Chain link fencing is popular for multiple locations. It can provide an added level of security, protect children and pets, and its one of the most affordable options available. It’s equally applicable for residential, commercial and industrial uses. The disadvantage is that it will rust if a vinyl coating isn’t applied.

Chain link fences are constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum with a zinc coating to make it last longer. Galvanized steel takes a long time to rust, but it will. Aluminum won’t rust, but it does corrode. Chain link fencing typically lasts 20 to 30 years and individuals will want it to retain its appearance for as long as possible.

A vinyl coating for chain link fencing typically comes with a 10-to-15-year warranty against fading, peeling and chipping. The coating is either plastic or a synthetic resin and the smaller the gauge of wire used, the stronger the fence will be. However, eventually the metal will begin to deteriorate. A coating is effective for delaying that process, easy to maintain, and it’s relatively inexpensive.

Without a vinyl coating, individuals will need to periodically clean their fence with a good stiff brush to remove rust that appears. It also requires the time-consuming task of inspecting the fence for rust and corrosion.

Vinyl coatings are available in black, brown, green and white to accommodate a range of aesthetic concerns. A black vinyl coating gives the fencing a softer appearance and tends to blend with plantings. A green coating also blends with foliage, but it is typically more obvious than black.

White vinyl coatings evoke a clinical sense, but can be effective in certain types of landscapes. A brown coating tends to complement multiple settings and is a color that’s popular for individuals that practice Feng Shui in their natural environment.

Some domestic animals have a penchant for climbing and it can be extremely difficult to keep them safely within bounds. However, pets aren’t the only animals that individuals have to worry about. A range of wildlife can, and will, climb a fence to get to something they want. That includes alligators, bears, bobcats, coyotes, opossums, raccoons and skunks.

The solution to keeping wild animals out of yards, gardens and away from backyard chickens is a fence of at least 6 ft. tall. Chain link works best, but the spacing in the mesh must be small enough to prevent smaller animals from simply squeezing through.

At the top of the fence will be an extension that bends 90 degrees toward the outside of the fence. Wildlife may attempt to climb the fence, but when they reach the 90-degree angle they’re unable to make the physical “flip” necessary to push themselves up and over.

Rollers can also be placed at the top. The rollers prevent an animal from gaining purchase to pull themselves up. They spin, deny the animal traction, and dumps them back on the ground. Installing rollers can be a bit expensive, but they have an attractive appearance. They’re highly effective and provide a non-lethal way of dealing with unwanted wildlife. They’re commonly called coyote rollers.

One area that people typically forget when establishing a no-climb fence is the gate. Wild animals can be far cleverer than people think. They can learn to manipulate latches and closures on fence gates. It’s equally important to ensure that there are no gaps between the gate and fence where animals can wiggle through.

Florida is home to a wealth of wildlife and many species have learned to co-exist in urban environments. Many view dogs, cats and backyard chickens as an easy food source. No-climb fences provide an effective barrier against many species of wildlife, while providing a safe space for pets to play.

Pets are wholesome creatures in this world, as many consider them to have a significant role in one’s life. Pets such as dogs, cats or birds, etc. require their zone too where they can move freely apart from having their time with the owner.

For dogs, there is dog-proof fencing which gives access to them where they get a certain zone and they are not able to escape. As such creatures are free and they love to run whenever they get an opportunity to do it, dog-proof fencing fills the void gap of allowing the owner to be at peace rather than worrying about its dog pet.

Dos and Don’ts of Dog-proof fencing

There are certain aspects when it comes to selecting a fence. The following blog includes the dos and don’ts when choosing a dog-proof fence.

Fence’s material

The quality material of the fence matters a lot as it is the main lead when it comes to strength.

Don’ts: Choosing a low-quality material fence such as plastic which can be destroyed easily by the pet.

Dos: Choosing high-quality aluminum fences which can resist animals invading it or barreling into them.

As such creatures are full of energy and they are ready to run anywhere whenever they get the opportunity to leap, they never leave a chance to avail themselves of it.

Height of the fence 

The height of a fence provides the maximum or minimum probability of crossing over it if one wants to cross the fence through illegal means.

Don’ts: Choosing a short heightened fence that can be crossed over by the pet easily.

Dos: Choosing such a fence following the pet’s height but taller than the pet.

Huskies can easily leap over a 4-foot-high fence. In such a case, at least 5 feet high fence is preferable.

Distinguishing the Boundary lines 

Boundary lines are essential when it comes to installing fences and boundaries offer a great deal of representing fences whenever some matter occurs.

Don’ts: Installing the fence in a very compressed area where the dog is not being able to move.

Dos: Installing the fence following the property’s limit where the pet gets a wide range of areas where it can play with itself.

By doing such a thing, the dog can run as much as it wants and have its area at least where it can play.

Maintenance 

It is a fact that everything you claim needs maintenance. Without maintenance, the quality of certain objects fades away.

Don’ts: Keeping the fence dirty and never analyzing or short-checking the fence once a month.

Dos: Keeping an eye on the fence once a week by observing its shortcomings or lacking and fulfilling the lacking’s gap.

