Blog Content
15
May
2025
Chain link fence materials are the foundation of one of America's most popular and versatile fencing solutions. If you're looking to purchase chain link fence materials, here's what you need to know:
Chain link fencing remains popular because it delivers security without breaking the bank. The system combines woven metal fabric with sturdy posts and hardware to create a barrier that's both see-through and hard to breach.
When shopping for chain link materials, you'll need to consider:
Many homeowners choose chain link because it offers the perfect balance of durability and value. As one customer put it, "This keeps dogs, kids, and tennis balls contained — and keeps mom from losing it!"
Whether you're securing a backyard, defining property lines, or enclosing a commercial space, starting with quality materials ensures your fence will stand the test of time. Contact Brentwood Fence for a N.H. fence installation quote if you're ready to explore the right chain link option for your property.
Looking at the big picture helps when choosing chain link fence materials for your property. Let's compare what's available so you can make the best choice for your needs and budget:
Each material tells its own story. Galvanized steel is the trusted workhorse – it won't break the bank while still providing solid protection for years to come. Think of it as the reliable sedan of fencing – not flashy, but gets the job done without complaint.
Vinyl-coated chain link is where practicality meets curb appeal. The color options let you blend your fence with your landscape or home exterior, and that protective jacket means less maintenance down the road. Many of our customers with children and pets prefer vinyl-coated materials for their smooth finish and longer lifespan.
For those living near the ocean or in industrial areas, aluminized chain link is worth the investment. Its superior corrosion resistance stands up to salt spray and harsh environments that would quickly deteriorate standard options. It's like having a marine-grade fence that laughs in the face of rust.
The right choice depends on your specific situation – your local climate, your budget, and how you'll use the fence all play important roles in your decision. We're always happy to help you weigh these options for your specific property needs.
When you're ready to secure your property with chain link fencing, understanding the basics makes all the difference. Chain link fence materials come in various specifications that affect not just how your fence looks, but how well it performs and how long it lasts.
Chain-link fencing (sometimes called cyclone or diamond-mesh fencing) has been around since 1844 when clever folks in Norwich, England adapted cloth weaving machines to create interlocking metal diamonds. Today's versions still maintain that classic zigzag pattern, but manufacturing advances have made them stronger and more versatile than ever. Contact Brentwood Fence for a N.H. fence installation quote to learn which options best suit your location and budget.
The gauge of your chain link fence materials is one of those backwards things in life – the lower the number, the thicker and stronger the wire. Think of it like golf: a lower score is better!
Most homeowners choose between these common options:
9-gauge wire (0.148" thick) is the heavyweight champion – ideal when security is a top priority. This commercial-grade material stands up to serious abuse and provides maximum strength.
11-gauge wire (0.121" thick) hits the sweet spot for most residential projects – strong enough for family use without breaking the budget. This is our most popular residential option.
11½-gauge wire (0.113" thick) works well for basic enclosures where budget matters more than strength. It's perfectly adequate for marking boundaries or light-duty applications.
For homes around Portsmouth or Manchester where security concerns are higher, we typically recommend stepping up to 9-gauge. For standard backyard enclosures in quieter neighborhoods like Exeter or Concord, 11-gauge provides that perfect balance of strength and value.
The "mesh" simply refers to those diamond-shaped openings in your fence. While 2-inch mesh is standard for most applications, specialized needs might call for something different.
A tennis court fence typically uses 1¾-inch mesh to prevent those frustrating moments when balls get stuck in the fence. Pool enclosures often require 1¼-inch mesh to meet safety codes (and keep little ones safer). And if you're trying to contain small pets or need extra security, 1-inch "mini-mesh" is your best friend.
As for height, most residential fences fall into these ranges:
4-foot fencing works beautifully for front yards and decorative boundaries – tall enough to say "this is my property" without feeling unwelcoming.
5-foot fencing is perfect if you have larger dogs that might consider a 4-foot fence merely a suggestion rather than a boundary.
6-foot fencing provides that extra bit of privacy and security for backyards, keeping neighborly relationships friendly by maintaining good boundaries.
Commercial properties and higher-security areas often go taller – anywhere from 8 to 12 feet – creating a more serious deterrent.
Here in New England, your fence faces some unique challenges, and choosing the right chain link fence materials can make all the difference in longevity.
If you're near the coast in Portsmouth or along Maine's shoreline, that salty sea air is beautiful – but it's murder on standard galvanized fencing. For these areas, we strongly recommend either vinyl-coated or aluminized chain link, paired with stainless steel hardware. Your fence will thank you by not rusting prematurely.
Our famous New Hampshire and Massachusetts freeze-thaw cycles demand proper installation techniques. Posts need to extend below the frost line (typically 48 inches deep around here) with proper concrete footings. This prevents the seasonal "frost heave" that can turn a perfectly aligned gate into a frustrating puzzle by springtime.
