Suppose you’re considering a chain link fence for your property but want to avoid the industrial appearance of traditional gray galvanized steel. In that case, a black chain link fence can be an excellent alternative.
With its more understated presence, it can complement your existing landscape beautifully. Discover everything you need to know about black chain link fences, including installation, maintenance, and more, to make a well-informed decision.
What is Black Chain Link Fence?
A black chain-link fence is a type of fencing made from woven steel wire, coated with black vinyl or black powder coated to give it a more aesthetically appealing appearance. The black coating not only enhances the visual appeal of the fence but also adds an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion.
The chain link mesh and cap for each post will be vinyl coated. The posts, top rails and other hardware will have a black powder coated finish.
Black chain-link fences are popular for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance while blending more seamlessly with the surrounding landscape compared to traditional silver galvanized steel chain-link fences.
Advantages of Black Chain Link Fence
More Attractive
Many homeowners aim for an attractive property, from well-maintained lawns to appealing landscapes. Fencing is also crucial for enhancing curb appeal and increasing property value. Real estate agents note that black chain-link fences can boost property values, as they resemble the elegant look of wrought iron fencing (commonly found in upscale residential areas) and are often more acceptable to homeowners associations (HOAs).
Affordable
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fencing option, black chain-link fencing is an excellent choice. It is more affordable than alternatives like wrought iron, aluminum or wood picket fencing. Additionally, its popularity among homeowners ensures that suppliers have ample stock, potentially providing access to financing options.
Customizable
Black chain-link fences offer a high degree of customization. From coatings and heights to gate widths and placements, you can design a fence tailored to your needs and property. You can even add privacy slats between the mesh openings to create a privacy fence.
Keep in mind that local regulations may require specific fence features, such as a 6-foot-tall fence around a pool. A 4-foot-wide gate might be necessary for easy access for landscaping equipment, and different wire gauges offer varying levels of durability, strength, safety, and protection.
Low Maintenance
For homeowners seeking low-maintenance options, black chain-link fences are an excellent choice. The vinyl coating provides a high degree of rust resistance. They are not prone to mold, mildew, or algae, so it does not stain and can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer or mild soap and water.
Easy Installation
Black chain-link fences, like all chain-link fences, are easier to install compared to other types of fences. The mesh fabric arrives in rolls, offering flexibility and adaptability. Fencing contractors can easily install this type of fence, as it conforms to the ground’s contours and adjusts to uneven terrain.
Durability
With proper maintenance, a black chain-link fence can last up to 20 years due to its durable and resilient mesh. Its protective coating enhances durability, even in extreme weather conditions, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance fence. The PVC coated mesh is resistant to water, rust, and corrosion, and touch-up paint can address any scratches or scuffs to restore the protective coating.
Security
Black chain-link fences provide excellent security for homeowners and commercial customers.. The clear visibility deters intruders and helps establish property boundaries. These fences also offer safety benefits, such as enclosing a pool area to protect children and pets from potential drowning hazards while maintaining visibility for parents to supervise swimmers.
Vinyl Coating Process for Chain Link Fence
Chain link fence fabric, also known as mesh or wire, is composed of interwoven spirals that create a diamond pattern. There are various sizes and gauges available for chain link fabric.
There are three primary coating processes for chain link fence fabrics:
- Extruded: Extruded chain link fences are commonly used in residential areas. This process involves applying a thick polymer coating over the wire, providing an affordable way to add color and protection. The fabric is then woven with the wire to achieve the desired mesh size and height.
- Extruded and Bonded: The extruded and bonded process involves applying polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to an adhesive-coated steel wire under pressure. This method strengthens the wire and prevents peeling or cracking. Black chain link fences made from this type of fabric are suitable for commercial applications.
- Fused and Bonded: The fused and bonded process uses heat to fuse PVC onto a steel wire, offering enhanced protection and color. Unlike extruded bonded, fused bonded wires have a thinner PVC coating, providing increased resistance to peeling. This type of fence is typically used in industrial settings and tends to be more expensive.
Commercial Grade Black Chain Link Fence
Black chain-link fences are effective in safeguarding building entrances, parking lots, and other commercial spaces from trespassing, theft and vandalism. Commercial-grade black chain-link fabrics will feature heavier wire gauges and smaller mesh openings.
Access control is crucial in industrial environments due to strict regulations governing employees, visitors, and trespassers. Factories and industrial sites often use industrial-grade black chain-link fences to enclose hazardous areas. These fences are robust enough for use in correctional facilities, sports stadiums, industrial plants, and airports.
How Much Does Black Chain Link Fence Cost?
The cost of a black chain-link fence can be an investment in your home’s security and aesthetic appeal, but it’s important to understand the associated installation costs so you can make an informed decision.
On average, the materials will range from $5 to $25 per linear foot, and expect to pay $10 to $20 per linear foot in labor costs. Factors that affect the cost include the quality of materials used, such as steel or aluminum; gauge size; coating type such as powder or screen; and duty grade.
For most residential areas, extruded vinyl is typically used for black chain link fencing and is more affordable than bonded or fused vinyl. The height of the fence also affects cost – taller 10-foot fences have a higher price tag than 6-foot fences.
Additionally, obstructions like trees and bushes may need to be removed prior to fence installation which could add up to another $10-$14 per foot in costs.
When considering a black chain link fence for your property, make sure you factor in all these expenses before making any decisions.
Cost Factors
The following factors will determine the total installation costs of installing a black chain link fence:
- Type of fence coating: extruded, extruded and bonded or fused and bonded
- Linear feet of fencing required to enclose the property
- Fencing height
- Gauge of wire mesh
- Contours of the property
- Type of fence posts required
- Building or zoning permits
- Privacy options such as slats or screens
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
You now know the benefits, types, and costs, of professional installation of a black chain link fence.
With its affordability and versatility, it’s easy to see why this is such a popular choice for security and privacy.
Plus, you can keep your fence looking great with minimal cleaning and maintenance.
So if you’re considering a black chain link fence for your property, go ahead!
