posts are installed, the fencing material is unrolled and attached to each post. This makes for a faster installation.

Cost The cost of a wooden fence depends on the style, height and type of wood selected. For a 6 foot high, 209 yard privacy fence 5 with a gate, concrete posts and the removal of the old fence, the material cost ranges from $8 to $18 per linear foot. Labor costs range from $25 to $50 per worker based on hourly billing. The total cost of this project ranges from $6,500 to $10,000. However, many companies offer a package deal so homeowners are not surprised by additional costs. Chain link fences are a cheaper option that can make them attractive for covering large areas that need security, such as around a commercial or industrial area. For a 4 foot tall fence that is 209 meters long, material prices range from $7 to $12 per linear foot. Labor costs range from $8 to $15 per linear foot, so the total cost for this project averages from $3,000 to $5,200. Additional items such as gates, vinyl 1 slats or fabric screens increase the overall cost.

privacy

Wooden fences can provide considerable privacy depending on the design used and are ideal for securing a space used for play, relaxation or entertaining. A wooden fence can be built at different heights to provide additional privacy, e.g. B. around a pool area.

Chain link fences don’t offer much privacy because the mesh has large gaps that allow these fences to practically see through. Slats can be built into the material of the chain links, which provide some privacy. Chain link slats are usually sold by the box. They come in a variety of colors to help your fence blend in with the rest of your property. A box of slats costs about $45, and professional installation adds $2 to $3 per linear foot to installation costs. Since the material of the slats is visually unsightly and not very durable, this option is not widely used.

Light wood fences can completely block the light and may not be the best choice if you have plants or a garden nearby. Chain link fencing lets in a lot of light and can be ideal when you simply want to restrict access to your garden or want to protect a specific area like a vegetable garden.

maintenance

Wooden fences require considerable maintenance to keep them in good condition and looking good. Depending on the paint used and the climate you live in, your wooden fence may need to be sanded 6 and painted or stained annually. Damp or wet climates can cause the wood to rot, and termites can also be a problem. If the posts are not properly installed and cemented into the ground, they can tilt or fall, likely damaging the portions of the fence near the damaged post. Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs can be costly as parts of the fence may need to be rebuilt using new materials.

Chain link fencing requires little maintenance because the metal and other materials used are very durable in a variety of climates. The galvanized metal has been treated with a special process that makes it less prone to rusting. Metal is also stronger than wood and will not sag over time like a wooden fence.

Lifespan Typically, a wooden fence lasts about 15 years before it needs to be replaced. A chain link fence will last around 20 years and if you have chosen a vinyl covered mesh you can expect an even longer lifespan.

sustainability

Wooden fences may initially seem like a sustainable option, but this depends on where and how the wood was harvested. Cutting down old-growth forests for lumber can cause significant damage to the surrounding ecosystem. Also, many wood products are treated with toxic chemicals to prevent the growth of insects and mold. Chain link fences are made from easily accessible raw materials, but still require a significant amount of energy in the manufacturing process.

While homeowners may feel more neighborly, they also want more privacy and security. This has triggered an increased demand for residential fencing.

Increasing demand for fences from homeowners, combined with shortages of lumber and other materials, has resulted in higher prices and longer waits for installation, reports The Wall Street Journal.

Harwell Fencing in Los Angeles reports a 60% increase in fencing requests since the outbreak of COVID-19. Owner Arian Harwell told The Wall Street Journal that most homeowners require “wall toppers,” a wooden fence installed on top of a masonry wall to add height and fencing to their property.

According to the Home Innovation Research Labs 2019 report, wood is the most commonly used fencing material in homes. However, the price of pressure-treated lumber is about three times what it was in early 2020, so homeowners should expect higher prices for their fencing. Also, wood is the least durable fencing material that needs to be maintained and repaired by homeowners.

PVC and other plastic fencing materials are also becoming increasingly popular. Metal fencing (such as wrought iron, decorative steel, and aluminum) is too, but still accounts for only about 2% of the market share. According to the report, wire mesh fences are on the decline.

Homeowners considering a fence should ensure that permitting protocols are followed prior to installation. For example, many homeowners must first obtain approval from their community’s homeowners association. You will also likely be asked to have a survey done beforehand to avoid future boundary disputes with neighbors. Owners may also need to get a permit from their municipality before getting a fence.

You may need to obtain a permit to install a fence, but don’t let that put you off. A good fence can be one of the wisest investments you make in your landscaping. Fences can serve a number of functions, both practical and decorative.