Maintenance of fences can offer a great deal of more secureness and safety, especially for the pet living inside the fence. Not just to the settlement of the pet but also when it is playing inside the fence or if it tries to go out of the fence.  

Erecting a fence is a major project that can be extremely expensive. Individuals need to balance the vision they have of the “perfect” fence with budgetary concerns. Other people simply make their fencing selection based on price alone. Multiple elements affect the cost of a fence encompassing the material and height, along with the slope of the land, the type of soil, installation and permits, and gates. That doesn’t include installation costs.

Chain Link

Chain link fencing is by far the least expensive at $5 to $20 per foot, depending on the height.  It’s commonly used for security and safety purposes, keeping children and pets contained, and preventing the entry of human and wildlife intruders. It’s easy and quick to install.

PVC

A PVC fence will run between $15.50 to $18.50 per linear foot. It’s available in a myriad of colors and more than 30 decorative styles. It’s able to withstand high winds and has earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification. PVC is highly durable and won’t split, crack, peel, splinter, warp or rot. It’s a good option for privacy, keeping children and pets within bounds, and preventing entry by intruders and wildlife. It can emulate the appearance of stone or wood.

Aluminum

The cost of aluminum fencing is approximately $22 per linear foot. It’s highly decorative, available in multiple styles and colors, and can be topped with spikes for an additional level of security. It’s low maintenance and has a stately, elegant appearance.

Wood

A wood fence is on the high end of the price scale and will cost between $17 to $45 per linear foot, depending on the type of wood that’s used. It can be installed horizontally or vertically and is a popular choice for privacy.

SimTek®

The material can run anywhere between $70 and $90 per linear foot. It has a 25 year/lifetime warranty. The fencing is highly durable and is available in styles that emulates the look and texture of real wood and stone. SimTek® is offered in multiple colors and it’s fade resistant. The high-impact material absorbs sound, is graffiti resistant and eco-friendly. It’s popular for privacy and security purposes, buffers sound, and can withstand hurricane force winds and ocean spray.

The installation of chain link fencing is the preferred method of corralling rambunctious canines whether it’s in the back yard or at the local dog park. There are multiple benefits to chain link fencing for pet enclosures that aren’t available with other options.

Safety

The pattern in chain link fencing provides pet parents with safety and security for their dog. Available in multiple heights, it’s a deterrent to canines that try to jump and can be installed with preventative measures for those that try to burrow. It’s effective for keeping out unwanted wildlife. Fencing can be installed with child-proof latches and self-closing springs for another level of safety.

Puppies like to explore and a very real danger is that a puppy will try to climb between the rails of traditional fencing and get stuck or actually make it through to the other side. The same is true of smaller dogs. Chain link fencing has a close-knit pattern too small for puppies or small dogs to wiggle through.

Cost

Expense is a major consideration for homeowners or communities that want to create a dog park for residents. Chain link fencing is highly cost-effective. A vinyl coating can be applied in multiple colors to coordinate with surroundings and it’s an easy matter to attach relevant signage for the public spaces to make individuals aware of pertinent rules.

Durability

The average chain link fence will last up to 15 years and choosing a smaller gauge wire can increase the strength. It’s also quick and easy for professional installers to erect, meaning the amenity can be offered to residents in fairly little time or homeowners can allow their canines to begin exploring their own backyard unfettered.

Easy Maintenance

Chain link fencing requires very little in the way of maintenance. If a section of fencing becomes damaged, it’s a simple matter to repair it or to replace the damaged portion.

Chain link fences are a staple as a security option, but they may not fit the aesthetic of a neighborhood or the prevailing architectural style. However, there are ways to dress up a chain-link fence to make it more appealing and enhance privacy. The methods are more affordable than installing a new fence, but they’re not nearly as pretty and don’t afford the same level of privacy.

Slats

One of the easiest solutions is the installation of slats – sometimes called tube slats – specifically designed for chain link fences. They’re offered in a rainbow of colors and a couple of different styles. The slats improve privacy by about 75 percent, but don’t create a solid barrier. Small spaces between the slats will remain.

Plants

Individuals can plant vines and allow them to twine among the spaces in the fence. Flowering vines add beauty, but it will take time for the plants to accomplish their goal. Vines won’t eliminate small areas where people could peer in. The same problem exists when installing bushes and shrubs. The plantings will require time to mature, but they offer better coverage for privacy than vines.

Rolled Bamboo

Rolls of bamboo fencing/screens can be purchased and wired directly to the fence. It’s not particularly pretty, but it will elevate the level of privacy by approximately 85 percent.

Mesh Screen

These have the advantage of being wind and water permeable. They’re not necessarily the most attractive option, but privacy can be improved by 80-96 percent, depending on the density of the mesh. It’s available in different colors.

Wood Panels

There are wood panels that can be attached directly to chain link that will create a beautiful facade and provide privacy. However, permits may be required as it may be classified as an entirely new fence installation by local municipalities.

