Vilo Fence Chain Link Fence Installation
The Ultimate Guide to Chain Link Fences: Durability, Versatility, and Security Solutions
A chain link fence, known by various names such as wire netting, wire-mesh fence, chain-wire fence, cyclone fence, hurricane fence, or diamond-mesh fence, is a widely popular and incredibly versatile fencing solution. Characterized by its distinctive zigzag pattern, formed by interlocking steel wires, this fence type offers a balance of security, visibility, and cost-effectiveness that makes it a top choice for a myriad of applications. Whether you’re securing a residential backyard, a commercial property, or a high-security industrial site, understanding the intricacies of chain link fencing is key to making an informed decision.
What is a Chain Link Fence?
At its core, a chain link fence is a woven fence predominantly manufactured from steel wire. The unique diamond pattern, from which it derives its name, is created by wires running vertically and bending into a zigzag shape. Each “zig” hooks into the wire on one side, and each “zag” hooks into the wire on the other, forming a continuous, flexible mesh. This woven construction provides both strength and an open design that allows for clear visibility, a significant advantage over solid fencing materials.
Benefits of Chain Link Fencing
Chain link fences are an affordable, lightweight, and flexible fencing type, that can be outfitted with a variety of features or designs that make it the perfect choice for so many different applications. Businesses, utilities, and even many homes rely on chain link fencing to provide the proper division and security needed for peace of mind. The team at Vilo Fence provides Tampa chain link fence installation and constructionservices that are aligned with exactly what our customers need.
We Offer All of the Following Types of Chain Link Fencing:
- Standard chain link fencing: Typically 72 inches in height, erected using posts dug either 18 or 24 inches into the ground and secured with concrete.
- Wind-screened chain link fencing: Chain link fencing with a vinyl wind screen attached along one side, typically the outside, for added privacy and security. These wind screens can be printed with your logo, allowing your fence to double as important signage for your business or establishment.
- Temporary fencing: Similar to standard 72” fencing, only installed without pouring concrete to secure the posts. The perfect solution for fencing that will need to stand for months or years at a time, but will eventually need to be removed. Vilo Fence offers temporary fencing on lease terms starting at one year, and temporary fencing can be affixed with screens printed with your logo.
- Standalone temporary fencing: Fencing that is secured with metal panels that are weighed down with sandbags. Ideal for short-term projects or events. Can be affixed with privacy screens. Vilo Fence offers temporary fence leasing starting at one year.
Get more information about our great chain link fence products in Tampa by calling Vilo Fence at (813) 443-0771 today.
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Unraveling the Materials and Construction of Chain Link Fences
The robust nature and longevity of chain link fences stem directly from their high-quality materials and precise manufacturing process. This fencing system, known for its durability and versatility, is a testament to smart engineering. From the base wire that forms the mesh to the supportive framework and crucial fittings, every component plays an integral role in the fence’s overall performance, security, and lifespan.
Core Materials and Protective Coatings: The First Line of Defense
The foundation of any chain link fence is its steel wire, a material chosen specifically for its exceptional strength and resilience against physical impact. However, raw steel is vulnerable to the elements. To combat the pervasive threat of corrosion and environmental degradation, this steel wire undergoes a variety of sophisticated protective treatments.
- Galvanization: The most common and economical method involves coating the steel wire with a protective layer of zinc. This proven process, known as galvanization, provides superior protection against rust, rain, snow, and frost. It creates a sacrificial barrier that corrodes before the steel, ensuring years of maintenance-free performance. Two primary galvanization methods are used:
- Galvanized Before Weaving (GBW): The individual wires are pre-galvanized before being woven into the chain link fabric. While effective and cost-efficient, the weaving process can create cut ends where the wires are twisted, which may be more prone to minor rust over time, especially in consistently wet conditions.
- Galvanized After Weaving (GAW): The chain link fabric is formed first from untreated steel wire, and then the entire woven section is fully submerged in a molten zinc bath. This method ensures that all surfaces, including the cut ends and twisted links, are thoroughly and seamlessly coated, offering enhanced, comprehensive protection against corrosion.
- Polymer Coatings (LLDPE/PVC): For an extra layer of protection and significant aesthetic appeal, galvanized steel wires can be coated with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These durable polymer coatings completely seal the wire from oxygen and moisture, effectively preventing corrosion. Furthermore, they offer excellent UV stability to resist fading from sunlight and come in a wide array of colors, including green, black, brown, white, and red. This allows the fence to either blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings or stand out as a deliberate design element.