When you will most likely need a permit to build a fence

Where you live, where you will erect the fence on your property, and how tall you want your fence to be are three factors that have a large impact on how likely or unlikely you are to get a fence installation permit :

If you live in a densely populated county, chances are you’ll need a permit.

On the other hand, if you’re a farmer wanting to erect a barbed wire fence in a rural area, chances are you won’t need a permit.

Where you install the fence within your own property also makes a difference. A privacy fence in your backyard often doesn’t require a permit unless it’s supposed to be over 6 feet tall, depending on where you live, while the limit for the same type of fence in your front yard might be as low as 3.5 feet.

Regardless of how likely you are to need a permit, you should always inquire as to whether or not you actually need a permit. Better safe than sorry. If you don’t want to run into problems once the work is underway, it’s crucial that you are comfortable with the forces that are at hand. You can then focus on getting the actual building properly finished without fear of a building inspector showing up and throwing cold water on your project.

Obtaining permits, other preparatory work and beginning installation

As with so many other DIY projects, part of the key to success is getting the prep work done right. Here are some points to check before installing the fence:

To find out if you need planning permission before installing the fence, check with your city’s building control department or check with your local city hall. Often this and more information can be found on your city’s website.

A fee may be charged at the time your application is submitted or your plan is approved.

Additionally, some cities may ask you to sketch a plan of your proposed fence, accompanied by photographs and written approval from your neighbors.

Approval is one thing, getting a neighbor to pay for a privacy fence that runs along the property line you share is quite another. While some may feel that neighbors should shoulder the burden since they too will benefit from the extra privacy, it’s not a good idea to demand such a payment out of the blue. This could create ill will. Of course, it is completely different if you have spoken to the neighbor right away and have already agreed that a joint investment in a fence to achieve privacy makes sense for both of you.

Have a surveyor determine exactly where your property line is unless you are already certain of the location in question. Some municipalities only require that you have located the corner markers. Alternatively, just make sure the fence is well within the boundaries of your own property and not near your property line.

You need to determine the location of underground gas, water and power lines before digging.

Warning Whenever you plan to dig holes on your property, be sure to call the national call-before-you-dig number (811), even if you are already certain of where your utility lines are located. In most locations, it is illegal to dig more than a few inches deep without having your utility lines located and marked by a licensed utility locator.

When determining whether or not you need a fence permit, you will likely receive additional information that will be of great value to you.

Even if your application is accepted, you’re still not out of the woods. Some municipalities will give you a list of inspections that must take place during installation. Successfully passing these inspections will prepare you for a final inspection that will give your structure the government’s seal of approval.

For example, building codes and local building code ordinances may dictate that a fence 6 feet or more high must be at least 15 feet from the street. Such restrictions may bother you, but they often make sense. For example, a privacy fence on a corner lot should not be so high as to obscure the view of drivers at the intersection of the two streets that your lot borders, which could pose a safety hazard.

Now that you’ve decided to use chain links for your brand new residential or commercial fence, you need to choose the exact chain link fence you want to install – I know you thought the hard part was over! There are different types of materials, grades and types of chain link fencing that you can choose from. Here are some tips for choosing the best chain link fence for you.

wire material 101

There are three types of wire materials that you can typically choose for your chain link fence: galvanized or galvanized, aluminum, and stainless steel.

Galvanized: Galvanized wires are dipped in zinc and then electroplated. Some are galvanized after weaving and others are galvanized beforehand. Most people prefer the former finish, but both types typically last around 12 years with minimal maintenance.

Aluminum: Aluminum wire is inherently resistant to rust or corrosion, adverse weather conditions and wear. Aluminum wire chain link fencing is typically chosen for commercial or public use. These can last up to 25 years with minimal maintenance.

Stainless Steel – Stainless steel wires are the strongest and most durable (but also the most expensive). They don’t fall prey to the problems that other guys can have. Stainless steel chain link fencing is typically found on high-end fencing or barriers at airports, railroads, or the sides of highways.

Additional protection 101

Aside from the durability of the wire material itself, many homeowners and business owners choose to add some protection by adding paint or plastic coating to their chain link fence.

Paint: Paint can add a little more aesthetic appeal to your chain link fence, but can be prone to cracking and chipping over time. The pain usually lasts 3-5 years on a chain link fence before needing reapplication.

Plastic Coating: Plastic coating uses PVC to provide long-lasting protection for your chain link fence without being prone to cracking or peeling. PVC also protects your chain link fence from rusting, scratching or other imperfections.

