Megan Winterland | Published 10:42 AM, March 8, 2021
Whether you want to accommodate pets or children, create privacy for passersby, or provide protection around a swimming pool or garden, chain link fences are one of the most affordable options for enclosed yards. Unlike the ordinary uncoated spiked metal of many years ago, modern chain link fences can be very attractive or almost invisible, and there are multiple options to customize and add privacy features. The design of the chain link is durable, so it can withstand wind, weather and shocks. Compared with other options for enclosed yards, the cost of chain link fences is relatively low, and depending on the space, it can even be installed by the homeowner.
There are many variables in the chain link pricing structure, including height and specifications, linear footage, pillars, doors, and additional decorations and functions. Although this is an affordable option, there are many decisions that the homeowner needs to make, which affects the overall cost.
In order to calculate the cost of a chain link, you need to measure and make some choices. The math is simple-the decision may not be!
The chain link fence is composed of several elements. There are two types of fence posts: corner posts are deeply planted in every corner to provide shape and stability. Between the corner posts are line posts, which are thinner than the corner posts, and increase support for the fence at 8 to 10 feet intervals. These uprights are connected by a solid top rail sleeve, which passes through the top of the side rails and is fixed to each corner post. A mesh made of recognizable diamond-shaped wire twists is fixed on the top rail with a cable tie. Finally, a certain length of tension wire is used to tighten the grid, and the tension wire is connected to a tension rod that passes through the grid next to the corner post. The size and height of the fence will affect the cost of each material, so careful measurement and selection of the required height will help you formulate an accurate budget.
Chain link fences seem to be an easy choice-many consumers think there is only one style, but in fact it is not the case. Changes in height, specifications, finish, and other factors can produce different levels of safety and very different appearances. This leaves a lot of room for creativity and cost savings; every decision can be made while balancing appearance, purpose, and budget, until all three meet the buyer's needs.
Although the linear footage of the enclosed area has the greatest impact on the total cost, the height and overall size also affect the cost. The height of chain link fences varies from 3 feet to 12 feet, but very high fences are less common. Taller fences are more expensive, while custom sizes (joining two pieces of chain links together to achieve a specific height) cost more. The size and shape of the fence can also affect pricing: the price of large fences can sometimes be lowered based on the bulk pricing of the supply, but custom-shaped fences around small areas can incur unexpectedly high costs because they require more jobs and labor.
The gauge measurement represents the thickness of the wire that creates the chain link fence net, and it can be confusing because the numbers are the opposite of the gauge-a lower number equals a thicker wire. The gauge ranges from 6 gauge (the thickest chain link fence, usually used in commercial applications) to 11.5 gauge, which is a lighter and thinner wire that is more suitable for residential installations. Thicker meters are stronger and stronger and therefore more costly, while taller meters provide lighter, less visible fences and are cheaper.
Most of the appeal of chain link fences comes from the simple but still decorative diamond pattern formed by stranded wires. Measured on the inside of the diamond along two diagonal directions, the most common diamond sizes are 1 inch, 2 inches, and 3.5 inches by 5 inches. Smaller diamonds will produce stronger fences. Regardless of the size, these fences are more expensive because they require more wires to twist to make the fence. Larger diamonds are less secure, but also cheaper; reducing the mesh size from 2 inches to 1 inch can more than double the price of the mesh. It is important to check local permit requirements before choosing a diamond size: some security fence permits require specific diamond sizes to ensure safety, such as fences used to enclose swimming pools or livestock.
Most commonly, the posts of chain link fences are also made of metal, but some wood, vinyl, and concrete posts can also be used. The column itself must be set at least 2 feet below the ground, preferably in concrete to maintain stability. The price of the metal column ranges from US$7.25 to US$30, depending on the height, thickness, type and size of the metal. Adding color will increase the cost. Wooden posts have a more natural appearance, but they are not as strong or durable, and prices range from $10 to $50. Throughout the project, the average total cost of the column was $3 per linear foot, including the cost of the column itself and the cost of the concrete needed to secure the column.
Walkway doors may seem unnecessary luxury, but they can be useful when moving materials in and out of the yard, receiving guests, or performing beautification tasks such as mowing the lawn. In addition, the carefully selected gates add great containment appeal to the family. A simple revolving door can cost between US$100 and US$450 (including labor), depending on the height and level of the decorative elements, and also requires hardware to latch or lock the door. Double swing doors allow a larger opening in the fence, and prices range from $183 to $295.
Enclosing the entire front yard can increase a great sense of security, but the entire courtyard wall needs to allow vehicles to enter the driveway. This can sometimes be achieved with double swing doors, but single or double rolling doors will be more effective, more effective, and stronger. The price range of rolling gates is wide, depending on the width and height, but also on the mechanism used to open and close them: wider gates require more wheels, while heavy gates may require electric openers. Based on these factors, the cost of the lane gate can range from US$800 to US$7,600.
