Chain Link Fence: Material, Parts, Types, Uses & Dimensions

According to recent estimates, the global chain link fence market was valued at approximately $6202 million in 2025. It is further projected to reach about $9618 million by 2033. This growth shows the importance of chain link fencing in both residential and commercial infrastructures.

So if you want to buy or sell chain link fences you should read this article. We have explained what is a chain link fence, classification, uses, installation, cost and components.

Chain Link Fence Meaning

A chain link fence is a type of woven wire mesh fence. Commonly, It is used for residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial boundaries. It is also known by several other names for example wire netting, wire mesh fence, chain wire fence, hurricane fence, cyclone fence and diamond link fence.

The name chain link fence comes from its special interlocking diamond-shaped pattern. This pattern is formed by weaving steel wires together in a zig zag structure.

What is a Chain Link Fence Made of?

Chain Link Fence Materials

Primarily, a chain link fence is made from interwoven steel or aluminum wires. These wires form a strong diamond-shaped mesh pattern. They are weaved into a zig-zag diamond pattern. These chains are then coated to make them more durable.

For this purpose, galvanized coating and vinyl coating is used. Furthermore, PVC coated fences are often used in parks, schools, homes and sports facilities. Because they look more attractive than plain galvanized fencing.

Chain Link Fence Components / Parts

A chain link fence is made up of many important parts. These parts work together to create a strong fence system around your area. Each component has a specific function.

• Chain Link Fence Terminal Post: This post is an important component that bears the load of a chain link fence system. You should install it at corners, ends of fence runs plus gate openings. Because these are places where maximum tension and structural stress are present.

• Chain link Fence Line Post: It is also known as an intermediate post. You can install it between terminal posts along the length of the fence. Its main purpose is to provide vertical support to your system.

• Chain Link Fence Railing: The top rail is a horizontal railing. It is installed with the upper edge of the fence and connects all line posts.

• Chain Link Fence Hooks: You can call these hooks tie wires. These are small fastening accessories that are used to attach the fence mesh to posts and rails. Their main purpose is to stop unwanted movement of the fence.

• Chain Link Fence Mesh: It is the central protective element of the fencing system. It is manufactured by weaving steel wires into a diamond-shaped pattern. This mesh is also known as fence fabric.

6 Chain Link Fence Types

Mini Mesh Chain Link Fence

As its name suggests, the mini mesh chain link fence has a very small mesh size. These openings are designed to provide you maximum security. You often find this type of fence equal to 1 or less than 1 inch. These fences are mostly used at basketball fields, tennis grounds, restricted zones and airports.

See also: 33 Types of Mesh Explained and Their Safety Applications

Privacy Chain Link Fence

These are simple fences, but you see a vertical privacy slat on them. This slat is added to reduce the visibility of the area. Mostly, these slats are made up of plastic, vinyl and PVC. because these materials are weather resistant. When you need an extra layer of security at your place you should install these privacy chain link fences.

California Style Chain Link Fence

This fence is a combination of wood and steel structure that is used to add protection plus beauty at your place. The mesh of the fence is manufactured with galvanized steel but its terminal post or line posts are made up of wood. This thing gives a natural look to your garden, home, park or decorative boundary place.

Vinyl-Coated Chain Link Fences

As its name suggests, this chain link fence has vinyl coating. You may find this coating in green and black color. Its main purpose is to provide a protective layer to your fence. Therefore, it can resist harsh weather like heavy rain or strong sunlight. A vinyl coated fence has a longer life span.

Aluminum Chain Link Fence

This is a modern option for you. This fence is made up of aluminum instead of steel wires. As you know, aluminium is a lightweight option for you. Moreover, this is a corrosion resistant material, so you can select it when you need a reliable option. But it is more expensive than a steel wire.

Industrial Chain Link Fence

Industrial chain link fence is a heavy-duty fence. It is designed for factories, warehouses, construction sites, airports, and high-security areas. As you know at industrial sites you need stronger and taller chain link fences. Therefore, these fences are built to provide maximum protection and durability.

Chain Link Fence Dimensions or Sizes

In US, the standard size of a fence roll is about 50 feet. In some cases, you may often see rolls of 50 feet for industrial usage or large yards.

Chain Link Fence Height

What is the standard height of a chain link fence? Well, the standard height of a chain link fence is 3 feet to 8 feet. Some fences come with a height of 3.5 feet too. In case of industrial usage this height can be 10 feet to 12 feet. In fact, you can customize these fences according to your need.

Sometimes, a single roll of chain link mesh is not tall enough for special applications like baseball backstops, sports fields or high-security perimeter fencing. In these situations, you can stack two sections of mesh vertically. You should join them together with a horizontal connection.

Chain Link Fence Thickness

The thickness of the fence is measured in wire gauge. In this system, a smaller gauge number means thicker wire. On the other side, a larger gauge number means thinner wire. Some common sizes that are used in the market are 6 gauge, 9 gauge and 11 gauge.

If you want to install this fence at commercial and high end residential areas you should buy a 6 gauge fence. But if you want comparatively less security at your place you should choose a 9 gauge chain link fence.

Chain Link Fence Mesh Size

When you want to install a fence you should check its mesh size or aperture size. An average mesh size is 2 inches × 2 inches. But chain link mesh is available in many other sizes; it depends on your security and budget needs.