Wire size and mesh size 101

Finally, you need to select the correct gauge wire and mesh size for your chain link fence. These depend mostly on how much security you need for your property and how much tension you think your fence will be able to withstand. If you need higher security, opt for small mesh sizes and wire gauges. If you want your chain link fence to withstand a lot of tension, also opt for a smaller mesh size and smaller wire gauges.

Let us help you choose the right chain link fence for your home

Ready to have your perfect chain link fence installed around your residential or commercial property? Hercules Fence has extensive experience repairing and constructing fences in any material. Our experienced team can help you meet your fencing needs, whether it’s residential or commercial fencing, at the right price. Call us at 757-316-3600 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Flickr and Pinterest.

Photo of chain link fence with decorative design by Editor B/Flickr.

Objectively speaking, chain link fences are part good, part bad, and, it has to be said, part ugly. Still, many homeowners might be cautious about describing them in that order, with the good qualities outweighing the less than desirable qualities. Regardless of your not-so-objective feelings about this ubiquitous frontier material, one thing is certain: chain link is a workhorse that will last for decades with little or no maintenance. And you can hardly say that about any other standard fence.

The good

Quality chain link fencing is strong, resilient and extremely durable. No amount of snow, rain, UV rays, high winds, or flying baseballs will stop your fence from standing up and doing its duty. In contrast, cedar fencing (the choice of the people) is far more susceptible to all of these destructive forces.

The other main advantage of chain links is that they are relatively transparent – which is also one of their main disadvantages, depending on your perspective. If you’re in the former camp, you might not like how monolithic wooden panel fences fragment the landscape and make a backyard feel a bit like an office cubicle. Chain links are especially good for dividing small yards that are adjacent to each other (especially if the homeowners are friends). The open mesh of chain links also means the fence won’t block sunlight into gardens and other areas that crave sun rays. In terms of cost, chain link is cheaper than wooden privacy fencing, lasts longer and requires no refinishing, so the lower cost gets even better over time.

The bad

In terms of practicality, Chainlink has two main drawbacks: it’s relatively easy to mount and, as mentioned above, it’s see-through. The climbing problem can be a problem for people with unusually talented or overzealous dogs. Wooden fence manufacturers may argue that chain links are less secure than their own products, but the reality is that any sane scoundrel or kid running from the fluff can easily scale a 6-foot wooden fence from either side. The issue of privacy is another matter. Chain links don’t create a privacy (or wind) barrier unless you fill the fence mesh with these aluminum or plastic slats. Decide for yourself if that’s aesthetically pleasing.

the ugly

Few can argue that chain link fences offer a lot of decoration. At best, it’s not very noticeable. At worst, it can have all the charm of a prison yard. The standard chain link is available in one colour: zinc. And painting is a lot like painting concrete and brick: It turns an inherently low-maintenance material into a three- to five-year pain in the butt. However, if galvanized metal really isn’t your color, you can opt for PVC or polyester coated fences, which come in standard colors like green, brown and black. Just be aware that this bling can double or triple the cost of the fence.

The options

Standard chain links may all look the same to the layperson, but there are important quality differences. When purchasing a fence, consider its four main components:

Grating (or “fabric”) Framework (posts and rails) Hardware (connectors and brackets that hold everything together) Coating (for rust protection and paint if needed)

Heavier gauge mesh and scaffolding is stronger and more expensive than lighter gauge, smaller diameter materials. Fittings should be well finished and uniformly shaped. Coatings include standard galvanizing—a layer of zinc added before or after parts are formed—and PVC or polyester. The plastic coatings are applied to the galvanized metal and provide additional rust protection in addition to the paint. As a general rule for primary fencing materials, follow ASTM standards for your application, as well as any specific recommendations dictated by your city building authority or local climate.

The installation

DIY installation is a reasonable option for savvy homeowners. Chain link is fairly easy and requires basic tools, except for a fence stretcher which is essentially a fancy come along (hand winch). As with all fencing, careful planning and accurate layout and post placement are key. With chain links, stretching, fastening, and cutting or splicing the mesh to get it just right can be difficult, and gates require special attention to detail. In the end, most people choose to hire a fencing professional. Regardless of who is doing the work, remember the following: Check with your local building authority before seriously planning to add a new fence or remove an old one; Believe it or not, residents of Alexandria, VA are in trouble with local authorities for removing their dilapidated 1950’s chain link fence, which the city considers to be of historical value.

Updated April 10, 2018.

