When using a fence to mark the boundary to your property, you typically have two considerations: utility and style. For example, you could simply put up a chain-link fence and create an effective albeit plain barrier. You could also throw up a cedar rail fence and create a beautiful boundary which may or may not work as a barrier. If you're considering a chain link fence, there are a few things you can do to make what was once plain and utilitarian into an eye-catching barrier for your property.
Vinyl Coating
Chain-link fencing typically features galvanized steel. The galvanizing process protects the iron used to make the fence so that it doesn't corrode when exposed to moisture. Unfortunately, this ever-so-important galvanization gives your fence a nondescript grey color. While galvanized grey looks just fine in an industrial park, it can clash with the style you are trying to create for your home. Coating the galvanized steel with vinyl provides two benefits. For one, the vinyl provides yet another protection against the elements. For another, vinyl comes in a multitude of colors. Thus, you can find a color to match or complement the colors used elsewhere in your property, or you can use color that blends into the background.
Fashion in Finials
Most chain-link fences use galvanized-steel fence posts. These posts are hollow on the inside, and to prevent water from accumulating on the inside of the post, they have to be capped. Often these caps, or finials, are nothing more than a metal disk with a rim that snugs over the outer surface of the post. By using a decorative finial, you can add some style to your fence.
Post Options
While most chain-link fences feature metal posts, you are not required to use metal. Instead, you could use a pressure-treated wood or cedar post. The advantage of using wood is that it will add character to your fence. While metal posts are typically more durable, the durability of your fence is not the only thing that matters. A good wood post should last for decades while helping to domesticate a fencing material that is typically more at home enclosing a warehouse.
Chain-link fencing is not known for having the charm of a vinyl or cedar fencing, but this should not mean that chain link is out of the question for your home. With a few stylistic touches, you can create a beautiful and effective chain-link barrier for your residential property. Contact a local contractor, like Fence Pro, for more help.