- Aluminized Coating: This high-performance finish involves passing the cleaned steel wire through a molten bath of aluminum, which bonds metallurgically to the steel. Aluminized chain link fabric offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly in industrial or salt-laden coastal environments. It is frequently specified for commercial, industrial, and institutional applications, including government projects like prisons, highways, docks, and airports, due to its exceptional longevity and durability.
- Galfan® Coatings: As an advanced alternative, Galfan is a high-grade zinc-aluminum alloy coating (typically 95% zinc, 5% aluminum). This specialized alloy provides corrosion resistance that is demonstrably superior to standard galvanization, offering two to three times the protection of traditional zinc coatings of the same thickness.
The Weaving Process: From Wire to Woven Fabric
The manufacturing process that transforms individual wires into a flexible, strong mesh is often referred to as weaving, and it is a marvel of mechanical precision. The process can be broken down into key stages:
- Spiral Formation: A metal wire is fed into the machine and pulled along a long, rotating blade. This action forces the wire into a continuous, flattened spiral shape.
- Interlocking Weave: This newly formed spiral then precisely winds through the previous spiral. This interlocking action is what forms the characteristic diamond-shaped pattern of the fence fabric.
- Continuous Mesh Creation: This process of spiraling and intertwining repeats continuously, creating a robust and flexible mesh of a specified height and length. The tension and angle are carefully controlled to ensure a uniform diamond size and a structurally sound fabric.
- Finishing the Edges (Knuckling or Twisting): Once the desired height is reached, the ends of the wires at the top and bottom of the fence are finished. They can be bent over into a loop (knuckled) for a smooth, safe edge, or twisted together into a barbed point (twisted) for higher security.
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Effective Chain Link Fencing Features
Chain link fencing can come in a variety of heights to give you the level of protection you want. However, these fences have other key features as well.
Additional Features of Chain Link Fences, Include:
- They come in a range of gauges, ranging from residential fencing all the way up to industrial—the heaviest gauge you can buy.
- They also come in a range of colors to give it a more refined and palatable look in areas where aesthetics are more important.
At Vilo Fence, our chain link fences in Tampa are available in both black and dark green finishes as well as your traditional galvanized metallic finish. We can also add vinyl slats to any chain link fence for an added degree of privacy and to make climbing considerably more difficult.
How Much Does a Chain Link
Fence Cost?
Chain link fences are a popular choice due to their affordability. However, the exact cost of installation can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the fence, which includes the height and length of the fencing, as well as what gauge is selected. Additionally, the complexity of your yard or the terrain, the materials used, and finish you select for your fencing can also impact the cost.
To find out more about chain link fencing in Tampa and if it’s a right choice for your property, contact the team at Vilo Fence.
Contact Vilo Fence today to request an appointment for chain link fence installation in Tampa, FL.
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“I called to get an estimate and I was assisted right away. They removed an old fence and had the new one installed in 1.5 days.”
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Barbed Wire Chain Link Fencing
While chain link fencing is a popular and effective barrier for keeping people out, it does have an inherent weakness: the weave of metal wire creates effective footholds that make them easy to climb. For this reason, any area where security is truly a high priority should be secured with a chain link fence topped with barbed wire. Barbed wire is a true deterrent that will almost certainly make any potential intruders think twice before scaling your fence. While barbed wire has a reputation, it is widely used in a variety of applications. For example, airports use them as an added layer of security around outdoor barriers, and utility companies will use them to secure ultra-important public utility infrastructure that could be dangerous.
At Vilo Fence in Tampa, we can install barbed wire along your new fence to give you the ultra-high level of security you need for true peace of mind that your protected area remains safe.
Contact Vilo Fence at (813) 443-0771 for more information about installing a chain link fence on your Tampa property!
Essential Components for a Complete System
Beyond the fabric, a complete chain link fence system comprises several critical components that ensure stability, tension, and functionality:
Chain Link Fabric (Mesh)
The woven steel wire forming the main barrier.
Fence Posts
These vertical supports anchor the fence.
Terminal Posts
Thicker and set deeper in concrete, these include end posts, corner posts, and gate posts. They bear the significant tension of the stretched fabric.
