Whether you call it chain link fence, diamond mesh fence, or something else, chain link fencing is one of the most popular types worldwide. They provide a sturdy and affordable way to keep areas safe and organized. However, if you seek chain link fence privacy, there are some considerations.
What Is a Chain Link Fence?
Chain link fencing contains steel wires woven into a diamond pattern. A number of steel posts and rails support them. It’s durable, affordable, and versatile. You have likely seen it around parks, sports fields, homes, and industrial sites. People often use these fences to mark boundaries, provide security, and keep pets or children safe in a specific area.
How to Improve Chain Link Fence Privacy?
Although chain link fences come with a number of advantages, like durability and affordability, they have a drawback, which is the lack of privacy. However, you can resolve this concern. Following are some measures you can take to make your chain link fence more secure.
- Know Your Gauge
Chain link fences come in different wire thicknesses, called gauges. A lower gauge number means a thicker wire. For example, 6 gauge is thicker than 9 gauge, and 11 gauge is only suitable for light residential use. Residential fences usually use 9 or 11-gauge, while 6 and 8-gauge are used for industrial and security purposes because they are stronger and harder to cut through. - Choose the Right Selvage
Chain link fences have different types of selvage (the edge of the fence). For residential and public fences up to 6 feet high, knuckle-knuckle selvage is used, which means the wire ends are bent over and not sharp. This is safer for areas with children.For security fences, knuckle-barb or barb-barb selvage is suitable, which has barbs sticking out to make climbing more difficult. Barbed selvages are common in high-security areas like prisons. - Consider a Bottom Rail
People might try to get under a fence, especially if the bottom has been worn down over time. Adding a bottom rail creates a strong edge that makes it harder to manipulate and helps keep the fence fabric tight, preventing gaps that could be exploited. - Buried Mesh
If a bottom rail isn’t an option, burying some of the fence mesh in the ground can prevent animals from digging under and add extra security. While it makes installation more labor-intensive, it’s easier to do while installing the fence rather than after. Buried mesh is a good option for high-security areas. - A Secure Structure
Chain link fences can look similar, but their strength varies. Residential fences use lightweight tubing, while industrial and security fences use heavier, thicker pipes, like Schedule 40 or SS40, making them tougher and more resistant to damage. - Closer Posts
If you’re worried about people cutting through the fence and driving through, spacing the posts closer together (7 or 8 feet apart) makes it harder to open the fence. Closer posts make the fence more rigid and resistant to being pushed or pulled open. - Steel Fittings
For added security, use steel fittings instead of cast aluminum. The technician can weld steel fittings in place after installation. This makes them tamper-resistant and difficult to remove without special tools. - Barbed Wire and Razor Coils
Barbed wire is a common addition to fences for extra protection, with three or six strands above the chain link. Razor coils are more effective but might not be legal in many places in the USA. Both barbed wire and razor coils make climbing the fence painful and deter intruders. - Fence Detection Systems
No fence is completely secure, but adding a detection system can help. These systems contain an alarm and detect vibrations.If an intruder tempers with the fence, the alarm sounds, giving early warning and allowing security to respond quickly. - A Different Aperture
Choosing a smaller mesh size, or “mini mesh,” increases security. Smaller openings are harder to cut through and make climbing more difficult. Mini mesh provides less space for hands and feet, making it a more effective deterrent against unauthorized access.
Final Word
Chain link fences undoubtedly provide a practical solution to secure yards and commercial buildings. However, if you have concerns with chain link fence privacy, you have to go the extra mile to make it more secure and private.
Looking for a customized chain link fence that caters to your needs? Our team at Southland Fence & Supply can help. Our skilled workmanship turns your purchase into an investment. Call us at (281) 355-0707 to reach out.