I'd love to be able to afford a house further off the main road, but unfortunately I'm not there yet. In the meantime, we live near a main road, and we have a huge fence to keep the dogs and the kids inside and the noise out. It's a challenge to find a design for a really big fence that doesn't look like a jail fence! I have researched all of the options I have to keep everyone safe and make our yard as comfortable as possible, and I thought this info might be useful for other homeowners like me.
When you are looking at fences for your home, there are many to choose from. Here are some pros and cons of chain link fences to decide if this is the right option for you.
Pro: The fence is affordable
If you want a fence around your property but have a limited budget, this is a great option. The fence materials don't cost much whether you are installing it yourself or paying someone to put it up for you. While it is metal, this is considerably less expensive than other types of metal fences. What you lack in security and appearance, you get in affordability.
Con: It isn't good for security
While the chain link fence is a good way to keep pets and children in the yard, it won't keep people out in many cases. This is not considered a high-security fence. The chain link can be cut or bent, especially if the metal fence is older and not quite as sturdy. Unless you have it built extremely tall and add barbed wire to the top of it, it can also be jumped over by adults. If you are looking for a fence to keep people out, this might not be the fence for you.
Pro: Chain link fences are easy to install
A good benefit to these fences is that they are easy to install. In many cases, you will be able to install the fence on your own. This can help you get it up as soon as you purchase the materials and save on money by not having to hire a contractor to install it for you. However, even if you do have a professional install it to ensure quality, it takes less time, thus saving you even more money.
Con: The material can rust
Chain link fences are generally low-maintenance, which can also be one of the benefits of this type of fence. However, due to the inexpensive metal used in these fences, it is prone to rusting over time. If you live somewhere with a lot of moisture and rain, that rust might happen more quickly. The only way to prevent rust is to get chain links that are coated in vinyl, which provides a layer of protection from the rust.
Pro: The fence provides safety on both sides
A great thing about chain link fences is that they not only provide better safety and security inside the yard, but outside the yard as well. The fence is a great option for keeping small children and pets contained in your front or back yard. The links can be close enough together to where even small pets can't get through them, though be aware that if it is short, cats can jump over them. However, you will also be able to see your children through the fence if they are playing or riding their bicycles on the street. This is something many other fences don't allow you to do.
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