Privacy slats are strips of colored materials that can be woven through the openings of the chain link fence to provide privacy and add color or style to the fence. They are available in plastic or wood. They can be installed at the same time as the fence, or they can be added later as a DIY project to save labor costs. The cost per box of slats is approximately US$4 to US$50. If installed by a contractor, the installation cost per linear foot may increase by US$2 to US$4. Other privacy options include climbing vines and fabric screens that can be attached to the fence. Homeowners who like the low cost of the chain link fence but don't care about the convenience of the appearance can even build wooden boards to connect to the block chain fence from view.
When choosing galvanized or bare metal chain link fences, powder coating can prevent rust and corrosion, increase the service life of the fence and reduce maintenance time and costs. In addition, powder coating adds an attractive textured matte finish, which can enhance the containment appeal of the fence. It is estimated that an additional $6 to $8 per linear foot will be required for powder coating.
Powder coating is not a DIY job, but homeowners who want to protect the fence and add color can paint the fence themselves. However, this is not a quick, easy or cheap job. Apply an oil-based primer first, and then apply several coats of exterior wall paint on both sides of the fence. The average price of consumables is about $55. The average cost of having someone else do the work for you is about $7 per linear foot.
So far, the calculation of the cost of the chain link privacy fence is mainly based on the choice of the homeowner. However, there are additional costs that are beyond the control of the homeowner. The current condition of the yard will dictate many of these costs, and while there is some scope for reducing them by doing the work on their own, others will need professional help or be enforced by local regulations.
Before installing a new fence, the old fence must be completely removed. This will cost an average of $3 to $5 per linear foot. This work can be done by a prudent homeowner to save labor costs, but it is important to remember that the chain can be heavy and unwieldy. A cost benefit? You can usually find a recycling company to transport these materials away for free recycling—maybe even pay you for the waste by weight! The salvage value may exceed the removal cost.
The national average for installing pillars and nets is between 7 and 15 dollars per linear foot. The scope is wide, which means that obtaining multiple estimates is key. If you choose to install the fence yourself, there is no labor cost, unless you need to rent a digger or other special tools. Some homeowners choose to hire professionals to set up the columns, and then install the fences themselves, thereby saving labor costs.
For the chain link fence to work properly as a fence, it must always be set on the ground. This means that the land must be level and free of shrubs, trees and roots. Depending on the obstacles, this may greatly increase the cost of the project. The cost of landscaping and tree removal can be negotiated, but it may increase the cost of the fence by US$5,500, and when working around existing structures (such as sheds or trees), it may increase by US$2 to US$5 per linear foot. Grading a sloping yard to level will add $5 to $10 per square foot.
Chain link fences are essentially tied to other metals with metal, so in addition to grids, top rails, and uprights, you also need materials to connect them together. Every two sections of top rail that need to be connected will require a top rail sleeve. For each column, purchase a ring cap to fix the top rail and a column cap. Each corner post requires a tie rod, a rail end, a support strap, and a carriage bolt to fix the rail to the post and stretch the grid. Gates also needs a lever. Stretching the bottom of the screen requires a tension wire with a length equal to the linear footage. Finally, buy a fence tie for each straight foot, fix the grid to the top railing, and choose the hardware to close and lock the gate. The cost of this hardware will not vary by style, but will increase with the length of the fence.
Some municipalities require fence permits to ensure that they comply with the laws and regulations of the area. The permit will determine many factors in the installation of the chain link fence, including the distance between the fence and the property line, the height of the fence (the front yard and the back yard may be different), and how deep the pillars must be. This is not an opportunity to try to squeak without permission: the cost of removing a fence installed too close to three inches from the property line will be huge, and then you have to decide whether to reinstall it.
Chain link fences are both efficient and economical, but there are many options in terms of use and appearance. The type of grid is usually selected according to the application you plan, the style and location of your home, because some climates do require a protective coating on the metal. Consider these options when planning your project.
The galvanized chain link fence has been treated to prevent rust and corrosion. It is durable, sturdy, and somewhat practical in appearance, which is the standard for commercial applications. The cost of this style is between 5 and 15 dollars per linear foot, depending on the height.
This type of chain link fence has a layer of PVC mesh coating on the metal to protect the fence from salt water corrosion. It is usually used in coastal areas where flooding is frequent to extend the life of the fence and allow water to flow freely. It will be damaged. The cost of a cyclone fence is between $8 and $40 per linear foot, depending on the size and height.
Vinyl-covered chain link fences, usually black and green (and occasionally other colors), can add an elegant appearance to the fence and protect the metal from corrosion. Vinyl significantly increases costs, ranging from $13 to $40 per linear foot, but it reduces maintenance time and costs.
There is no law that requires you to use metal posts on chain fences. Other materials, such as wooden posts (which look beautiful and rustic with black chain links) or other metals, such as wrought iron, steel or aluminum, can be combined with chain links to form unique art installations. However, these come at a price: pricing will vary depending on the material and what you choose to use them for, but they can add up to $100 per linear foot.
Whether you are considering installing fences for commercial fences, protecting HVAC equipment, or enclosing your yard, chain links are a practical choice that can provide a variety of customization options at a relatively economical cost. However, this kind of fence has many specific benefits, but it may not be so obvious.