If you choose a larger mesh size, then the sizes are 2⅜ inches or 2¼ inches. This fence becomes more economical because it uses less material. However, these larger openings can make the fence less secure. On the other hand, if you select a smaller mesh size, like 1¾ inches or 1½ inches, the fence becomes stronger and more secure.

Chain Link Fence Design or Pattern

The most common chain link fence pattern is the diamond mesh design. It is created by weaving steel wires together in a zigzag form that connects like a chain. These diamonds can be bigger or smaller in size.

Chain Link Fence Sizes Chart

Chain Link Fence Used For?

Chain Link Fence Around Pool

These fences are used at pools where young children are present. They get security when you place chain link fences here. You often see them in residential swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. Here, spas and tubs are places where the water level is 24 inches. In the case of a pool, a chain link with a height of 4 feet is recommended. You should install it directly on the ground.

Chain Link Fence Around House

In residential areas, you see chain link fences outside of the house or backyard. Actually, this is considered the safest option for your houses. First of all, this fence creates a visible barrier around your property. Secondly, it protects your child and pets. If you want to add this fence for security, you should place a fence with a height of 5-6 feet. If you are installing it just for decorative purposes, you can choose a 3-4 feet fence.

Chain Link Fence For Tennis Court

There are many types of chain link fence that are used outside of the tennis court. Outside of the tennis court, you see a 10 feet or 12 feet fence. Always remember, you have to follow the rules of ASTM F969 when you install chain link fences or chain link gates. Furthermore, you have to place top rail on all over the fence. You should use a 9 gauge wire for it.

Chain Link Fence Around Tree

When you plant new trees you need to create a boundary around it. This fencing protects trees from animals, vehicles and accidental damage by people. Always remember, when you install a chain link fence you should create enough space between the fence and the tree trunk so the tree can grow properly. Sometimes, you see informational signs at the fence like “Stay Away” or “Government Property”

Chain Link Fence Extenders For Dogs

You may also see some small fences that are used to add on existing fence mesh. Well, these fences are used to extend the height of the fence. So that the dog cannot jump over and harm others. It adds a standard height of 1 to 3 feet which can stop dogs easily.

If you want to know, chain link fence height for the dog or some other ways to extend the height of the fence you should check out the reddit discussion.

Chain Link Fence Installation

How to install chain link fence?

• Mark the Layout

First of all you have to mark the area with proper measurement where you want to install the fence. You should take the measurement according to the needs of your park, playground, hotel boundary or residential area. You can do it with a marking string line robot as well to automate your work.

• Install Terminal Post

You have to add terminal posts at corners and ends. These posts can be made up of steel, concrete, and wood. You should add them to the gates as well. To install these posts, you have to dig a hole, 2 to 3 feet deep in the ground. Then place the post vertically in the hole and fill the hole with concrete.

• Add Line Post

When the concrete becomes dry, the next step starts. Now, you have to place line posts between the terminal posts. You have to place these posts between every 6 to 10 feet. Basically, their main purpose is to add support to the fence.

• Installation of Top Rail

Next, you have to install the top rail along the top of the fence. This top rail connects all the line posts and provides strength to the mesh from top. Always remember, to add rail ends to secure the rail. Actually, these small metal fittings are used to connect the top rail of a chain link fence to the terminal post.

• Placement of Mesh

Now, you should attach the chain link mesh to the posts. In this step you have to unroll the mesh along the fence line. Then you attach mesh to terminal posts with the help of tension bars. You should stretch the mesh tightly and secure it with tension bands and tie wires.

• Addition of Bottom Tension Wire

At last, you add tension wire at the bottom of the mesh. Basically, this wire is installed to avoid sagging of the mesh. Moreover, it stops the animals from going under the fence and increases strength of the fence.

• Install Fence Gate

This step is not required for each type of fence but it is mostly used when you place a fully heighted and enclosed chain link fence. For this you have to place gate posts at first then attach hinges and align the gate at the right position.

Chain Link Fence Installation Cost

The installation cost of a chain link fence depends on several factors, such as the height of the fence, wire thickness (gauge), mesh size, material type and labor charges. But it is considered one of the most affordable fencing options. In acres, this installation price can be;

If you want more in-depth knowledge of installation, you should read this reddit post.

FAQs

What is the Average Cost of a Chain Link Fence?

If we talk about the cost of a 9 gauge chain link fence cost it is approximately £1.43-2.83. But if you want to buy a metal chain link fence its price is £3.77-6.79. 

What is Chain Link Fence Installation Cost Per Foot?

When you install a fence of 4 feet, its per-foot cost can be $8 to $20. But in case of 6 feet, it can be $10 to $29. A 8 feet heighted fence charges $12 to $34.

What are Commercial Chain Link Fence Specifications?

If you place a chain link fence at a heavy construction area the height of the fence is 3 to 12 inches. The mesh wire size is 9 gauge and is created with the highest quality of galvanized steel. In fact, the maximum space between the line posts is 10 feet apart.

Final Words

Are you searching for chain link fence suppliers? JACKWIN is a reliable company that manufactures several types of fences. You can buy any type of fence to protect your property. If you want to place an order you can contact our team for more details.