Line Posts
Intermediate posts placed at regular intervals (typically 8 to 10 feet apart) along the fence line, providing support to the fabric and maintaining the fence’s linearity.
Top Rail
A horizontal steel tube that connects the terminal posts and runs along the top of the fence, providing crucial support and rigidity to the fabric.
Bottom Rail or Tension Wire
Depending on the design, a horizontal bottom rail or a more cost-effective tension wire runs along the base, keeping the fabric taut and close to the ground.
Tension Bar
A flat bar woven in and out of the mesh’s diamond pattern, used to hold the fabric in place and apply tension to it, securing it to the terminal post.
Tension Bands
These fittings hold the tension bar in place, ensuring the fence remains taut. They fit between brace bands.
Brace Bands (Rail End Bands)
Used to attach the top rail to terminal posts.
Post Caps
Placed on top of posts to prevent moisture and debris from entering, thereby extending the post’s lifespan. Terminal post caps are often dome-shaped, while line post caps have a loop to accommodate the top rail.
Rail End
A component that terminates into a cup or clamp, typically fastened to a brace band, connecting the top rail to a post.
Fence Ties (Wire Ties)
Small wires used to securely attach the chain link fabric to the top rail and line posts at regular intervals (e.g., every 12 inches to posts, every 24 inches to the top rail).
Gates and Gate Hardware
Essential access points that come in various styles (single swing, double swing, sliding, cantilever) and include hinges, latches, and sometimes locking mechanisms for added security.
These carefully engineered components, along with proper installation, contribute to the long-lasting performance and security offered by a well-built chain link fence.
Key Characteristics and Specifications of Chain Link Fencing
Understanding the specifications of chain link fencing is crucial for selecting the right fence for your needs. These characteristics directly impact the fence’s strength, security, and appearance.
Standard Heights
Chain link fences are highly adaptable in terms of height, catering to diverse requirements. In the United States, standard heights typically range from 3 feet (0.91 m) to 8 feet (2.4 m) in one-foot increments. Other common heights include 3 feet 6 inches (1.07 m), 10 feet (3.0 m), and 12 feet (3.7 m). For specialized or high-security applications, almost any height, even up to 20 feet, is possible.
Wire Gauge Explained
The wire gauge refers to the thickness of the steel wire used to construct the mesh. It’s important to remember that a smaller gauge number indicates a thicker, and therefore stronger, wire.
Common Gauges
9, 11, or 11.5 gauge are widely used.
Residential Applications
Typically utilize 9 to 11.5 gauge wire.
Commercial and Industrial Applications
Often demand stronger fencing, commonly employing 8 to 9-gauge wire.
Heavy-Duty Security
For maximum security and strength, a robust 6-gauge wire is often specified.
Diamond Mesh Size
The diamond mesh size is measured by the distance between the parallel inside edges of each diamond in the fabric. This dimension significantly impacts both visibility and security.
Standard Mesh
A common mesh size is 2 inches (5.1 cm).
Sports Facilities
For applications like tennis courts, a 1.75-inch (4.4 cm) diamond size is popular, specifically designed to prevent balls from getting stuck.
High Security/Climb-Resistant
Smaller mesh sizes, such as 1.25 inches or 1 inch, are considered “mini-mesh” and are used for maximum security. These smaller openings are harder to cut and more difficult to climb, deterring unauthorized entry. Mini-mesh sizes can range from 3/8 inch to 1 inch.
Roll Sizes
In the U.S., chain link fencing typically comes in convenient rolls, most commonly 20-foot (6.1 m) or 50-foot (15 m) lengths, facilitating easier transport and installation.
Selvage Styles
The selvage refers to the finished edges of the chain link mesh at the top and bottom. The style of selvage impacts both safety and security:
Knuckled Selvage (KK)
The wire ends are bent into a closed loop, eliminating sharp points. This style is highly recommended for residential areas, schools, parks, or any location where children or pets may be present, prioritizing safety.
Twisted Selvage (BB – Barbed)
The wire ends are twisted into a barbed, sharp point. This style is designed for increased security and is often used in commercial, industrial, or high-security applications to deter climbing.
Available Colors
While the traditional galvanized fence has a classic silver or gray appearance, chain link fencing is also available with colored coatings, most commonly due to LLDPE or PVC application. Popular color options include green, black, brown, white, and red, offering aesthetic flexibility to complement landscapes or corporate branding.
