If you want to improve the look and security of your property, a chain-link fence can help. To start, you need to know the differences between vinyl and steel chain-link fencing and what a chain-link fence is made of. Here’s a closer look at the differences between these two and how they can improve the appearance and security of your property.
What is a chain-link fence made of?
Also known as a hurricane, wire-mesh, wire netting, or cyclone fence, a chain-link fence is made of galvanized or vinyl-coated steel woven together to form diamond patterns. The steel wires are also galvanized or coated with vinyl to reduce corrosion. Vinyl is used to coat the wires as a protective layer and to improve the appearance of the fence. You can also use vinyl to make large veneers for fencing to reduce visibility and increase security.
The difference between vinyl and steel chain-link fence
The major difference between the fences is that one is coated with vinyl, and the other is galvanized. Galvanization involves coating iron wires with other metals, such as zinc or carbon, to reduce rusting. The vinyl coating may be added on the already-galvanized wire to reinforce its corrosion resistance and also to make it look better.
Security
Both vinyl and steel chain-link fences offer the same level of security. Using strong poles enhances the strength of the fence to further protect against intrusion. You can also improve fence security by making the links smaller or by installing metal slats. You can also make the fence taller, add barbed wire to it, or both.
Cost
The vinyl-coated chain-link is slightly more expensive than the galvanized chain link. The extra cost on the vinyl chain-link is due to the appearance and the ability to better withstand harsh weather conditions.
Color and appearance
The vinyl-coated chain-link option comes in many colors. The most common color is black, but fences also come in green, brown, or white. Moreover, along with what the beauty of a fence brings, this variety of colors also lets you blend the fence with its surroundings. The galvanized chain-link, for example, has more of an industrial appearance and would therefore be perfect for farms and other commercial plots.
Durability
Both types of fences will last for almost the same time with no maintenance or painting. However, the galvanized chain-link will eventually lose its metallic color. On the other hand, the vinyl-chain link keeps its color for a longer time and can withstand more difficult weather conditions.
Uses
The look of the vinyl chain-link fence makes it ideal for homes or recreational areas. It also increases the value of your property, since it’s more attractive to buyers. Galvanized chain-link has an industrial look, making it great for farms, schools, military barracks, industries, and hospitals. In some areas, a galvanized chain-link fence is discouraged by real estate developers for residential plots, since it lowers the land’s value.
Other differences
Chain-link fences are the most common fences due to their affordability. Cost alone, however, shouldn’t be the only factor when considering which fencing is best for your property. Here are a few other things to think about before you decide what you want.
Level of security
If you’re looking for a higher level of protection for your property, you should choose the steel fence, since it doesn’t have footholds like the chain-link, thus keeping away climbers. Commercial chain-link fencing and the chain-link security fence with barbed wire would be okay for medium-level security.
Appearance
This category differs from person to person, but many favor the appearance of the steel fence over the chain-link fence. If style matters a lot to you, then you should go with the steel fence.
Property value
In addition to a higher level of security, the appearance of the steel fence attracts more customers to your plot, thereby increasing the value of your property. It’s a case of high demand equals higher price. If you’re developing the property to sell it later, a steel fence may be the better choice.
Topography
The terrain of your property should also be a factor when choosing a fence. If your property is flat, you can go for either the chain-link or the steel fence, depending on your preferences.
If the terrain is uneven and varies widely, consider the steel fence, since you can install it to match the topography of your land. You can still use the chain-link, but it would cost a lot to install, since you’ll have to level the field before installation.
For more information
Both of these fencing options can improve the look and security of your property. Contact United Fence Company today at (501) 213-3083 for more information on which option is right for you.
