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Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are more often used for
security or containment than decoration.
To be an effective security fence, the fence
needs to be strong, secured at the bottom,
and topped with an appropriate deterent (such
as razor wire). Even so, chain link fences
can be defeated by ladders, coats or blankets
thrown over the top, or wire cutters. Fences
used for pools and tennis courts can be more
friendly.
Chain link fencing comes in a range of weights
(gauges), mesh sizes, and types of protective
coatings.
Wire Diameter (Gauge)
The diameter of wire and the thickness of
metal used in the poles and other components
(referred to as the "gauge") correlates
with the strength and durability of the fence.
Contrary to intuiton, a higher gauge means
a smaller diameter or thinner width. A fence
made from thin components will deform more
easily under weight or in a collision. Thus,
lower cost, high gauge fences (designed for
temporary use) most often will prove to be
a bad bargain for a permanent fence.
Mesh Sizes
The mesh is made from weaving parallel wires
to form a diamond pattern. The mesh size
measures the distance between the wires.
For the same gauge wire, the smaller (or
tighter) the mesh, the more steel and strength
and the higher the cost. Pick the mesh size
based on your needs. For example, use a smaller
mesh such as 1-3/4" for tennis courts
to reduce the likelihood of the balls getting
wedged in the mesh.
Protective Coatings
Rust and corrosion are a problem
unless the
fence is properly treated. Most
chain link
fences are coated in zinc (to
galvanized
them). To increase the attractiveness,
some
fencing is available with vinyl
or polyester
color coatings. Aluminum may
also be used,
but this is weaker than steel. |
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