Diverse Applications and Enduring Benefits of Chain Link Fences
The enduring popularity of chain link fences is a testament to their versatility, durability, and a wide array of practical benefits. They serve effectively across residential, commercial, and specialized sectors.
Residential Applications
For homeowners, chain link fences are a go-to solution for various needs:
Property Boundaries
Clearly defines property lines in a cost-effective manner.
Backyard Enclosures
Provides a secure perimeter for backyards, keeping unwanted visitors out while maintaining an open feel.
Pet Containment
An ideal choice for creating safe and secure enclosures for pets, preventing them from wandering off.
Child Safety
Offers a reliable barrier to keep children within designated play areas, particularly around pools or busy streets.
Garden Barriers
Protects gardens from pests and small animals without completely blocking sunlight or views.
Commercial and Industrial Uses
In commercial and industrial settings, chain link fences are critical for security and asset protection:
Security Perimeters
Secures parking lots, factories, warehouses, and other facilities, deterring unauthorized entry.
Asset Protection
Creates enclosed areas to safeguard valuable equipment, inventory, and materials.
Industrial Partitions
Used indoors to create secure partitions within larger industrial spaces, such as tool cribs or storage areas.
High-Security Applications
Can be customized with taller posts, barbed wire, or razor wire for enhanced protection in sensitive areas like data centers, prisons, and power plants.
Sports Facilities
Chain link fencing is an indispensable component of many sports venues:
Boundaries and Containment
Clearly defines playing areas and contains balls in sports like tennis, baseball, and soccer. Specific mesh sizes (e.g., 1.75 inches for tennis courts) are used to prevent balls from getting stuck.
Spectator Separation
Creates barriers between spectators and playing fields, ensuring safety for both.
Agricultural Uses
In farming and livestock management, chain link provides practical solutions:
Animal Enclosures
Used for various livestock and animal enclosures.
Crop Protection
Shields crops from wildlife that could cause damage.
Equipment Storage
Secures outdoor equipment storage areas.
Temporary Fencing Solutions
The ease of installation and removal makes chain link ideal for temporary needs:
Construction Sites
Demarcates restricted zones, protects equipment, and enhances safety.
Public Events
Employed for crowd control, directing foot traffic, and securing event perimeters.
Other Notable Applications
Beyond these common uses, chain link fences find purpose in unique ways:
Landscaping
Used as a subtle backdrop for climbing plants or to define garden sections.
Wind Buffers
With the addition of fence screens, they can effectively reduce wind flow.
Artistic Installations
Their open structure and material properties lend themselves to various creative and artistic projects.
Historical Uses
Once used as catch fences at racetracks to slow down vehicles before gravel traps.
Pop Culture
Famously surrounds the ring in professional wrestling’s “cage” style matches, such as Hell in a Cell.
Core Benefits of Chain Link Fences
The widespread adoption of chain link fencing is ultimately driven by its compelling advantages:
Affordability
Generally one of the most cost-effective fencing options available, both for materials and installation.
Durability
Made from robust steel wire and often galvanized or coated, these fences are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist corrosion for decades.
Versatility
Adaptable to various heights, gauges, colors, and applications, from residential to industrial.
Low Maintenance
Requires minimal upkeep after installation, typically just occasional cleaning and inspection.
Visibility
Unlike solid fences, chain link allows light to pass through and doesn’t obscure views, which can be beneficial for surveillance or maintaining an open aesthetic.
Quick Installation
The modular nature of chain link components facilitates relatively fast and straightforward installation.
Easy Repair
Damaged sections of the mesh can often be replaced without needing to dismantle the entire fence, making repairs efficient and economical.
ASTM Standards Compliance
Chain link fences and their components are manufactured to rigorous ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards, ensuring quality and consistent specifications.
These multifaceted benefits solidify the chain link fence as a practical, reliable, and enduring choice for countless fencing needs.
Understanding Different Types of Chain Link Fences
While the fundamental diamond mesh structure remains consistent, chain link fences come in several distinct types, each offering specific benefits for different environments and aesthetic preferences.
