What should I look for in a residential chain link fabric?

• Mesh size. Mesh size is determined according to the “diamonds” that make up the fabric in your chain link fence. The smaller the diamond, the more steel the fabric contains. Here at the top fence company in Cedar Rapids, we recommend nothing less than 2 3/8” mesh, though mesh comes in multiple sizes, ranging from 3/8”, 5/8”, ¾”, 1” 1 ¾”, 2”, 2 ¼”, 2 3/8” to 3 ½”. Generally speaking, residential chain link fences use the larger meshes.
• Wire gauge. Chain link fence gauge (ga.) or wire diameter determines how much steel the fabric contains. Smaller fence gauges contain more steel and are higher in quality and strength. American Fence Company recommends nothing less than 11 ½ gauge chain link wire. For fences with vinyl coated wire, refer to the wire’s core gauge prior to referencing the coating. Depending on the type of vinyl coating, residential vinyl coated wire using an 11 ½ gauge core wire may have a 9 gauge finish.
• Core wire coating
  • Galvanized Before Weaving. The wire has been galvanized prior to weaving, resulting in a smooth, consistent, dependable coating. Common in backyards and sports fencing.
  • Galvanized After Weaving. In the case of this wire, after being woven, the wire is dipped into a kettle of hot melted zinc, which tends to leave icicles and nubs from the dripping of the zinc.
  • Aluminized Coating. This type of wire provides a dull aluminum finish. Ideal for highly acetic environments.
• Vinyl coating over finished core wire
  • Class 1 Extruded. The vinyl coating is pulled in a sock-like manner over the wire. Increased thickness due to not being bonded to the chain link. Can easily tear or peel.
  • Class 2A Extruded and Bonded. Thinner than the Class 1 Extruded wire and generally used in commercial applications. Less likely to peel or tear from the core wire.
  • Class 2B Fused and Bonded. Has the thinnest coating but the greatest resistance to cracking, peeling and tearing. The vinyl coating is literally fused and bonded to the steel in the manner of welding together pieces of steel. Most commonly requested by architects, engineers, city, state and federal.

How do I select residential fence framework from American Fence Company of Cedar Rapids, Iowa?

Start with the outside diameter of the pipe and the gauge. Use the table below in helping select the fence framework. “Terminal Posts” is a generic term for end, corner and gate posts. Gate posts will vary based on the size of the gate.

Are all chain link fences the same?

The answer to this question is, resoundingly, no. As the top chain link fence contractor in Cedar Rapids, we offer the following in chain link fencing alone: fabric, framework, fittings, and gates. Each component comes with a number of options regarding weights (gauges), not to mention protective coatings. Galvanized—or zinc—is the most common chain link coating, but coating options also consist of vinyl or polyester color. Fence color treatments can be used to accommodate trees and other foliage, as well as to enhance the aesthetics of your property. Color treatment can also offer further resistance to rusting on your fence.