And for those sunny spots that get intense UV exposure, vinyl-coated materials with UV inhibitors are worth the investment. While black vinyl coating looks sharp, it tends to show UV damage faster than green or brown options. Our premium vinyl coatings can maintain their color for 20+ years with proper care.
For most of our New England customers across Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire, we find that vinyl-coated chain link fence materials offer the best overall performance. They stand up to our variable climate conditions while looking great year after year.
Want to learn more about getting your fence professionally installed? Check out our guide on Expert Fence Install Near You or explore the fascinating world of Chain-link fencing on Wikipedia. And of course, you can always learn about our chain link fencing installation services directly.
When it comes to chain link fence materials, galvanized steel remains the trusted workhorse of the industry. It's like that reliable pickup truck that keeps running year after year – nothing fancy, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.
The magic happens when steel wire gets its protective zinc coating, creating a barrier that fights off rust and corrosion. There are actually two ways this happens in the manufacturing process:
With Galvanized Before Weaving (GBW), each wire gets its zinc bath before being woven into the familiar diamond pattern. But the gold standard is Galvanized After Weaving (GAW), where the entire mesh gets dipped after it's formed. This ensures even those tight little intersections where moisture loves to hide get complete protection.
This 200-year-old technology has stood the test of time for good reason. A properly installed galvanized chain link fence typically rewards you with 15-20 years of faithful service. The classic silver appearance has become part of the American landscape, and many homeowners appreciate its straightforward, no-nonsense look.
One of the biggest selling points? It's incredibly DIY-friendly. If you're handy and have a few friends to help, installing galvanized chain link can be a satisfying weekend project that saves you considerable money.
If galvanized chain link is the practical pickup truck, think of vinyl-coated chain link fence materials as that same truck with a premium paint job and comfortable interior. It's the same reliable vehicle underneath, but with added curb appeal and comfort.
The vinyl coating process creates a PVC jacket around already-galvanized wire, essentially giving your fence double protection. It's like wearing both a raincoat and carrying an umbrella – you're covered from all angles.
Most of our customers in residential neighborhoods choose black vinyl coating because it visually "disappears" against landscaping. As one customer in Derry NH told us, "It's there when I need it, invisible when I don't." Green is our second most popular color, especially in heavily wooded areas, while brown blends beautifully with natural landscapes and wooden homes.
Parents and pet owners particularly appreciate the smooth surface of vinyl-coated chain link. No more snagged clothing or scratched paws! The coating also stays cooler to the touch in summer heat – a small but meaningful upgrade if you have curious little hands in your household.
With proper installation and quality materials, you can expect 20-30 years from vinyl-coated chain link, making it a smart long-term investment for your home.
For those living near the coast or in particularly harsh environments, aluminized chain link fence materials are the premium choice that pays dividends over time.
Rather than zinc, these fences feature an aluminum alloy coating that provides superior protection against the elements. The hot-dip process creates a smooth, consistent finish that's particularly resistant to salt spray – making it ideal for our coastal customers in Maine and New Hampshire.
"After replacing my galvanized fence twice in ten years, I finally invested in aluminized," shared one Portsmouth homeowner. "It's been perfect for eight years now with zero signs of corrosion."
While aluminized chain link comes with a higher initial price tag, the extended lifespan (typically 20-25 years) and reduced maintenance make it an excellent value over time. It maintains the same attractive silver appearance as galvanized but with significantly improved performance in challenging environments.
For environmentally conscious homeowners, there's another bonus – aluminized chain link is fully recyclable at the end of its life cycle.
Sometimes standard chain link just isn't enough. For specialized situations, mini-mesh and high-security chain link fence materials provide targeted solutions for specific challenges.
Mini-mesh shrinks the standard 2-inch diamonds down to 1-inch openings, creating a barrier that's much harder to climb or pass objects through. We often recommend this option for families with escape-artist small dogs or for properties requiring improved security.
These specialized materials can also be manufactured with heavier 6-gauge wire (remember, lower gauge numbers mean thicker wire) for maximum strength. The result is a virtually impenetrable barrier that still maintains visibility.
An unexpected benefit of mini-mesh is its superior performance in windy areas. The smaller openings significantly reduce wind load, meaning your fence is less likely to sway or sustain damage during those fierce New England nor'easters.
While mini-mesh costs more than standard chain link, the added security and performance make it worth considering for specialized applications like dog kennels, sports courts, and high-security areas.
A chain link fence is only as good as its framework – like a house needs a solid foundation, your fence needs proper support. Quality chain link fence materials must include the right posts, rails, and hardware to create a complete system.