Metallic-Coated Chain Link
These are the traditional and often most economical options, focusing on corrosion protection through metal coatings:
Galvanized Chain Link
The most common type, coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion. Available as Galvanized Before Weaving (GBW) or Galvanized After Weaving (GAW), with GAW offering more complete protection, especially at cut ends.
Aluminized Chain Link
Coated with aluminum, this type offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for harsh environments and industrial applications.
Galfan-Coated Chain Link
Features a zinc-aluminum alloy coating, providing superior corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanization.
Color-Coated (PVC/Vinyl-Coated) Chain Link
For those seeking an alternative to the traditional silver-gray look, color-coated options provide both enhanced aesthetics and additional protection: A layer of colored material, typically vinyl or other polymers, is applied over the galvanized steel wire. This coating prevents rust, offers a smoother finish, and allows the fence to blend seamlessly into its surroundings or complement a specific design. Popular colors include black, green, and brown, offering an attractive, low-maintenance alternative. Notable examples include Master Halco’s Spectra® (polyester framework with extruded PVC fabric) and Permafused® II systems, known for UV resistance and durability in corrosive environments.
Privacy Chain Link Fences
When visibility is a concern, privacy chain link fences integrate elements to block views while retaining the fence’s core benefits: These fences feature slats or fabric inserts woven directly into the mesh openings, offering increased seclusion and security. Alternatively, allowing climbing plants like ivy to grow on the fence can create a beautiful, natural semi-opacity.
Mini-Mesh Chain Link Fences
Designed for maximum security, mini-mesh fences feature significantly smaller diamond openings: With mesh sizes ranging from 3/8 inch to 1.25 inches, these fences are harder to cut with standard tools and are extremely difficult to climb or penetrate, making them ideal for high-security areas.
Stainless Steel Chain Link Fences
For the most demanding heavy-duty applications requiring exceptional strength and the highest level of corrosion resistance, stainless steel chain link fences are available. They are often used in environments where chemical exposure or extreme conditions necessitate superior material properties.
Specialty Options
Estate Fence
Often features black, color-coated materials with square posts, offering a more upscale and decorative appearance than traditional chain link.
Garden Fences and Trellises
Lighter gauge chain link can be adapted for gardening purposes, supporting climbing plants or defining garden beds.
By exploring these various types, you can select the chain link fence that perfectly aligns with your functional requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget.
The Installation Process for Chain Link Fences
While chain link fence installation can be a DIY project for some, professional installation ensures longevity, proper tension, and adherence to local codes. The process involves several key stages, from site preparation to securing the fabric.
Site Preparation and Post Setting
The foundation of any sturdy fence lies in its posts.
Post Materials
Posts can be made from steel tubing, timber, or concrete, with steel being the most common for chain link systems.
Installation Method
Posts can either be driven directly into the ground or, more commonly for stability, set in concrete footings.
Terminal vs. Line Posts
Terminal posts (end, corner, or gate posts) bear the most tension and therefore require substantial concrete footings or robust anchoring to prevent leaning or movement over time. These are typically set first. Line posts are intermediate supports placed at regular intervals, usually not exceeding 10 feet (3.0 m) apart, along the fence line.
Hole Dimensions
For concrete-set posts, holes should ideally be three times wider than the post diameter and one-third the length of the post in depth, plus an additional 4 inches for gravel drainage at the bottom.
Curing Time
After setting posts in concrete, it’s crucial to allow adequate curing time (typically 24-72 hours, depending on concrete type and weather) before proceeding to the next steps to ensure maximum stability.
Framework Assembly
Once the posts are securely set, the horizontal framework is assembled:
Post Caps and Tension Bands
Post caps are placed on top of all posts to prevent moisture ingress. Tension bands are then slid onto the terminal posts, where they will later secure the tension bar.
Top Rail Attachment
The top rail, a horizontal steel tube, is connected between terminal posts using brace bands and rail ends. For longer runs, top rail sleeves are used to join sections of the rail.
Fabric Hanging and Tensioning
This is where the actual chain link mesh is integrated:
Hanging the Mesh
The roll of chain link fabric is unrolled and hung from one terminal post. The tension bar is woven vertically through the end of the fabric and attached to the tension bands on the terminal post.
Stretching the Fabric
The fabric is then stretched taut along the fence line, typically using a specialized fence stretcher, to eliminate slack and ensure a uniform appearance. Proper tension is vital for the fence’s stability and integrity.
