So you like the look of a chain-link fence, but want something a bit nicer than basic chain link for your yard. Researching different options will make you want to climb a wall (or a fence). But theres one option you should consider: vinyl-coated chain link. There are a lot of pros and cons to vinyl-coated chain-link fences.
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A vinyl-coated chain-link fence is simply a chain-link fence that is coated in vinyl. First, lets discover what a chain-link fence is exactly.
A chain-link fence is a woven type of fence made from galvanized aluminum or steel mesh wire. Rust and corrosion protection is added during the galvanization process. The wire is bent into zig-zag patterns that it hooks with the wire next to it. This hooking pattern runs vertically, forming a diamond shape. This finished product is referred to as chain-link fence fabric.
The top edge and the bends of the wire mesh fabric are called the selvage. The selvage is in a knuckle (folded) or twisted pattern. The finished fabric is then attached to the framework, which includes the posts and rails. Fence posts are the vertical poles, and the rails are the horizontal poles.
Vinyl-coated chain-link fences are extremely popular, especially to define property lines. Youll find them everywhere, including sports fields and dog runs. They come in several colors, including brown, white, green, and black chain-link.
The vinyl coating is applied to a galvanized chain-link in one of three ways.
Of all the fence types, vinyl-coated chain-link fences are the go-to choice for a new fence for many people. Theyre inexpensive, easy to install, low maintenance, durable, and customizable.
Next to wire fencing, chain-link is the cheapest fencing available. Including professional installation costs, chain-link fencing costs about $10 $17 per linear foot.
Vinyl-coated chain-link fencing is a little more expensive. Vinyl-coated chain link fencing costs about $13 $20 per linear foot.
Compare this price to other materials (price includes professional installation).
Keep in mind, like all fencing, other factors will affect the final price tag.
If you decide to DIY your fence installation, itll cost you about $2,330. This is for a standard-sized yard and includes equipment and all the fencing materials.
If youre looking for a more affordable option, consider the pros and cons of chain-link fencing.
A vinyl-coated chain-link fence installation is relatively quick and easy. The longest part of the installation process is the framework the fence posts and rails.
The chain-link is pre-fabricated, manufactured in advance, and comes in large rolls. Once the framework is built, the chain-link fence is unrolled and attached to the posts and rails. No individual slats or panels to slow down the installation process.
Although no fence is maintenance-free, vinyl-coated chain-link fences are very low-maintenance. There are only a few things you need to do:
Vinyl-coated chain-link fences are very durable for two reasons.
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Vinyl-coated chain-link fences have a surprising amount of customizable options.
Looking for more? Theres a mile-long list of custom chain-link fence ideas.
While there are tons of benefits, a vinyl-coated chain-link fence does have some drawbacks. Depending on your priorities, the low privacy, security, and curb appeal can be a deal-breaker.
Due to the holes in the design, a vinyl-coated chain-link fence is not a privacy fence. People can easily see through your fence and into your yard. However, there are a few things you can do to increase chain-link privacy.
If youre looking for more ideas, these landscaping ideas will help increase your privacy.
A vinyl-coated chain-link fence isnt the best security fence. Theyre made at varying heights, but invaders can gain access by climbing or cutting the chain-link fabric. The lack of privacy also weakens your residential security.
Even if you add customized features, vinyl-coated chain-link fences can have a negative connotation. Theyre sometimes seen as cheap and industrialized. Therefore, chain-link fencing wont add much to the resale value of your home. An inexpensive fence like chain-link may imply that your home has subpar features.
If adding to your value to your home is a high priority, check out the best fences to add property value.
Vinyl-coated chain-link fences last at least 15-20 years. With proper maintenance, many last for well over 20 years. For the best results, be sure to clean regularly and address fence repairs as soon as they become noticeable.
Can you paint a vinyl-coated chain-link fence?Yes! You can paint your vinyl-coated chain-link fence. However, there are a few things you should do for the best results.
Clean your fence: Clean your fence so its free of dirt and grime using a pressure washer or soapy water and a brush. Then, allow enough time for your fence to fully dry.
Use a roller and brush: Use a paint roller rather than a sprayer. Because of the big gaps, using a sprayer on a chain link fence is messy and wasteful. Use a brush to get in tough-to-reach places.
Use vinyl-safe paint: For long-lasting results, use a vinyl-safe paint. Forgoing the vinyl-safe label may cause premature peeling and flaking.
For the most part, yes, a vinyl-coated chain-link fence is safe for dogs. Its durable, difficult to break though, and wont scratch your fur baby. However, there are a few things to watch out for.
Climbing: If your fence is short or your dog is large, your dog may be able to climb the fence using the fence holes as a ladder.
Fence bottom: If your fence doesnt have a bottom rail, that could be a weak point. If your pooch tends to be an escape artist, they may dig and wiggle under your fence. You can reinforce the bottom of your fence with a tension wire.
Fence holes: Although it doesnt happen often, your dogs collar can get stuck on the fence fabric. Even less likely, their paws can get stuck in the holes. Although both of these scenarios are rare, accidents happen.
Whether youre beginning the research process or elbow-deep in information, choosing a fence is no easy task. But you dont have to take on the load, mental or physical, alone. There are experienced, highly-rated fencing contractors that are happy to help. For more information, contact a local fencing professional today.
Main Image Credit: Pexels
Nicki DeStasi is a writer, author, and teacher who grew up in western Massachusetts and currently resides in the Austin area. She enjoys flower and vegetable gardening, reading, cooking, listening to true-crime podcasts, and spending time with her husband, three children, dog, and cat.
Our residential colored chain link fence systems use only galvanized chain link fabric, fittings and framework underneath a powder coated finish on the framework and smooth vinyl coating on the fabric. Using only sturdy polymer clear coated tubing and pregalvanized smooth tough chain link fabric, our systems will not only provide years of lasting qualtiy but will provide a safe place for your children and pets. Our colors will provide a high profile pleasing appearnce to your chain link fence. Our systems are designed to industry standards. Do you want to add screening, have a unique design or anticipate unusual site conditions, please contact us so that we may assist in custom designing your system.
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