The unsung heroes of your fence are the terminal posts – those thicker posts (typically 2⅜" to 4" in diameter) that anchor the corners, ends, and gates. Think of them as the main pillars holding everything together. Between these sturdy anchors, line posts (usually 1⅝" to 2" diameter) provide support every 8-10 feet.
The top rail ties everything together, creating a smooth, continuous line along the fence top. For homes with pets, we strongly recommend adding either a bottom rail or tension wire. As one customer humorously noted, "My beagle could squeeze through a keyhole if there was bacon on the other side!" A bottom rail eliminates that under-fence escape route.
The hardware might seem like small details, but they're crucial to your fence's performance. Tension bars and bands secure the fabric to terminal posts, while tie wires attach the mesh to line posts and top rails. These components work together like a well-rehearsed orchestra to create a harmonious, durable barrier.
For our northern New England customers, we recommend reducing post spacing to 8 feet to better handle heavy snow loads. Those extra posts are cheap insurance against winter damage.
For a comprehensive breakdown of all components, check out this helpful resource on Chain Link Fence Parts.
Standard chain link is wonderfully practical, but sometimes you want a little more – more privacy, more wind protection, or more features. That's where upgrades to your chain link fence materials come in.
Privacy slats transform an open chain link fence into a semi-private barrier. These thin strips weave through the diamonds to block 75-90% of visibility while maintaining the structural benefits of chain link. Available in colors from forest green to desert tan, they can complement your home's exterior and landscape beautifully.
"The slats were a game-changer for our backyard," shared a family in Exeter NH. "We still get the breeze, but neighbors can't see the kids' water fight chaos!"
For tennis courts, pools, and windy areas, windscreens offer seasonal protection. These fabric or mesh panels attach to the fence and can be removed when not needed – perfect for our variable New England weather.
The choice between a bottom rail and tension wire often comes down to your specific needs. While tension wire is more economical, a bottom rail provides rigid support that prevents even determined diggers from creating escape routes. For families with pets, the bottom rail is worth every penny.
If you're fencing a pool area, self-closing gates aren't just convenient – they're essential safety features and often required by local codes. The spring-loaded hinges ensure the gate closes automatically, providing peace of mind for families with young children.
Want to discuss which upgrades make sense for your property? Contact Best Local Fencing Company for personalized recommendations.
When you're investing in chain link fence materials, it's smart to look beyond just the upfront price tag. Let's break down what you can expect to pay, how long your fence will last, and what it takes to keep it looking great for years to come.
The cost of your fence will vary based on the quality and type of materials you choose:
Your budget will also need to account for gates (ranging from $150-500 each, depending on size and style), privacy features like slats (adding $3-7 per foot), and whether you opt for a sturdier bottom rail instead of a tension wire (a $1-3 per foot difference). Tricky terrain or extensive site prep can also bump up your total investment.
But here's the good news about chain link fence materials – they're built to last! A standard galvanized fence will typically serve you well for 15-20 years, while vinyl-coated options often extend that to 20-30 years. Aluminized chain link splits the difference at about 20-25 years. The posts and framework usually last 20-30 years when properly installed, and even the hardware should give you 15-25 years of reliable service.
Keeping your fence in tip-top shape is surprisingly simple. For galvanized chain link, just check annually for any rust spots (they happen to the best of us!), and treat them with a wire brush and zinc-rich paint. You might need to tighten hardware occasionally and give it a wash with mild soap when it's looking grimy.
Vinyl-coated fencing is even more forgiving – just rinse it with your garden hose and mild detergent when it gets dirty, and keep an eye out for any scratches in the coating (touch these up promptly to prevent corrosion underneath). Aluminized chain link is practically maintenance-free – just give it an occasional cleaning and check the hardware now and then.
No matter which chain link fence materials you choose, a little TLC goes a long way. Keep those bushes and vines from taking over your fence line, and tell your teenagers to put down the weed whacker near the posts! Check the tension once a year, and give those gate hinges a squirt of lubricant each season to keep everything swinging smoothly.
Many of our customers throughout New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine tell us their chain link fences have stood strong for 25+ years with minimal fuss. That's the kind of long-term value that makes chain link fence materials such a popular choice for homes and businesses alike.
Looking for quality materials at competitive prices? Check out options like YARDGARD Galvanized Fabric for DIY projects, or contact us about our professional installation services that take the guesswork out of the equation. Contact Brentwood Fence for a N.H. fence installation quote and get expert advice tailored to your project goals.
Most homeowners ask us this question first, and here's the simple answer: for typical New England backyards, 11-gauge chain link fence materials hit the sweet spot between durability and cost.
If you've got large, energetic dogs or specific security concerns, stepping up to 9-gauge makes sense—you'll feel the difference immediately when you handle it. It's noticeably more rigid and stands up better to pushing, climbing, and our infamous New England snow loads.
