Chain link fences are a commonly used type of metal fence suitable for many applications. Used mainly in commercial settings, this affordable barrier is used to secure entire properties or in smaller installations such as sports and recreational fields, around swimming pools, and even to create dog enclosures. Properly installed by skilled chain link fence services, these fencing systems are sturdy and durable, composed of the four main components as listed below.
- Framework - The first and most important component of all chain link fences is the fencing framework. This framework consists of steel tubing that acts as posts and top rails, creating a frame onto which the steel mesh fabric is hung. For a proper installation, the steel posts must be fit with top rails and then set into holes filled with concrete. Once the concrete dries, the posts will be secure enough to hang the mesh fabric on without risk of pulling the posts down. For additional security, a bottom rail might also be used to further frame out the fence.
- Steel Mesh Fabric - The next component of a strong chain link installment is the metal mesh fence fabric. This is constructed from steel wire that is bent and then interlocked to create a woven fabric that is flexible, yet highly durable. Different gauges of wire are used to create barriers of differing strengths. Generally, the wire is galvanized so it is resistant to corrosion for many years. It can also be dipped in a PVC coating before weaving to create a more attractive option than just the bare wire. When installed by chain link fence services, the fabric is hung off the top rail and stretched between the posts, creating a tight barrier. If a bottom rail is used, it is affixed to that as well.
- Fittings - There are a number of fittings that chain link fence services use to to erect a strong barrier made from chain link fabric. Those include top caps that sit over the top end of the posts and rail ends that hold the top and bottom rails in place. To install the mesh fabric, tension bands are used that go around the posts and attach to the links of the fabric. Tie wires are then used over the top and bottom rails to keep the mesh fabric hung snugly, preventing the fabric from moving away from those supports.
- Gates - Lastly, most chain link fences will use some sort of gate, whether it is a small, hinged gate for people to pass through, longer hinged gates with supports for vehicles to pass through, or even large gates supported by a wheel on the bottom to bear the weight of the gate to prevent it from sagging. All gates are hung using various gate fittings and typically require a latch fitting to keep them closed. Some installations use heavy chain and a lock when the gate must remain secured.
Chain link fences are fairly simple to install in most cases. To ensure the fence is durable and does not sag and lose its strength, the poles must be set in concrete. Doing so can be a bit challenging, so it is best to hire experienced chain link fence services to put up this type of fence or at least set the posts. When done correctly with sturdy, set posts and fabric properly tensioned on the framework, these fences make suitable and economical barriers that can be tailored to fit many different needs!
