The Pros and Cons of Chain Link Fencing

Chain Link fences are a time-tested type of affordable fencing. Effective and secure, they can help you keep people or pets in or out of your yard. However, they are not the most attractive fences. To decide whether a chain link fence is right for you, it is important to consider their pros and cons.

One of the biggest pros of chain link fencing is that it is affordable. They are much cheaper than similarly sized wooden or vinyl fences. So, you may be able to afford chain link, even if you are on a budget. Plus, those savings last after installation. They are long-lasting, low-maintenance fences. You will save on time and money for upkeep.

Speaking of low-maintenance, that is another benefit of chain link fencing. While chain link fences may eventually develop rust, they are designed to resist corrosion. You can get chain link with protective coatings that keep rust out for years. If the fence gets splattered with dirt, you can use a power washer to quickly clean it without doing any damage.

If your chain link gets damaged, it is easy to repair. You can usually cut out the damaged area and replace it with new materials.

For handy people, chain link fences are an easy DIY project. You can fence an average-sized backyard in about a weekend. Because they are easy to install, you can also get them professionally installed for a much lower installation price than other types of fences.

You can use chain link fences in many places. You find them in plenty of commercial properties. They are often used in recreational areas like swimming pools or sports fields. Many homeowners also use them for residential areas.

There are some cons for chain link fences, as well. For many people, the biggest drawback is the lack of privacy. Chain link fences are see-through, so they cannot replace a privacy fence. However, you can install slats in the fence for some additional privacy.

Chain link fences are easy to climb, and they are usually only 4 to 5 feet tall. Even taller chain link fences can be easy to scale. People can also clip through them with wire cutters or even pliers. So, if you need a secure perimeter, a chain link fence may not be the best option.

Chain link fences are a low-cost option. So, it is no surprise that they do not really increase your property value. Generally, they will not decrease your property value, either, but that may depend on your area. Because chain link is one of the less attractive fencing options out there, it could decrease your property value in neighborhoods with many vinyl fences. It looks functional, not decorative. However, if you value function over form, then a chain link fence might be right for you.