Chain Reaction - Finding the Perfect Metal Chain Link for Your Project
21
Aug
2025
Author:
Rob Thibeault
Understanding Metal Chain Link Fencing
Metal chain link fencing is a popular choice for property boundaries worldwide. For a dependable and cost-effective fencing solution, here’s a quick overview:
What it is: A woven fence made from steel wire that forms a distinct diamond-shaped pattern. It's also known as wire netting, cyclone fence, or diamond-mesh fence.
Common Materials: Typically made from galvanized steel (silver finish) or steel coated with vinyl, polyester, or PVC for color (black, green, brown) and added protection.
Key Benefits: It's known for being durable, low-maintenance, and economical. It is also straightforward to install professionally.
Primary Uses: It is used for residential yards, playgrounds, commercial properties, sports fields, and high-security areas. It's considered the number one selling fence system globally.
For homeowners, metal chain link is a sturdy, long-lasting replacement for outdated fencing. Its open design allows visibility and sunlight, while modern coatings add aesthetic appeal and rust resistance. Professional fence installation ensures your new fence is built to last, boosting your home's security and curb appeal.
Choosing Your Ideal Metal Chain Link: Materials and Coatings
Today's metal chain link fencing has evolved beyond the classic silver look, offering a wide range of materials and coatings. These choices improve durability, provide superior rust protection, and come in various colors. Selecting the right material and coating is crucial as it directly impacts your fence's longevity, appearance, and suitability for your needs.
The primary purpose of any coating is to protect the inner steel wire from the elements, preventing rust and wear. This protection ensures your fence lasts for decades, making it a smart investment. Coatings also provide aesthetic flexibility, allowing your fence to blend in with the landscape or stand out as a design element. For more details, explore our resources on More info about chain link materials.
Galvanized Metal Chain Link: The Classic Choice
Galvanized metal chain link is the traditional silver-colored fence. This look comes from a protective zinc coating applied to the steel wire, which corrodes before the steel, offering excellent protection against rust.
There are two main types of galvanization:
GAW (Galvanized After Weaving): The steel wire is woven into mesh before being dipped in zinc. This process coats everything, including cut ends, providing a thicker, more uniform layer of protection. It's ideal for industrial use or harsh coastal environments like Portsmouth or Dover, NH.
GBW (Galvanized Before Weaving): The steel wire is coated with zinc before being woven. While still protective, the weaving process can leave small areas exposed. GBW is often a more budget-friendly option for residential applications where extreme protection isn't required.
Regardless of the method, galvanized metal chain link is an affordable, low-maintenance, and durable choice that has been a top pick for decades.
Vinyl and Polymer Coated Fencing
For a combination of toughness and aesthetics, consider vinyl (PVC) or polyester-coated metal chain link fences. These start with a galvanized steel core and add a colorful layer of vinyl or polyester. This extra coating provides superior rust protection and a more finished look.
Common colors include:
Black: A popular, sleek choice that tends to blend into the background, making it ideal for homes in Exeter or Manchester, NH.
Green: Often chosen for a natural look that complements gardens and recreational areas.
Brown: Provides a warm, earthy tone that suits certain home styles and natural settings.
These coated fences are highly durable, resisting UV-fading and requiring even less maintenance than galvanized options. They are a favorite for homes, playgrounds, and businesses seeking a polished look without sacrificing strength.
Aluminized and Stainless Steel Options
For the most demanding conditions, aluminized and stainless steel are premium metal chain link options.
Aluminized steel wire is coated with aluminum instead of zinc. It offers superior corrosion protection, especially in industrial areas or salty coastal air, making it a great choice for coastal Maine. It has a bright, silvery finish similar to galvanized steel but with improved performance.
Stainless steel wire is the top-tier choice for ultimate rust protection. Made from stainless steel alloys (like 304SS), it naturally resists rust and pitting. While it has a higher initial cost, its superior durability and sleek appearance make it perfect for high-end commercial, marine, or specialized industrial applications where longevity is critical.
