Chain-link fencing
Chain-link is one of the most affordable and durable fence types. It's practical for containing pets and children, marking boundaries, enclosing yards and protecting gardens. It lets in light and air and holds up to wind.
- Galvanized chain-link has a zinc coating that resists rust.
- Vinyl-coated (black or green) chain-link blends into landscaping better and adds another layer of rust protection.
- Wire gauge affects strength; heavier gauges resist damage better.
- Privacy slats can be woven in, though they increase wind load on the fence.
- Top rails, tension wire and bracing keep the fabric tight and the fence straight.
Ornamental steel, aluminum and wrought iron
Ornamental fences give a classic, open look for front yards, pools and property boundaries.
- Ornamental steel is strong and typically powder-coated to resist rust.
- Aluminum doesn't rust, is lighter, and suits pool enclosures and humid or coastal areas.
- Wrought iron is heavy and traditional, often custom-made, and needs periodic painting to prevent rust.
These fences come in many styles, with flat tops, spear points, finials and decorative panels.
Coatings and rust
Rust is the main enemy of steel and iron fencing. Quality powder coating or galvanizing protects against it. Scratches and chips should be touched up promptly with the manufacturer's touch-up paint. Keep sprinklers from spraying metal fences, and keep soil and mulch from piling against posts.
Posts and installation
Metal fence posts are usually set in concrete. Post depth depends on fence height, soil and, in cold climates, frost depth. Corner, end and gate posts carry more load and are typically larger and set deeper. Panels must be level or stepped to follow slopes; ornamental panels can often be racked to follow a gentle grade.
Gates and automatic openers
Metal gates can be single swing, double swing, sliding or cantilevered. Driveway gates are often automated. Automatic gates need proper electrical work, safety features to prevent entrapment, and a manual release. Ask the installer which safety standards their gate operators meet, and have an electrician handle the power supply.
Pool barriers
Fences around pools are often subject to specific safety rules, such as minimum height, maximum gaps, self-closing and self-latching gates, and latches out of reach of small children. Check your local requirements before choosing a design. Ornamental aluminum and steel are common pool fence materials.
Property lines and permits
Confirm property lines, check height limits and permit requirements, and review homeowners association rules before building.
Questions to ask
- What gauge, coating and post size will you use?
- How deep will posts be set?
- Will gates be braced to prevent sagging, and what hinges and latches will you use?
- For automatic gates, what safety features are included, and who handles the electrical work?
- For pools, does the design meet local barrier requirements?
- Will you call in a utility locate before digging?
Slopes and grades
Chain-link follows uneven ground easily because the fabric flexes. Ornamental panels can often be racked to follow gentle slopes or stepped on steeper ones. Ask the installer how they'll handle the grade along your fence line.
Maintenance
Inspect metal fences each spring for rust spots, loose fittings and sagging fabric. Touch up chips in powder coating promptly. Lubricate gate hinges and latches. Keep vines off chain-link, since their weight and moisture strain the fabric.