Attractive, versatile and creative – a chain-link fence system can be an excellent choice. With the right fence you can expect years of protection, privacy and value. But as with any investment, it pays to do your homework. Chain-link fencing comes in a wide range of qualities, colors, sizes and types. Before you buy, spend a little time getting to know what’s currently available. That way, you’ll get the most value for your money and the right fence for your needs.

All chain-link fences aren’t the same

Chain-link has four elements: fabric, framework, fittings and gates. How you combine them makes all the difference. Each of these components are available in a range of weights (gauges) and types of protective coatings. Providers can mix and match components in an effort to shave costs or differentiate their product. My minimum recommendations will typically follow the minimum practices defined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The most common coating is zinc (galvanized), but you’ll also find chain-link components with vinyl or polyester color coatings in addition to zinc. These color treatments enhance landscaping and blend naturally with trees, shrubs and bushes. They’ll also give you even more protection against corrosion or rust.

Some just can’t handle residential wear and tear

A light chain-link system can’t take much abuse. The framework may bend easily, the fabric may distort and animals may easily damage it. Even common occurrences, such as a person climbing or sitting on the fence, heavy wind blowing debris against it or a dog jumping on it may cause damage. Inferior coatings may also allow the components to rust prematurely. Fence manufacturers make products for many different uses, including lightweight, temporary needs. Consumers sometimes buy fencing like this because of its lower price, or because they don’t understand that all fencing is not the same. The result – a “permanent installation” made from materials that weren’t designed for longevity.

Quality tests prove there’s a difference

Tests on light-gauge fences were conducted under the auspices of the Chain-Link Fence Manufacturers Institute (CLFMI). They found that a 75-pound dog and 100-pound child could severely damage or even collapse the lightest-gauge fences. In addition, the CLFMI conducted a study of recent fence buyers to learn what they expected from their chain-link fence. It turned out that once they fully understood their options, 100 percent of these buyers would have selected a heavier fence.

How to choose a chain-link fabric

Select your chain-link fence fabric based on these three criteria: gauge of wire, size of mesh and type of protective coating. Gauge (ga.) or diameter of wire is one of the most important factors – it helps tells you how much steel is actually in the fabric. The smaller the gauge number, the more steel used, the higher the quality and the stronger the wire. From lightest to heaviest, common gauges are 13, 12-1/2, 11-1/2, 11, 9 and 6. Unless you are building a temporary fence, I would recommend fencing between 11-1/2 and 9 gauge. 6 gauge is typically for heavy industrial or specialized uses and the lighter gauges are best suited for temporary fencing.

Measure the mesh

Mesh size tells you how far apart the parallel or diamond shape wires are in the fabric. And that’s another indication of how much steel is in the product. The smaller the diamond, the more steel is in the fabric. From largest to smallest, typical mesh sizes are 2-3/8″, 2-1/4″ and 2″. Smaller meshes such as 1-3/4″ for tennis courts, 1-1/4” for pools and high-security mini meshes of 5/8″, 1/2″ and 3/8″ are also available.