A chain-link fence is a specific type of woven fencing typically constructed from steel wire that has been galvanized or coated with linear low-density polyethylene. The design involves wires running vertically, which are then bent into a zigzag pattern. This pattern allows each “zig” to connect with the wire immediately to one side, and each “zag” to connect with the wire on the other side. This results in the distinctive diamond pattern that is a hallmark of this type of fence.
Chain-link fencing is usually available in rolls of 20 feet (6.1 m) or 50 feet (15 m) in length. These rolls can be connected by “unscrewing” one of the end wires and then “screwing” it back in, creating a hook that joins the two pieces together. The fence can be found in a variety of heights, including increments of one foot from 3 feet (0.91 m) to 8 feet (2.4 m), as well as other heights such as 3 feet 6 inches (1.07 m), 10 feet (3.0 m), and 12 feet (3.7 m). However, virtually any height can be achieved based on the specific needs of the project. The mesh of the fence is commonly made from 9, 11, or 11+1⁄2 wire gauge, and the standard diamond size is 2 inches (5.1 cm), although the mesh length can be adjusted as needed.
For specific applications like tennis courts and ballparks, the preferred height is usually 10 or 12 feet (3.0 or 3.7 m). Tennis courts often utilize a diamond size of 1.75 inches (4.4 cm) to prevent powerful hits from lodging the ball in the fence.
One of the reasons chain-link fences are so popular is due to their cost-effectiveness and the fact that their open weave design does not block sunlight from either side of the fence. The fence can be made semi-opaque by inserting fence inserts into the mesh, or by allowing ivy to grow and intertwine itself within the fence.
The installation process of a chain-link fence involves setting posts into the ground and attaching the fence to them. These posts can be made from steel tubing, timber, or concrete, and can be either driven into the ground or set in concrete. End, corner, or gate posts, often known as “terminal posts”, must be set in concrete footing or otherwise anchored to prevent leaning due to the tension of a stretched fence. The posts set between the terminal posts are referred to as “line posts” and are set at intervals not exceeding 10 feet. The fence is attached at one end, stretched, and then attached at the other end, with any excess easily removed by “unscrewing” a wire. In many cases, a bottom tension wire, sometimes called “coil wire”, is stretched between terminal posts to minimize movement at the bottom of the chain-link mesh between posts. Top horizontal rails are often used on most chain-link fences, although they are not necessary if the terminal posts are braced correctly. A top tension wire may be used in lieu of the top horizontal rails. Bottom rails may be added in place of bottom tension wires, and for taller fences, 10 feet or more, intermediate horizontal rails are often added. The fence is then tied to the line posts and rails using steel or aluminum wire with a hook on one end, known as “fence ties”. The bottom tension wire should be secured to the line posts and the chain-link mesh “hog ringed” to the tension wire 2′ on center.
The process of manufacturing chain-link fencing is referred to as weaving. A metal wire, often galvanized to reduce corrosion, is pulled along a rotating long and flat blade, creating a somewhat flattened spiral. The spiral continues to rotate past the blade and winds its way through the previous spiral that is already part of the fence. When the spiral reaches the far end of the fence, the spiral is cut near the blade. Then, the spiral is pressed flat, and the entire fence is moved up, ready for the next cycle. The end of every second spiral overlaps the end of every first spiral. The machine clamps both ends and gives them a few twists, making the links permanent.
An advanced version of the weaving machine winds two wires around the blade simultaneously to create a double helix. One of the spirals is woven through the last spiral that is already part of the fence. This improvement allows the process to advance twice as fast.
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Read How much does 200 ft of chain link fence cost. Chain Link Fence Cost Calculator: How to Estimate Your Project Expenses Chain link fences are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses…
Read Chain Link Fence Cost Calculator. Know about our chain link fences. How much does 200 ft of chain link fence cost Black chain-link fence cost ranges from $1,630 to $5,770, with an average…
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