Chain Link Fences: The Pros and Cons

When it comes to your home or business, we know it’s important to find a secure, sturdy material for your fence. With all the different styles and materials available now, not only can prices start climbing, but you might get overwhelmed by the factors to consider before buying. The chain link fence has been the answer to this problem for many years. This tough, durable material provides excellent protection for your property while still maintaining an affordable price.

Chain-link fences have been trusted for decades to provide an effective barrier around your home or business. However, this material might not be ideal for every situation. Considering all your options can ensure you pick the right fence for your needs.

That’s why we’re here to offer some help by outlining the pros and cons of chain link fences, so you can decide if it is right for you!

The Pros of a Chain Link Fence

There are many benefits of a chain link fence. Here are the three we consider the biggest pros:

1. Affordability

If you have acreage around your home or business, paying for wood or vinyl fencing to enclose that much land results in a steep price that is unappealing for many. The biggest draw and why chain link fences are so popular is their affordable price. Buying sections of chain-link fencing will be significantly cheaper than other materials.

2. Containment

Sometimes your goal for a fence is to simply keep something contained within your property. Chain link fences are very effective at creating a barrier, but you should consider what you are trying to contain before assuming it is right for your needs. For example, if you have larger dogs or older children who could easily get over the fence, it may not be sufficient for you. Young children and small dogs, on the other hand, will be easily contained within the barrier of a chain link fence.

3. Maintenance

Materials like wood require more maintenance, and you can usually plan on some issues coming up throughout the years. Another bonus of chain link fencing is that it needs little to no maintenance. While you may have seen some chain link fences with rust caused by prolonged exposure to rain or other weather conditions, this process takes many years to occur. If you live in an area that often gets severe storms and rainfall, you can add a protective coating to your chain link fence. This will safeguard against rust and allows you some customization, as you can choose your own color for the coating.

The Cons of Chain Link Fences

While you may think that chain link fences are a clear choice, some cons might not be ideal for your situation. The biggest drawbacks of a chain link fence include the following:

1. Property Value

When it comes to selling your property or trying to increase curb appeal, a fence is an effective method to achieve this goal. While a fenced yard is better than nothing, a chain-link fence will not add to your property value like ornamental fencing. If you aren’t planning on selling your home anytime soon, this con may not affect you at all. However, if reselling your home is a possibility you’re considering in the next few years, chain link fences most likely won’t attract buyers of a higher price point. If you want added curb appeal and to increase the value of your property, wood or vinyl fencing is the better option. Because of the inexpensive nature of chain link fencing, potential buyers can negatively construe it as a signal that the rest of your home is also cheaper. If you’ve spent money on renovations to your home, you don’t want the presence of a chain link fence to take away from the work you have already put into the property.

2. Privacy

If your property is located on a busy street or somewhere you want added privacy, then a chain link fence would not be the best fit for you. Privacy fences offer a solid wall that prevents any visibility into your yard. Chain link fences do not provide any of these features, and there will still be visibility to your property with one installed. While adding decorative slats or greenery can provide some privacy to a chain link fence, you will still be able to see partly through those. If privacy is your number one concern, you will benefit more from privacy fences like wood or vinyl.

3. Security

While we’ve hinted at this in the cons above, it should be stated clearly that chain-link fencing is not ideal for security. Residential chain-link fences are typically 4-5 feet tall, and their diamond-shaped holes make them easy to climb over. Chain link fences can be made taller or have barbed wire placed at the top, but if you don’t want your home to look like a prison camp, we recommend veering away from these measures. When it comes to good security, many fencing materials will provide safe, durable protection to your property while still providing an appealing look (one that doesn’t make you the sketchy house in the neighborhood that parents warn their children about).

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fence that provides basic functionality, is low maintenance, and is affordable, a chain link fence will be your perfect fit. However, if some of these cons made you second guess this choice, don’t worry! Our team at Accurate Fence can help you find the fencing material that will fit all of your needs. With over 100+ years of combined experience, our expert installers will help you every step of the way. Give us a call today for a FREE on-site estimate at 770-985-3700!