Understanding the Specifications: Gauge, Mesh, and Height
When selecting a metal chain link fence, you'll encounter terms like "gauge," "mesh size," and "height." Understanding these specifications is key to choosing the right fence for your needs, whether for a backyard in Concord, NH, or a commercial property in Haverhill, MA.
Wire Gauge: This indicates the thickness of the steel wire. A lower the gauge number means a thicker, stronger wire. For example, a 9-gauge wire is more robust than an 11-gauge wire. Common gauges for metal chain link are 9, 11, or 11.5.
Mesh Size: This is the measurement of the diamond-shaped openings in the fence. The standard size is 2 inches. A smaller mesh size is harder to climb and cut, increasing security. A 1.75-inch mesh is often used for tennis courts to prevent balls from getting stuck.
Height: This is the fence's overall height, measured in feet. Common heights range from 3 feet to 8 feet in one-foot increments, with 3 feet 6 inches, 10 feet, and 12 feet also being popular. The height you choose depends on the fence's purpose, such as containment, privacy, or security.
This table shows how these specifications align with common applications:
Wire Gauge
Mesh Size
Common Heights
Typical Applications
11 or 11.5
2"
3', 4', 5', 6'
Residential backyards, pet containment, property lines, temporary fencing
9
2"
4', 5', 6', 7', 8'
Commercial properties, light industrial, general security, playgrounds, ballparks
9
1.75"
10', 12'
Tennis courts, baseball fields, other sports enclosures
"Selvage" refers to how the top and bottom edges of the metal chain link fabric are finished, which impacts safety and security.
Knuckled (KK): The wire ends are bent into a smooth, closed loop. This is the standard choice for residential fences, playgrounds, and areas where public safety is a priority, especially for fences under 6 feet tall. Many local codes require this finish for safety.
Twisted (KT or TT): The wire ends are twisted together into a sharp point. This finish acts as a climbing deterrent and is typically used for high-security applications, often in conjunction with barbed wire.
The interlocking spiral design of chain link dates to the mid-19th century, inspired by cloth weaving machines. A key 1930 patent by Frank J. Mafera improved safety by eliminating the "ragged selvages" of early designs, making the fencing more practical for everyday use. You can learn more about its origins in The history of chain link manufacturing.
Common Applications: From Backyards to Ballparks
The versatility of metal chain link fencing is one of its greatest strengths. It serves a wide array of purposes, making it a go-to choice for countless projects across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine.
Common applications where metal chain link excels:
Residential Security and Containment: A favorite for homeowners, it's perfect for creating secure backyards, containing pets, and defining property lines. Its open weave provides visibility, which is a security advantage.
Commercial Properties: Businesses choose it for its durability, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. It's ideal for securing equipment yards, parking areas, and industrial perimeters.
Sports Facilities:Metal chain link is perfect for athletic fields. For tennis courts and ballparks, 10 or 12-foot heights are common to ensure safety and contain balls. We offer specialized Sports court fencing.
High-Security Settings: When specified correctly, a metal chain link fence is a key part of a robust security system. With sufficient height, small mesh sizes, and additions like barbed wire, it's used for airports, utility substations, and correctional facilities.
Customization and Privacy Improvements
Modern metal chain link fencing offers more customization and privacy options than many realize, allowing it to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Color Choices: Vinyl and polymer coatings in black, green, or brown allow the fence to blend into the landscape. A black fence, for instance, can seem to disappear from a distance.
Privacy Options: To add seclusion, consider these options:
Privacy Slats: Plastic or aluminum slats woven into the mesh can provide up to 90% visual blockage. See our guide on the Best privacy slats for chain link fence.
Windscreens/Privacy Screens: Mesh fabrics attached to the fence offer privacy and act as windbreaks, popular for sports courts.
Landscape Integration: Planting shrubs or climbing vines along the fence line creates a natural, living privacy screen.
Factors Influencing Your Metal Chain Link Cost
Several factors contribute to the final cost of a metal chain link fence. While generally economical, the price depends on your project's specific requirements.
