Chain Link Fence: Ultimate Guide to Smart, Budget-Friendly Security

Chain Link Fencing; black chain link fence

When it comes to securing your home and ensuring the safety of your loved ones and pets, choosing the right fence is crucial. For many families, finding a balance between affordability and durability is key. This is where chain link fencing truly shines, offering an economical solution from initial installation through to longevity and maintenance. However, not all chain link fences are created equal. There are different grades of chain link, coatings, and varying post sizes used in the installation process.

Understanding these nuances is essential for making an informed decision. Did you know a lower gauge number on the wire mesh means that it is thicker and stronger?!? Therefore, using a lower gauge mesh and thicker, larger diameter posts will result in a chain link fence that lasts longer, holds up to wear and tear, and requires less maintenance but might cost a little more to install. Without this knowledge, you might not be comparing apples to apples when evaluating quotes from different contractors.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to evaluate chain link fencing options from various contractors, focusing on factors like material quality, installation practices and warranties. For those who live in Minnesota or Wisconsin, we’ll also explain why A to Z Quality Fencing stands out as the best value for your investment, ensuring you receive a high-quality, budget-friendly fencing solution that meets your needs.

Evaluating Chain Link Fencing Options

1. Material Quality

  • Type of Metal: Standard chain link fences are typically made from galvanized steel, which provides basic rust resistance. However, higher-quality fences use advanced coatings or heavier gauge wires to enhance durability. When comparing contractors, ask about the type and thickness (gauge) of the metal used. The smaller the gauge, the thicker the mesh fabric. For example, most contractors use 9-gauge galvanized steel mesh for residential installations. A to Z Quality Fencing uses 8-gauge for residential installations and even lower meshes for commercial or industrial applications. For example, a prison would use 6-gauge.
  • Coating: Look for fences with vinyl or polymer coatings, as these add an extra layer of protection against the elements. These coatings not only improve longevity but also reduce maintenance needs. Our black vinyl chain link has a 9-gauge galvanized steel core and the vinyl coating results in a very durable 8-gauge mesh.
  • Post diameter: Posts are critical for the structural integrity of the fence. Most installers use 2″ posts on the terminals and for gate posts and 1-5/8″ line posts. However, these smaller line posts can bend more easily under pressure. A to Z Quality Fencing uses robust 2.5″ posts for terminals and gates and 2″ line posts, ensuring superior stability and fence strength.
  • Post thickness: Different types of pipes have different types of thickness. Look for Schedule 40 or Schedule 20 posts versus Residential tube which is what many contractors use and you’ll find at big box stores. Schedule 40 and Schedule 20 will hold up to much more stress and are unlikely to bend. Residential tube bends much more easily.

2. Durability and Weather Resistance

  • Rust and Corrosion Protection: Ensure that the fencing materials include proper galvanization or advanced coatings. Some contractors may cut costs by using lower-quality materials that are prone to rusting over time.
  • Weather Conditions: Depending on your local weather, the fence should be able to withstand extreme conditions like heavy rain, snow, or intense sunlight. Verify that the offered materials are designed for your specific climate.

3. Installation Quality

chain link fence posts not installed deep enough, frost heave
Frost heave due to posts not being installed deep enough
  • Professional Installation: The expertise of the installation team significantly impacts the fence’s durability and functionality. Choose contractors with a proven track record and positive customer reviews.
  • Installation Method: The method of installing posts and mesh can significantly affect the overall strength and durability of the fence. There are two primary methods: pounding posts into the ground versus digging and setting posts in concrete. Installers who pound posts into the ground generally go up to 4 feet deeper than those who dig and set posts. This “no mess, no dig” installation method results in a cleaner, more durable, and better fence installation. By securely anchoring posts deep into the ground without the need for concrete, this approach minimizes disruption to your yard and enhances the fence’s long-term stability.
  • Warranty and Support: Reliable contractors offer warranties on their work and materials. This indicates confidence in their products and services. Ask about the length and coverage of warranties. Chain link warranties may cover material defects, protection from rust, and installation.

4. Cost vs. Value

  • Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings: While initial quotes might vary, consider the long-term costs associated with maintenance and replacements. Higher-quality chain link fences might have a slightly higher upfront cost but save money in the long run due to reduced maintenance and longer lifespan.

Compare Chain Link Fence Companies

When selecting a chain link fence provider, it’s essential to consider key factors such as quality, longevity, and customer satisfaction. Use the comparison chart below to see how A to Z Quality Fencing stacks up against other fence companies. Our commitment to superior materials, expert installation techniques, and exceptional customer service ensures that our chain link fences will outlast any competitors’.