Canvas Fabric

The least aesthetically pleasing option, some individuals simply wire canvas fabric to their chain link fence. It’s available in multiple colors and will solve the problem of privacy, but it’s far from a pretty solution.

Homeowners have multiple material choices for their fencing. You can choose from metal, PVC, wood, vinyl, composite, SimTek®, and masonry styles with a wealth of design options within each material type. There are pros and cons for each type and you can use the following tips for selecting the fencing materials that best fits your individual needs.

Building Codes and HOAs

Communities often have their own set of building codes about the type, style, color, materials, and height of the fencing that can be erected. If your area has a homeowners association (HOA) your options may be limited to what the HOA allows.

Cost

Fencing and the installation can represent a significant expense and you’ll need to know how much you can or are willing to spend. You may need to budget more to the project or seek a more cost-effective alternative, depending upon what you envision for your property.

Durability

The predations of insect pests, mold, and degradation from wind, rain, sun, and salt spray are very real considerations. The ability of your fence to withstand those elements and the unique climate will also be a consideration for the long-term durability of the fencing you choose.

Maintenance

Some types of fencing require regular inspections and periodic maintenance, while others are almost maintenance-free. Some may need to be painted, stained or sealed. An additional consideration in Florida is hurricanes and the associated damage they can sustain or inflict. Some types of fencing are able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Objective

It’s important to know why you want a fence. They can be used for beautification, safety and security, to contain children or pets, minimizing road-noise, or to establish boundaries. The reason you want a fence will influence the material that’s selected.

Style

You may want a fence that blends into the surrounding architecture and prevailing styles or you may want something that’s a marked departure that makes your home stand out. You can choose from highly elaborate styles or no-frills options, but you should always research any relevant codes and regulations before making a decision.

From time immemorial, fences have been erected for protection. The barriers have expanded from use for personal safety to those designed to protect the public in parks, at construction sites, public pools, schools, and even penitentiaries.

The rise in terrorist attacks have also led to federal regulations that require fencing at sites ranging from water filtration plants to food processing facilities, along with mass transportation hubs, chemical facilities, power plants, and oil-related industries. The regulations are designed to protect the public from terrorist activity affecting food, water, utilities, and natural resources.

For facilities that come under federal regulations for safety, chain link fencing is recommended. It’s available in multiple heights, can be installed quickly, and can be topped with barbed wire or even razor wire for additional security.

Chain link is also economical for industrial and construction sites to prevent entry to locations that pose a serious danger. They’re low maintenance options to secure a perimeter and chain link fencing can be equipped with multiple types of gates, locking mechanisms, and high-tech access features.

In cities where a combination of beauty and functionality is desired, aluminum fencing with the appearance and aesthetic appeal of wrought iron is often utilized. It’s effective for directing foot traffic in parks and blocking access to waterways within those areas. Aluminum is also beneficial at venues where special entertainments are being held. It has the advantages of elegance, durability, and multiple styles and color choices.

PVC fencing is an alternative for public spaces that’s able to withstand severe winds and is available in multiple heights and colors. It’s low maintenance and is unaffected by UV rays or weather for a long-lasting solution.

An area of fencing for protecting the public that few people think about is that used in zoos, animal parks, and rescue organizations for dangerous, endangered, and exotic wildlife. Animal fencing must be designed and installed to exacting specifications and it’s just one area in which Zepco Fence specializes.

Since the process for creating chain link fence was introduced in 1844 by Charles Barnard, the fencing type has remained one of the most effective and economical option for multiple uses. The fencing was based on the cloth weaving process and it was brought to the U.S. in 1891.

Chain link fencing quickly caught on and became popular for providing safety and security for parks and the estates of the wealthy and powerful. It became the preferred backstop method in baseball fields, catch fences at early car racetracks, and even for cage matches in wrestling.

Industrial sites, housing projects and commercial enterprises use chain link fence due to its affordability and versatility. The Department of Homeland Security recommends chain link fencing for the protection of soft targets and those that may be at increased risk of attacks. In high security areas, chain link fencing can be equipped with barbed wire or razor wire.

The fencing is strong, durable, resistant to corrosion, and offers a convenient see-through barricade. Chain link provides an imposing physical barrier and a psychological deterrent to would-be intruders. It’s cost effective to purchase, install, and can reduce the number of guards needed to protect a facility.

It’s an ideal solution for those that have small children and pets. It provides an added level of safety for parents at home and for those operating daycare centers. Chain link is used by animal breeders, animal shelters and in solutions designed specifically for zoos.

Chain link fencing isn’t just for permanent installation. It’s widely used for temporary protection of construction sites where valuable equipment and tools are kept. The fencing utilizes steel posts that can be easily removed from the ground at the end of a project and the distinctive diamond-patterned fencing can simply be rolled up and used in a different location if desired.

It’s available in multiple colors, styles, heights, and thicknesses. The fencing is able to withstand exposure to extremes of weather and coating can be applied to extend its lifespan even further. Chain link fencing is easy to repair if damage does occur and will serve its purpose for many years with only a minimum of maintenance, making it one of the most cost effective options available.