What You Should Know About Chain Link Fences
There are many different types of fences in existence today, but one of the most commonly used of all is none other than the traditional chain link. This style can be found in just about every part of the world, on residential properties, commercial businesses and on school campuses. There are numerous reasons why this style of fence is so popular, though it is important to install it properly and maintain it in order to ensure it lasts for as long as possible. If you are considering a chain link fence for your property, here’s what you should know:
The Benefits of a Chain Link Fence
As a barrier, a chain link fence of course serves the primary purposes of a fence in the first place: privacy, security and even appearance. That said, it also happens to be a lot more cost effective than other types of fencing, saving property owners a ton whether they need a lot of it or just a little. They can also be installed rather quickly (usually in less than a day), and are also usually flexible enough to fit around any property (hills and curved boundaries are not obstacles).
As for appearance, this is really just another benefit of chain link. Many people like the fact that they can see through it, providing more sunlight and an open feel. Others choose to create a more private effect by growing ivy or other plants along their chain link fence. Of course, chain link can also be painted a wide variety of colors for those who want it to coordinate further twith their personal tastes.
Other benefits include:
- Security– Pets and small children have a contained space to run around in
- Openness with neighbors– While these fences do provide privacy, many people like the fact that they can easily communicate with their neighbors and foster relationships.
- High durability– Chain link fencing are almost shockingly durable. Thanks to their ability to withstand just about any weather condition, they are sometimes referred to as “hurricane fences”. Additionally, mold and natural pests like termites are not a threat.
- Low Rust Risk– Thanks to a galvanization process used on modern chain link fences, the risk of rust is relatively low compared to other metal materials.
- Easy Maintenance– These fences are fairly easy to keep up, and on the rare occasion when lasting damage does occur, it usually just involves a post or small sections that need to be replaced.
- Increased Property Value– Well maintained fencing always ups the value of any property
Things to Consider Before Installation
Now, before just marching ahead and installing a chain link fence on any property, it is important to take a few things in to consideration. For example, some areas have specific zoning and construction laws that may restrict what kind of fence you can use on your property, and these laws may also affect where it can be placed. You should always do your research on these before making your decision, but of course consulting with an experienced fencing contractor can also help.
And as great a choice as chain link fences usually are, there are also a couple of downsides to consider. The most obvious here is that they do not provide as much privacy as some other types of fencing, and it is also wise to consider the fact that they do not provide as much security (chain link can easily be climbed by those who are determined). Nevertheless, if your highest values are with affordability and the various other benefits that chain link fencing can provide, then these small shortcomings may not be an issue.
Finding the Right Contractor
The quality of chain link fencing depends greatly on how it is installed. A poorly aligned or badly measured fence, for example, may wear down and sag not long after it is installed. If you’re unsure of how exactly to find the right contractor for the job, following these points is a good rule of thumb:
- Experience– Make sure the contractor has years of experiencing specifically with chain link fencing. Furthermore, they should have experience working on the same type of property as your own (beware of hiring someone who only has experience with residential jobs for a commercial one, for example)
- High Responsiveness– Any contractor who is serious about their work and their clients will respond quickly and reasonably to all inquiries
- Attention to Detail– Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions. A good contractor will pay close attention to details and will be able to answer everything.
- Proper Accreditation and Certifications– Take a look at what your local laws require for contractors, and make sure that the business in question had everything they need to legally perform the work. BBB Accreditation and commercial insurance are also good signs.
- Good Value– It’s not always wise to go with the cheapest option, nor is it best to go with the most expensive. Your contractor should be priced fairly for the work they are performing while still providing high quality services.
Contact Western Fence Co. to learn more about how we meet all of these points and more.
Fence Maintenance
Once your fence is installed, it is important that you take proper care of it so that it lasts for a long time. It is a good idea to clean it regularly (usually just spraying with a water hose and gently wiping away any tougher soiled areas will be enough). You should also check it for loose components, especially around the posts. When caught early, the fence can easily be tightened before it worsens into a bigger problem. At Western Fence Co., we can provide you with all the information you need about keeping your fence looking like new and lasting for decades.