Securing the Fabric
Fence Ties: The stretched fabric is securely attached to the line posts using fence ties (or hog rings), typically spaced every 12 inches vertically. It’s also secured to the top rail every 24 inches. Tension Wire: If a bottom rail is not used, a tension wire is run along the bottom of the fence and secured to the fabric with wire clips, keeping the mesh close to the ground and preventing animals from pushing underneath.
Gate Installation
Gates are then installed with appropriate hinges and latches, ensuring smooth operation and secure closure.
Adhering to these steps ensures a professionally installed, durable, and functional chain link fence system that will stand the test of time.
Maintaining and Customizing Your Chain Link Fence
One of the most appealing aspects of chain link fences is their reputation for minimal maintenance and easy customization. With basic care and a few simple additions, you can enhance both the lifespan and functionality of your fence.
Minimal Upkeep for Lasting Durability
Unlike wood fences that require regular staining or painting, chain link fences demand very little upkeep.
Cleaning
Occasional cleaning with a hose to remove dirt, debris, or cobwebs is usually sufficient. For more stubborn grime or mildew, a mild soap solution and a brush can be used, followed by a rinse.
Inspections
Periodically inspect the fence for any loose ties, damaged sections of mesh, or leaning posts. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent larger, more costly repairs down the line.
Corrosion Protection
Galvanized and coated fences are designed to resist rust for decades. If minor rust spots appear on older galvanized fences, they can often be treated with a wire brush and a cold galvanizing compound.
The inherent durability of steel and protective coatings means that most chain link fences provide years of reliable service with virtually no intervention.
Enhancing Privacy and Security
While known for their visibility, chain link fences offer several straightforward methods for adding privacy and boosting security.
Boosting Privacy
Privacy Slats: One of the most common and effective ways to add privacy is by inserting specialized slats into the diamond mesh openings. These slats come in various colors and materials (like PVC or aluminum) and can block a significant portion of the view, creating a more secluded environment. Fence Screen Fabric: Installing a fence screen or mesh fabric directly onto the fence provides an immediate privacy barrier. These fabrics are often made from durable polyethylene and come in different opacities and colors. Natural Growth: For a more organic and aesthetically pleasing privacy solution, allowing climbing plants like ivy, honeysuckle, or wisteria to grow on the fence can create a lush, living wall that offers semi-opacity and natural beauty.
Increasing Security
Taller Posts: Extending the height of the fence with taller posts makes it more challenging to climb over, significantly increasing deterrence. Barbed Wire: For commercial, industrial, or high-security applications, strands of barbed wire can be installed along the top of the fence, providing a formidable deterrent against intruders. Razor Wire: In extremely high-security environments, coils of razor wire can be added to the top of the fence for maximum security and intrusion prevention. Bottom Tension Wire: Ensuring a taut bottom tension wire, or adding a bottom rail, keeps the fence fabric close to the ground, preventing animals or individuals from pushing underneath.
These customization options ensure that a chain link fence can be adapted to meet evolving needs, whether for enhanced seclusion or robust security.
The Rich History of Chain Link Fencing
The ubiquitous chain link fence has a fascinating history, evolving from a simple weaving concept to a global fencing phenomenon. Its development paralleled the industrial age, making it an accessible and efficient barrier solution.
The process for machine-producing chain link fencing was first developed by Charles Barnard in Norwich, United Kingdom, in 1844. Barnard’s innovation was directly inspired by cloth weaving machines, adapting the principles of textile production to metal wire. This groundbreaking method allowed for the rapid and easy creation of long stretches of fence fabric, swiftly leading to its widespread popularity across England and, eventually, worldwide.
In the United States, the mid-1890s marked a significant step forward when the American Chain Link Fence Company, founded by Guy Mafera in Medford, Massachusetts, patented an “exclusive manufacturing process of continuous wire fabric.” This patent laid the groundwork for large-scale production in America.
A pivotal improvement for residential use came in 1930, when Frank J. Mafera, Guy’s brother, patented a method that made chain link fence safer and more practical by eliminating the ragged, sharp ends of the selvage (the top and bottom edges of the fabric). This patent, updated in 1952 and expiring in 1969, fundamentally influenced most modern chain link fence production, promoting the “knuckled” selvage style that is safer for homes and public spaces.