When price is the primary determining factor, A to Z Quality Fencing offers an economy version of chain link fencing that still outperforms competitors’ offerings in terms of durability and performance. We use quality materials and expert installation techniques to ensure that even our most cost-effective options provide reliable security and longevity.

See for yourself why A to Z Quality Fencing is the best choice for a durable and reliable chain link fence solution.

 A to Z Quality FencingA to Z Economy GradeMost Competitors
Price (Initial Cost)Get an estimateGet an estimate?
Customer Satisfaction**********?
Mesh Thickness
(a lower number is thicker)
8-gauge vinyl fabric or
9-gauge galvanized
8-gauge vinyl fabric or
9-gauge galvanized
9-gauge vinyl fabric or
11.5-gauge galvanized
Frame Work*SS20 (SS40 Available)SS20Residential Tube
Terminals, Corners
& Gate Posts
2.5″2″2″ – 2.5″
Line Posts2″2″1-5/8″
Top Rail1-5/8″1-3/8″1-3/8″
GatesFully WeldedFully WeldedCorner Pieces & Screws
Installation MethodNo Mess, No DigNo Mess, No DigSet in Concrete
Underground Post
Depth**
4′ fence driven 4′ deep
5′ fence driven 5′ deep
6′ fence driven 5′ deep
4′ fence driven 4′ deep
5′ fence driven 5′ deep
6′ fence driven 6′ deep
All fences set 3′ deep in concrete
Warranties15 years materials and labor15 years materials and labor10 years or less
Job CompletionMost jobs done in 1 dayMost jobs done in 1 dayMultiple days to weeks
Client Clean UpNone – no dirt pilesNone – no dirt pilesDirt piles to clean up,
landscape restoration
* Watch the video on the bendability of the different post materials. It only takes one person to bend residential tube.
** Anything set less than 48″ or 4′ is subject to frost heave in climates where the ground freezes.

Maintaining Your Chain Link Fence

Chain link fences are nearly maintenance-free, but like anything, some periodic upkeep is necessary to ensure they remain in optimal condition. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your fence and keeps it looking its best. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

Regular Inspections

  • Periodically check the fence for any signs of wear or damage. Addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line.

Simple Cleaning

  • Use a garden hose to wash off dirt and debris. For tougher stains, a mixture of water and mild detergent can be used with a soft brush.

Preventive Measures

  • Trim any vegetation growing near the fence to prevent it from causing damage. Ensure no heavy objects lean against the fence to maintain its structural integrity.

By following these straightforward maintenance steps, you can keep your chain link fence in excellent condition for many years to come.

Transforming Your Chain Link Fence into a Privacy Fence

Black chain link fence with black privacy slats

Enhance the privacy and aesthetic appeal of your chain link fence by adding privacy slats. This simple yet effective upgrade can transform your standard chain link fence into a more secluded barrier, offering increased security and a polished look. At A to Z Quality Fencing, we recommend this as a DIY project because the labor required to install the slats will negate the cost savings of initially choosing a chain link fence over other privacy fence solutions. By tackling this project yourself, you can maintain your budget while achieving the desired level of privacy.

In addition, you’ll need to consider your mesh spacing. A higher-gauge chain link fence will have a more spaced out diamond pattern resulting in bigger gaps between the slats and less privacy.

Conclusion

Choosing the right chain link fence can make a significant difference in the security and aesthetics of your property. By understanding the various components, from material quality to installation methods, you can make an informed decision that ensures both durability and value for your investment. At A to Z Quality Fencing, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch products and services that stand the test of time. Whether you’re looking for a basic chain link fence or our most popular black vinyl chain link fence, our commitment to quality, longevity, and customer satisfaction sets us apart from the competition. Trust A to Z Quality Fencing to provide a secure, cost-effective, and attractive fencing solution tailored to your needs.

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Premium Rails

Much like our fence pickets, our company takes care to only build with rails with minor defects. Taking the time to use premium fence materials helps ensure your family can enjoy the security and privacy of your new fence for years to come.

Decorative Details

Our team is committed to going the extra mile in every detail of your fence project.

Customize your fence project by asking about our add-ons we offer: decorative post caps, trim, and custom railings.

Stronger Posts

We understand that your fence is only as strong as your posts. This is why we take great care to use the strongest posts, free of defects. We not only offer heavy-duty wood posts but our no-mess, no-dig installation adds a galvanized steel post inside the wooden post for an even stronger post.