On a tighter budget? 11½-gauge can work for basic needs, but understand you're trading some durability for those upfront savings. One customer in Concord told us, "I wish I'd spent the extra $200 for heavier gauge—my lab leans against the fence watching squirrels, and I'm already seeing some stretching."
You'll get significantly more years from vinyl-coated chain link—typically 5-10 years more than galvanized in the same conditions. While standard galvanized typically performs well for 15-20 years, quality vinyl-coated chain link fence materials often reach the 20-30 year mark with minimal fuss.
Why the difference? Think of it as wearing both a raincoat and carrying an umbrella. The vinyl-coated options give you double protection: first, the wire underneath is galvanized, then the PVC coating adds a second moisture barrier. This dual-layer approach particularly shines in coastal areas like Portsmouth or along Maine's shoreline, where salt exposure can quickly turn a standard galvanized fence into a rust showcase.
As one customer in Hampton Beach put it: "My neighbor's galvanized fence started showing rust spots in year three. My vinyl-coated fence still looks brand new after eight years in the same salty air."
The answer depends on what you're looking for—permanent solution or seasonal flexibility.
Privacy slats become part of your fence, woven directly into the chain link fence materials. They reduce wind by 70-85% and create a more finished look that blends nicely with your landscape. They're perfect if you want year-round wind protection plus the bonus of privacy from neighbors or street traffic.
Windscreens offer similar wind reduction (60-90% depending on the material) but can be removed when not needed. They're ideal for tennis courts where wind conditions vary or for homeowners who might want an open fence during summer gatherings but protection during blustery fall days.
For most homes in our region, we recommend slats for permanent installations where both privacy and wind protection matter. As a Bedford customer recently told us, "The black slats disappeared into the background while keeping my neighbor's leaves in their yard where they belong!"
This choice often comes down to what you're containing and your budget priorities.
A bottom rail is essentially a horizontal pipe running at ground level between posts. It provides rigid support for your chain link fence materials and creates a clean, finished appearance. More importantly, it stops small animals from pushing underneath—something many pet owners learn the hard way! It adds about $1-3 per foot to your project cost.
A bottom tension wire is exactly what it sounds like—a high-tension wire stretched along the bottom of your fence. It's more economical and handles uneven terrain better, but determined diggers (both the four-legged and two-legged variety) might find their way underneath.
For most residential installations in Exeter, Manchester, and surrounding areas, bottom tension wire works perfectly fine. However, if you have small dogs with escape artist tendencies, the bottom rail is worth every penny. As one Dover customer laughed, "My dachshund could squeeze through a mail slot—the bottom rail was non-negotiable!"
Choosing the right chain link fence materials isn't just about finding something that fits your budget—it's about creating a secure, long-lasting boundary that works for your specific needs. Whether you're protecting a backyard in Concord NH, enhancing your property's look in Haverhill MA, or battling coastal corrosion along Maine's shoreline, quality materials make all the difference in how your fence performs over time.
After exploring all your options, here's what matters most when making your decision:
For maximum durability and strength, 9-gauge fabric with aluminized or vinyl coating will stand up to almost anything New England weather can throw at it. If you're watching your budget while still wanting solid performance, standard galvanized 11-gauge delivers excellent value for most residential applications.
Many of our homeowners in residential neighborhoods prefer vinyl-coated chain link in black or green because it simply disappears into the landscape. As one customer told us, "I hardly notice it's there until I need it." For serious security concerns, mini-mesh or 9-gauge fabric at appropriate heights provides peace of mind without breaking the bank.
And if you're near the coast? Don't even consider standard galvanized. Aluminized or vinyl-coated materials will save you from premature replacement when salt air starts doing its damage.
At Brentwood Fence, we've stocked our inventory with chain link fence materials specifically chosen to handle New England's unique challenges—from humid summers to snowy winters and everything in between. Our team serves communities throughout New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine with both expert advice and professional installation services.
A chain link fence works as a complete system. Each component—from the fabric to posts to hardware—depends on the others. Cutting corners on materials might save money today but often leads to repairs and early replacement down the road. Quality materials might cost a bit more upfront, but they deliver lower lifetime costs and far fewer headaches.
Whether you're a weekend warrior ready to tackle installation yourself or you'd rather leave it to the professionals, starting with the right materials ensures your fence will protect your property for years to come. Have questions about your specific project in Portsmouth, Derry, Dover, or anywhere else we serve? Our team is ready with personalized recommendations custom to your property's unique needs.
For more information about our services, visit our FAQ: Fence Installation Service NH, MA, ME page or check out Where We Install Fences to see if we serve your area.
Copyright 2022 Brentwood Fence | All Rights Reserved | Sitemap | Website by Plumb Development a Digital Marketing Agency