During World War II, chain link fencing gained even greater prominence in cities like London. As original iron and steel railings were removed and recycled for the war effort, chain link quickly filled the void, serving as a practical and necessary replacement for property delineation and security. This period further cemented its role as a reliable and adaptable fencing solution.
From its humble beginnings as an industrial adaptation of textile machinery, the chain link fence has a storied past, culminating in its status as one of the most recognized and widely used fence types globally.
Top Manufacturers and Suppliers of Chain Link Fences
When considering a chain link fence project, whether for residential, commercial, or industrial applications, partnering with reputable manufacturers and suppliers is crucial for ensuring product quality, durability, and a successful outcome. Several companies consistently lead the industry, offering extensive product lines and robust distribution networks.
Leading North American Manufacturers & Distributors
Master Halco
Established in 1951, Master Halco stands as a premier manufacturer and wholesale distributor of perimeter security, fencing, decking, railing, and outdoor structure products across North America. They manufacture chain link fabric at multiple U.S. locations and are a primary choice for professional fencing contractors and building material retailers. Their offerings include: Galvanized Chain Link: Highly durable with corrosion-resistant zinc coating, manufactured to ASTM standards and backed by a 12-year limited warranty. Spectra®: Their latest generation system, combining zinc protection with a colored polyester framework and extruded PVC fabric. Available in colors like Sierra Brown, Midnight Black, and Forest Green. Permafused® II: Another color chain link system with heavy mill coating, offering superior UV light and corrosive environment resistance. They also provide matching framework, fittings, accessories, and gate options. Master Halco is a business-to-business company, not selling directly to homeowners.
Merchants Metals
With over 60 years of experience, Merchants Metals is a significant manufacturer and provider of fence product solutions for industrial, commercial, high-security, and residential applications. They boast one of the industry’s largest selections of premium-quality fence products, including: Galvanized Chain Link: Available in GAW (Galvanized After Weaving) and GBW (Galvanized Before Weaving) fabric, various gauges, and mesh sizes, with 15-year and 20-year limited warranties. Aluminized and Color-Coated Chain Link: Offering aesthetic variety and enhanced protection. Secure-Guard® High Security Mini Mesh: Available in ultra-small mesh sizes (3/8” to 1”) for maximum security. Merchants Metals operates as a wholesale fence supply company, serving contractors and large retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot through 35 service centers and 4 manufacturing facilities across North America.
Sharon Fence
Founded in 1964 as a family-owned business, Sharon Fence is a premier chain link fence manufacturer and distributor in the USA. They specialize in both traditional galvanized (including superior GBW fabric) and vinyl-coated chain link fences, providing various colors (white, green, black, brown) and gauges. They focus on supplying professional contractors and also serve DIY homeowners. All their fencing is proudly manufactured in the USA, and they offer a 15-year limited warranty.
Southwestern Wire, Inc.
With over 30 years of experience, Southwestern Wire, Inc. is a dedicated chain link fence manufacturer known for upgrading its technology to produce high-quality wire. They are capable of coating wire to a Class 5 coating and manufacturing 2oz. Galvanized coated chain link fence fabric that meets ASTM A 392 Class 2 standards.
Key Suppliers & Retail Options
FENCE-MATERIAL.COM
A leading nationwide online supplier offering wholesale discount prices for both commercial and residential chain link fence materials, parts, and complete packages.
American Fence Company
Described as the nation’s #1 supplier of chain link fabric, materials, and posts, with extensive inventory across multiple branches in the Midwest. They offer various heights, colors (galvanized, black), and gauges, and are also a leading commercial fence contractor in the region.
Chain Link Fence & Supply
Serving the Bay Area and surrounding counties since 1996, this company provides installation, repair, and material supply for industrial, commercial, public works, and federal chain link fencing, catering to both contractors and DIY enthusiasts.
The Home Depot
As a major retail option, The Home Depot stocks a range of chain link fencing products from various brands like allFENZ, Everbilt, Fencer Wire, and WRIGHTMASTER, categorized by price, color, features (galvanized, vinyl coated), gauge, and chain link type.
Regional and Local Fence Companies
Many highly-rated local and regional companies also specialize in chain link fence installation, repair, and supply. These often include businesses like Vilo Fence (Tampa Florida). We offer personalized service, local expertise, and are often licensed and insured, providing a reliable option for specific geographic areas.
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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for professional advice.