You can install a chain link fence without concrete, but it’s not recommended.

Anchoring each fence post in concrete is the best way to ensure your fence will stand straight and tall for many years to come. It can be tempting to skip the time and expense of setting the pins in cement, but the savings aren’t usually worth it in the long run for a number of reasons.

soil composition

The type of ground you are setting fence posts in will help determine how stable the ground is and how much you can expect the posts to move over time. Much of the North Shore area has clay soil. Clay soil expands and contracts significantly between dry and rainy periods, allowing the stakes to shift and settle differently. Concrete anchors are a must in clay soils.

If you have particularly sandy soil, you can also succeed without concrete. You should use a polymer backing to improve stability and drainage around the post.

Installing a chain link fence with concrete

Whether you use concrete or not, installing a chain link fence itself requires several tools and materials, including fence posts, gates, chain link netting, fasteners, tension rods and wires, post hole digger, drill, hacksaw or pipe cutter, shovel, spirit level, masonry cord, plumb bob, Rubber mallet, socket wrench, pull rod, fence puller, pliers, premixed concrete, gravel and a trowel.

This method usually takes two full days, including the time the cement has to dry overnight.

Install chain link fence without concrete

If you decide to install your chain link fence without concrete, use a post hole digger to drill a hole deep enough to bury the posts at least two feet, or about 1/3 the height. Never drive the posts into the ground, especially if you have hard clay or rocky ground, or you will bend the tops. The hole should be slightly larger than the posts so you can fill it with soil packed tightly around the posts.

Installing your fence without concrete will save you a small amount of money on concrete, trowel, and gravel. You can potentially complete the installation in a day if you use the auger to dig your post holes. If you choose to save the drill bit rental fee (usually around $50 or so) it will take longer as you will have to dig the post holes by hand.

Anchoring fence posts with cement is the most secure

If you just need a temporary fence, concrete anchors aren’t really feasible. In all other cases, anchoring each post is the best way to prevent years of slipping and tilting. Some people suggest just using cement on the end, gate and corner posts, but this method can still allow for a lot of movement so you’ll be resetting the unanchored posts in a few years anyway.

Many homeowners choose to install their own chain link fence, but if you decide the job is too big or you just don’t want the hassle, the professionals at Patriot Fence Crafters can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

About Patriot Fence Crafters

When customers come to Patriot Fence Crafters with their residential or commercial fencing, they can always be assured that they are receiving the highest quality product and service, backed by an established reputation for customer satisfaction. We strive to provide every customer with a pleasant and successful experience at an affordable price. Call us today to learn more about our services and arrange a free estimate!

We proudly offer our complete fencing services throughout the greater Boston area including Georgetown, Beverly, Andover, Danvers, Ipswich, Lynn, Lynnfield, Marblehead, Manchester and nearby Massachusetts.

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Check out 15 examples of chain link fencing ideas for your home (backyard and front yard) and learn about the cost, pros and cons of chain link fencing.

Welcome to our guide to choosing the best chain link fence for your home!

Chain link fencing is a type of braided fencing mainly made of galvanized or LLDPE coated steel wire. Uncoated steel wire is prone to corrosion. This not only damages the chain link fence, but is also an eyesore. You can view our custom diagram illustrating the different parts of a chain link fence here.

Chain link fencing is a popular low-cost fencing option for residential homes, although its primary use is in backyards. The open mesh of the chain link fence does not obscure the sunlight on either side of the fence or the view beyond the fence.

If you want more privacy, opaque slats can be inserted into the characteristic diamond pattern of this type of fence. However, this is not a popular option as the slats are more easily damaged than the chain link and will most likely need to be replaced at some point.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a chain link fence for your home, including height and gauge of wire. Below we have outlined the pros and cons of a chain link fence.

Related: Types of Wire Fences | Fence Designs | Ideas for gabion walls and fences | Types of Fence Building Tools | Chain Link Fence Cost Calculator | Wire Fence Measurements | parts of a fence | How to install chain link fence

Advantages:

Low Cost – Chain link fencing is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to wooden privacy fencing. This applies to both the cost of the chain link material and the installation of the chain link fence. Security – Chain link fencing is available in a variety of heights. It can be purchased at higher or lower elevations depending on your individual needs or the needs of your property. Durability – Galvanized steel chain link fence construction means it will resist rust and damage much longer than a wooden fence. EASY TO REPAIR – Should any part of the chain link fencing become damaged, it can be easily replaced. The replacement looks the same as the rest of the fence. Visibility – Chain link fences are great for properties with pets and/or children. They are secure and mostly easy to see through to see the children and/or animals outside, regardless of fence height.

