Chain link fencing is a type of fence that uses steel wires to create a barrier around an enclosed area. It is typically installed in schools, sports fields, prisons, businesses and homes. It is an affordable and versatile option for enclosing areas of property. It offers a sense of security for people and animals while providing a clear boundary to the property. It is also quick to install compared to other types of fences.
The framework for chain link fencing is made of galvanized or powder coated steel tubing which acts as posts for the wire mesh fabric. The fabric is bent and interlocked into a sturdy and durable fence that can be woven together in various shapes and lengths to create barriers of different sizes. The steel framework and metal fittings of a chain link fence are usually powder coated or galvanized in order to prevent corrosion in the elements.
A typical residential or commercial chain link fence costs about $3.60 to $9.80 per foot of chain link fencing material and is constructed of class 1 or 2A steel wire mesh fabric bent and interlocked into a secure barrier. A class 1 or 2A steel wire is a common choice for residential and commercial chain link fencing due to its durability, longevity, strength and corrosion resistance.
The steel framework is attached to the ground with terminal posts (corner, end and direction change) and intermediate posts (along the length of the fence). For taller fences, brace and truss post are often used as well. In most cases, the installer stretches a bottom tension wire to help minimize the in and out movement of the bottom of the chain link mesh between terminal posts. In addition, top horizontal rails are often used.
Once the horizontal rails are stretched and connected to the terminal posts and hog rings on the tension wire, a come-along is used to stretch the remainder of the chain link. The installer should always ensure that the come-along hook faces away from the fabric or it will get caught in the diamonds of the weave. After the come-along is cranked tight, it is then cut 6-8″ past its bend with bolt cutters (Fig. F52). This is done to avoid ‘whipping’ of the ends of the come-along when it is released.
At this point, the installer may ‘pre-squeeze’ the tension bands and brace bands using fence pliers. This essentially pinches the bands shut and will make threading the fence nut easier later on.
Once the chain link is stretched, a rail end band should be installed on each terminal post, followed by a carriage bolt. This will help to keep the rail in place and prevent it from moving at all. If a terminal post is ‘over-height’ the installer can use a ratchet and socket to’squeeze’ the top of the rail down. This will help to keep the rail in position as it is pulled down and ‘trussed’ by the strut.