All high-quality posts are built to ensure that your fence stands strong for years.

Better Fence Pickets

We build with only the best fence pickets. These are not the typical fence pickets anyone can buy from the local big-box stores. We have partnered with suppliers to provide the highest quality wood fencing materials.

Stronger Top Rails

The Modern Aluminum Fence top rails are routed into the posts creating an even stronger fence installation! The U channels are screwed to the frame and the entire fence is quickly assembled on-site using our no-mess, no-dig installation.

Modern, Sleek Design

A to Z Quality Fencing’s proprietary Modern Aluminum Fence features one of the most modern, sleek designs on the market. These fences are long-lasting and bring the best of A to Z’s vinyl (including simulated wood finishes) and aluminum products together, allowing for custom fabrication of modern, industrial, privacy fencing.

Stronger Fencing

Compared to wood, vinyl fencing is much stronger. Vinyl fencing is flexible and durable, which helps vinyl out-perform wood fencing in windy conditions and with environmental exposure to UV rays and weather.

Versatile Inlay Options

Want to create a super durable fence that’s as unique as you? With a Modern Aluminum Fence, you can pair A to Z Quality Fencing’s commercial aluminum fence with the inlay that best fits your style. Our vinyl inlay is available in 9 colors including various simulated wood tones, so you can create the exact look you want.

Durable Frame

Modern Aluminum Fence posts are composed of galvanized steel posts covered by our commercial-grade aluminum with its superior powder coat finish to create a stronger, longer-lasting fence that is more than weather-resistant – it will not rust with exposure to the elements!

Easy to Clean

Vinyl fencing can be cleaned easily with a regular garden hose. If you get a little mildew from moisture or shady conditions, you can use a mild dish soap and then spray off the fence with a garden hose. Vinyl fences are very easy to clean, making them a great option for low-maintenance fencing.

More Options Available

Vinyl fencing is available in a wide variety of configurations to match any property, home, or purpose. Iconic, white vinyl picket fences give a feel of classic Americana with that white-picket-fence-style. Darker vinyl fences can be installed to make a space look more elegant or modern. From short picket to tall privacy, vinyl fencing can be designed to enhance your backyard or business.

Strict Standards

All our aluminum fence meets BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators) code. These strict standards ensure your fencing is sturdy, durable, and non-climbable, protecting your property no matter if you are fencing in a business, backyard, or swimming pool!

The BOCA health and safety codes are critical when installing fencing around a swimming pool because they prevent children from getting over, under, or through our aluminum fencing.

Beautiful Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are a bright, bold fence choice. Available in a variety of colors, vinyl fencing can be installed in a many configurations to help you enhance the beauty of your property. And, because vinyl isn’t as porous as wood, vinyl fences retain their color and finish much longer than wood fencing so you can enjoy your fence for years to come.

Superior Powder Coating

Our superior powder coating provides a smooth, durable finish, more resistant to chips, scratches, fading, rust, and corrosion than other finishes. This long-lasting, low-maintenance finish results from our application and curing processes that melt the powder particles to create a smooth, continuous, and permanent bond to the aluminum.

In addition, our paint finish meets AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) specifications.

Custom Fabrication

You’re steps away from a one-of-a-kind aluminum fence made just for you! Our high-quality aluminum fencing comes from our sister company A to Z Fence Supplies. We assemble each aluminum fence to meet your unique design requirements, including color, finials, puppy panels, O-rings, and custom top edges.

Stronger Posts & Hardware

A benefit of choosing our team to install your chain link fence is that we use only the most durable posts and hardware.

Chain-link fences are known for being the last fences standing during hurricanes, tornados, and other severe weather events.

Unparalleled Durability

The weakest point of any fence is where the post comes out of the ground. Our no-mess, no-dig installation process pounds a galvanized steel post into the soil. Then we slide an aluminum post over the galvanized steel posts. A steel post is stronger at ground level than an aluminum post.

Our high-quality aluminum fence, combined with our no-mess, no-dig installation process, creates a highly durable aluminum fence.

Top Quality Rails

We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to ensure your investment is built to last.

Adding a top rail to your chain link fence project creates an extra level of durability and security.

Premium Chain Link Mesh

Our chain link mesh offers a high level of security for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Manufactured with you in mind to provide you with security and beauty at the same time.

Nice Finishing Caps

Our team prides themselves on putting in the little details that make your fence unique to you. Ask your representative about adding premium finishing caps to your Chain Link fence project.