Disadvantages:

Security – This is also a significant disadvantage as you cannot add barbed wire to the top of a chain link fence in a residential area to make it more secure. Also, incredibly tall fencing options are an eyesore and may even be prohibited by local regulations such as city ordinances or HOAs. The typical residential fence can easily be climbed over due to its low height. Appearance – Due to its association with industrial complexes, chain link fences are considered generic and pedestrian. So, chain link fencing is great for fencing in a backyard, but is not a good option for attractiveness in a front yard. Lack of Privacy – If you crave privacy, a chain link fence is definitely not the best option for you. Even adding privacy slats in the chain link doesn’t stop neighbors from peeking over a four or five foot fence.

Cost of chain link fencing

So we’ve found that chain link fencing is definitely a cost-effective option. Still, how much could you spend on one? Expect to average between $60 and $70 for a 50 foot roll of chain link fencing fabric. (Sources: Home Depot, Lowes)

Depending on the gauge and height of your fence, you can expect to pay upwards of $100 for the chain link fence fabric itself. In addition to purchasing the “fabric” for your fence, you must also purchase fence posts, which cost an average of $10 to $16 per fence post. End posts can cost up to $20 per post. (Sources: Home Depot, Lowes)

There are a thousand and one ways to customize a chain link fence and add accessories. If you want a colorful fence, you can buy chain link fences in colors like green, black, or the classic silver.

You can choose to add railings to the top of your fence or post caps or even an access gate. These create additional costs that you need to weigh before deciding if a chain link fence is the right choice for your outdoor space. Keep in mind that gates, gate posts, struts and bars may be required to complete your fence.

If you’re unsure if a chain link fence is the right fencing option for you, you can check out our definitive guide to fencing here!

Before you start any fence project, you should make sure you are building the fence on the right lot. Check property lines before you begin, as repairing a fence that encroaches on your neighbor’s property can be expensive, time-consuming, and can create tension between close neighbors.

Check all your local and HOA guidelines for fencing. You may need a fence installation permit, or your fence choices may be limited by the HOA. With proper planning and research, you won’t end up with half a fence to tear down and move or replace because of property line issues or appearance HOA guidelines.

We hope you enjoy this guide and our other articles on fences!

This is an interesting twist on a chain link fence. The entire property is surrounded by a tall wooden privacy fence, but divided down the middle by a much shorter chain link fence to mark separate outdoor living areas.

Source: Zillow Digs™

In a backyard, a chain link fence can be used to separate the landscape from a neighbor’s yard, keep pets inside (or outside!), and generally mark the boundaries of the yard. To embellish a simple chain link fence, add colorful plant beds and sculptures around or on top of it. You might even see some fuzzy friends nearby, like the squirrels in the photo above!

Here we see an excellent example of a garden that uses the inexpensive chain link fencing for the parts of the garden that are not visible from the street. The front of the house’s fence is brick with a trellis border, while the rest is slatted. The slats in the chain link fabric give homeowners more privacy and are a perfect way to take advantage of the economical option of chain link while keeping the curb appeal high!

Source: Zillow Digs™

It’s more common to see chain link fences at the front of the house in older neighborhoods than in newer neighborhoods. The chain link fence does not obstruct the front of the home, making it a great option for showing off the beauty of that aged brick.

In well-established backyard gardens, a chain link fence can be used like a trellis and effectively create privacy with large flowering plants like this beautiful lavender wisteria. This ability comes from the shape and openings in the chain link weave.

Even if you don’t have plants that grow through chain link fences like a trellis, you can still plant tall, leggy flowers like this wild yellow daisy variety. The colorful blooms and sheer size of the plant can help camouflage a simple chain link fence.

This contemporary home features a large wooden slat horizontal privacy fence around the main living area in the backyard, but uses a tall chain link fence to secure the boundaries of the rest of the property.

Here is a good example of a chain link fence covered with a hedge. If you decide to have a chain link fence for your home, planting a hedge is an ingenious way to add beauty to the overall look while still enjoying the inexpensive protection that these fences offer.

Related galleries and rooms you may like:

26 Cheerful White Picket Fence Ideas and Designs | How to Design and Build a Wooden Gate (Illustrated Guide) | 40 Beautiful Garden Fence Ideas | 51 Fence Designs and Ideas (Backyard & Front Yard)