For some home buyers, safety is everything, and a well-maintained and attractive chain-link fence can meet their needs and increase the value of the house exponentially. Others, especially buyers with children or pets, may be more interested in effectively keeping residents in the enclosure: chain links are considered the best type of enclosure for pets, and they provide a great opportunity for children playing outdoors. Layer security. In homes with swimming pools, the fence surrounding the swimming pool provides additional security to prevent accidents for which the homeowner is responsible. Knowing that fence installation will not be one of their top priorities, because homeowners can increase the value of these buyers in any area, which makes them feel relieved.
Chain fences are not easy for humans to climb. It provides a visual challenge that is usually sufficient to stop intruders from even trying to enter, and if high enough, if they try to enter, it will prevent them from entering, protecting your home and belongings.
Most chain link fences are treated or coated to prevent rust and corrosion and only need to be sprayed once in a while. Even if rust does appear, a quick tap with a wire brush and some sealant can solve the problem. All connections and joints are visible, so if damage does occur, it is simple to reconnect the grid to the column or railing, and even a piece of the grid can be replaced seamlessly without removing the rest. The biggest maintenance task may be to remove vines trying to climb the link.
When choosing a chain link fence, there are many styles and functions to choose from. The precise combination of grid and pillar materials, specifications, diamond sizes, and privacy elements, as well as the style of the door and pillar caps, means that your fence will be uniquely customized to your specifications.
The chain installation is not complicated. If the homeowner has expertise and the level of the yard is quite high, then it can be a DIY project. When hiring professionals, this is a quick job: once the landscape is cleared, most workers will need one day to set up the pillars, and another day or two to hang up the fence. For those with tight budgets and tight schedules, chains are an ideal choice.
Even the basic galvanized chain links can resist various elements very well. Due to the open weaving of the mesh, the chain link fence will not block the wind like a solid fence, so it is suitable for high wind conditions. Water can smoothly pass through the mesh without damaging the fence, making the chain very suitable for flooding places. A properly installed chain link fence can withstand more than 25 years, even in places where weather tests are regularly performed.
Among all the fence options available to homeowners, chain link fences are most suitable for DIY-inclined people. Very few ultra-precise measurements or special skills are required: once the homeowner has properly studied the process and options and obtained the materials, the next step is to dig and set up the columns, install and tension the top rails, and then stretch and tie them to the grid And any privacy elements. However, things to keep in mind include professional tools that make the job manageable-those who dig in rocks or dense clay will benefit from gas-powered pile hole augers, which incur rental costs, as well as wire cutters, pipe cutters And if the homeowner does not already own a fence stretcher, it will increase the DIY cost. For those who have no experience in assessing the consistency of concrete, it may be difficult to mix concrete to fix the poles. Finally, the weight and bulky nature of a roll of barbed wire may be beyond the capacity of some homeowners.
Professional staff can easily complete the chain link fence in just a few days: these teams already have the tools and expertise to solve unexpected obstacles, such as uneven ground, stubborn tree roots, and tangled fences. They are unlikely to set up fence posts at precise levels, cut themselves on exposed wires, or struggle with tension bands that cannot be secured. The discounts that contractors receive on materials, coupled with savings in delivery, tool rental, and time, may make hiring professionals financially worthwhile.
If you plan to DIY and find yourself at a loss, don't be afraid to hire a professional. Many contractors will be happy to adapt to your work and take over where you left off. You can search for "fence installation near me" to find professionals to work with.
Compared with other types of fences, chain links are considered the most economical. In other words, you can take a variety of measures to reduce overall costs.
Installing a chain link fence is a fairly clear process, but as always, when hiring a contractor to work on your property, you need to make sure you know your requirements and what you have. Don't be afraid to request documents or view samples. Since the cost of chain link fences varies by height and material, it is important to obtain multiple estimates. Some contractors may only use a limited set of materials. If you are looking for something different, you should not be satisfied with the materials provided by any professional. Some questions you should answer include:
After all these considerations, you may be at a loss. The following are some of the questions that homeowners often encounter when considering their fences and their answers, which should make the decision a little easier.
On average, yes. Of course, it depends on the option you choose: tall, heavy-duty chain-link fences are more expensive than short simple wooden fences. But when comparing size and quality, chain link fences cost 5 to 15 dollars per linear square foot less than wood.
The chain link fence installed by the homeowner is the cheapest option for a complete fence.
The chain link fence is basically maintenance-free. You may want to clean it with hose spray from time to time. If it is particularly dirty, you can add soap, but most of the chain links will maintain themselves. Watch out for damage or sagging, because if the problem is dealt with in time, simple and inexpensive repairs can be made. If you choose to paint the fence, maintenance will include repainting every few years or when the paint starts to wear out.
It depends on the purpose of the fence. The height is usually restricted by local laws. If a fence encloses a swimming pool, state and local governments may require it. Basic safety and pet fences require a 4-foot fence, while large pets or additional privacy may make a 6-foot fence more suitable (dogs are unexpectedly good at climbing fences, so please consider the adult size family of any puppies in your house. When selecting height).
Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide publishers with a way to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliate sites.
You agree that BobVila.com can process your data in the manner described in our privacy policy.
Copyright © 2021 Acton Media Inc. all rights reserved.