Key cost factors include:
Fence Height: Taller fences require more material and labor, increasing the cost.
Total Linear Feet: The total length of the fence is a primary cost driver.
Material Type: Galvanized is the most budget-friendly. Vinyl-coated, aluminized, and stainless steel options are priced higher.
Wire Gauge: Thicker wire (lower gauge) uses more steel and costs more.
Site Preparation: Difficult terrain or extensive clearing can add to labor costs.
Professional Installation: Labor for expert installation ensures a durable, long-lasting fence.
Gates and Hardware: The number, size, and type of gates and fittings will impact the total price.
We consider all these factors to provide a transparent quote that balances quality, durability, and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Chain Link Fences
Here are answers to some common questions about metal chain link fencing to help you make the best decision for your property.
What maintenance does a chain link fence require?
Metal chain link fencing is famously low-maintenance, designed to provide decades of service with minimal upkeep. A well-installed fence can last 30 years or more with just a few simple steps:
Periodic Cleaning: A simple wash with soapy water and a hose can remove dirt and grime to keep the fence looking its best, especially for vinyl-coated options.
Annual Inspection: A quick look-over once a year for any loose fittings or damage can help you catch small issues before they become larger problems.
Clear Debris: Keep the fence line clear of piled leaves or overgrown vegetation to prevent moisture buildup and prolong the life of the fence.
How secure is a chain link fence?
The security of a metal chain link fence is adaptable to your needs, based on its specifications and features. Any fence acts as a visual deterrent, clearly marking property lines. For improved security, consider these factors:
Height and Gauge: A taller fence (e.g., 6 feet or higher) made with a thicker wire (e.g., 9-gauge) is a more formidable barrier.
Security Add-ons: Features like barbed or razor wire at the top are a strong deterrent against climbing.
Smaller Mesh: Using fabric with small openings (1-inch mini-mesh or smaller) makes the fence very difficult to climb or cut with standard tools.
Tension Wire: A bottom tension wire prevents the fence from being lifted.
While a determined intruder can breach any fence, a professionally installed metal chain link fence provides a robust and reliable security barrier. Proper installation, with posts set in concrete and fabric stretched tightly, is key to maximizing its effectiveness.
How is a chain link fence installed?
Professional installation is crucial for ensuring a durable, secure metal chain link fence. Our expert teams follow a precise process:
Preparation: We mark the fence line and clear the area to ensure a smooth installation.
Set Terminal Posts: Corner, end, and gate posts are set deep in concrete to handle the fence's tension.
Set Line Posts: Intermediate posts are spaced evenly and also set in concrete for stability.
Install Framework: A top rail and/or tension wires are installed to provide a rigid frame for the fabric.
Stretch Fabric: The metal chain link fabric is unrolled and stretched extremely tight between terminal posts using specialized tools. Proper tension is critical to prevent sagging.
Secure Fabric: The stretched fabric is fastened to the posts and rails with fence ties.
Install Gates: Finally, gates are hung and adjusted to ensure they swing smoothly and latch securely.
This professional process guarantees your fence is built to withstand the elements for decades.
Secure Your Project with the Right Fencing Partner
Choosing the right fence is a big decision. Whether for a backyard in Derry, NH, or a commercial site in Concord, NH, metal chain link fencing offers an unbeatable mix of durability, versatility, and value. This investment's long-term benefits are fully realized when quality materials are paired with expert installation.
Every project is unique, so we begin with a thorough consultation to understand your needs, budget, and preferences. Our team will help you select the ideal metal chain link solution, including the right gauge, mesh size, height, and coating to balance security, privacy, and visual appeal.
Partnering with us means investing in peace of mind. We use only high-quality metal chain link materials built to withstand the New England climate. Our experienced installation teams, serving areas from Exeter, NH, to Haverhill, MA, apply meticulous precision to every job, ensuring your fence is structurally sound and installed to the highest standards.
A professionally installed metal chain link fence provides reliable security, improves property value, and offers an enduring solution for decades to come.
Ready to secure your property with a dependable metal chain link fence? We're here to help.
