Chain Link vs Wood Fence

Wooden fence and chain link fence are two popular choices for private and business fencing solutions.

There is generally a preferable option for particular uses, though both choices offer several benefits. Selecting the preferred choice is crucial, as a fence is an investment for any landowner. Once you realize the distinctions between these types of fencing and the benefits they offer, it will be easier to choose securely between a wooden fence or a chain-link fence.

Why install a fence?

All fences have some of the same advantages. The biggest advantage of a fence is the added security. Even a four-meter high wire mesh fence is an obstacle for burglars and criminals and thus acts as a considerable deterrent. Residential and commercial properties with fences have a much lower crime rate compared to properties without fences. Fences are also very suitable for keeping pets within the property boundaries. Homeowners can be confident that their pets can safely explore the fenced property without the risk of running away into busy streets. Commercial properties can also keep guard dogs in their yards at night to increase security.

Once it comes to deciding which fence is the most appropriate for your house, the deciding factor will greatly relate to several things, the key ones being the price comparison, the benefits and drawbacks of construction, and the time it takes to service the fence. In the following, you will find everything you should know to help you decide which type of fence is right for your property, wooden fence vs. chain-link fence.

Everything about chain link fencing

Chain link fencing is a kind of metal fencing that is built of woven steel or aluminum wire. The zinc-coated wire generates a rhombic structure that is highly durable and withstands corrosion and atmospheric influences. Chain link fences belong to the most frequent kinds of fences, used for both domestic and professional needs. Chain link fences are used to mark out the boundaries of whole plots of land, to secure large outside areas, and to indicate specific borders. Installation of chain-link fencing is a fairly straightforward procedure, although it might be limited in some municipalities because of HOA requirements.

Benefits of chain link fencing

• Most cost-effective fence type option.
• Durable against different weather influences.
• Minimal service requirements.
• Provides extra safety and security.
• Do not obstruct sunlight.
• The fast and simple setup procedure.

Everything about wooden fences

Wooden fencing is a fence option that can be applied for both residential and business purposes, although it is more commonly preferred for residential use. The wide range of materials and patterns offered for wooden fences attracts customers to select this type of fencing. The kind of wood and the design may be applied to achieve a preferred appearance that fits with the surrounding structures of the land. The options for wooden fence types include horizontal, board-to-board, shadow box, and fencing. Wooden fences might be costlier than chain-link fencing, but provide a series of distinct benefits.

Benefits of wooden fences

• Made from sustainable materials.
• Offer a variety of style options.
• Can be easily painted.
• Manufactured in a variety of height options.
• Provide additional privacy and security.

Fence expenses in comparison

Normally any type of wooden fence is more expensive than a wire mesh fence. Our estimate for a four-foot chain-link fence can be as high as $5-$40 per linear foot for the average price per linear foot. Simply put, a 50-foot roll of chain link fence can cost between $250 and $2,000, based on the size of the fence.
Like every fence, it has many additional cost factors over and above the price of materials. First, wire mesh fences are usually easier to erect, resulting in a potential DIY project or a reduced bill from your expert (the simpler, the more affordable the project). Still, a number of certain hardware points are important to keep in mind.
Expect additional costs for:

• Steel poles.
• Galvanized posts.
• Brackets.
• Edge adapter.
• Binding wire.
• Gates.

The wooden version will cost you a small extra charge because you should be willing to spend on more features, privacy, and other things. The majority of 6-foot privacy fences lie somewhere between $25 and $100 per board. In fact, most fences are about eight feet long. The cost varies greatly based on the land size, kind of wood, kind of fence, do-it-yourself or expert installation, and paint and stain.

Fence Design Comparison

Like all house improvements, we need to combine functionality and style. In terms of design, a wooden fence strikes out a chain link nearly everywhere. Chain link fences come in a restricted range of available paints. But you can opt for the California style with wooden posts and covers. On the other hand, in addition to a wide range of woods for wooden fences, multiple styles allow you to get a distinctive fence style that fits your home like a glove. It is your decision:

• Cedarwood.
• Redwood.
• Pine.
• Batten Fence.
• 6-foot privacy fencing.
• Shadowbox Fencing.
• Palisade Fencing.
• Ranch Fencing.
• Board No Board Fencing.

Fence installation comparison

Expressed quite clearly: wooden fences are tougher to build (thus the costlier to install). Whereas many wooden fences are mounted board by board, chain link fences are delivered in pre-assembled panels that are linked to galvanized steel fence posts. The poles have to be set in concrete in the ground, however, as you might expect, the mounting of a single big fence segment (chain link) is a lot simpler in comparison to a hundred small, tiny segments.

One of the highlights of wooden fences is that there is no need to add cement. Some constructors suggest it, but it’s not 100% obligatory. All you need to remember is that each and every little detail of your wooden fence is more challenging than a chain-link fence.
Most probably you picked a wooden fence for privacy. To guarantee privacy, a high fence is necessary. Nevertheless, the higher the panels are, the heavier they are. This not only gives you more time to work on your project, but it also gives you a lot of work for your body. In addition, you need to be careful that the holes of the posts go deep into the ground when not using concrete. Only be careful that you do not come across a power line and switch off all the power.

Fence service comparison

Servicing is a further unilateral discussion where chain-link fences rule the game. Chain-link fences need a minimum of care when they are installed. In addition, if you decide to buy chain link vinyl mesh, you will need even less service.

Conversely, wooden fences need to be permanently supervised to keep their natural shape. The following list contains a number of things that need to be performed after the fence is mounted (strongly suggested).

• Examine all the nails in the fence posts and renew them if needed.
• Wash the fence once every couple of months to prevent dirt and mildew from building up.
• Refinish or color the fence once per few years.
• If using concrete fence posts, make a joint between every post and the wooden panel. Doing so prevents moisture from getting in and considerably prolongs the lifespan of your fence.

Also: The best wood oil

Fence lifespan comparison

Metal is more durable than wood and metal won’t have to face problems of decay and termites. Also, the majority of chain-link fences are zinc coated, which increases their lifespan. Unless your town gets caught in a major storm, your chain-link fence is expected to hold for more than 15 years.

However, wooden fences need to be looked after to keep their shape, look, and functionality. Besides all the above-listed service work, wooden fence keepers should also be aware of the risk of termites, decay, and fungus. Therefore, it’s essential to keep the fence as well cleaned at all times during maintenance.

Once you have set up your wooden fence properly and service it regularly, you can expect your fence to withstand up to 15 years.

The 5 most important reasons to choose chain links instead of wood for your next fence

When it comes to building a fence for your property, there are many options available to you. However, some options are more popular than others. Wire mesh fencing and wooden fences are the two most common options that many people prefer. Installing a wire mesh fence often offers more advantages than a wooden fence.
Below are the top 5 reasons why you should choose a chain link fence instead of wood for your next fence:

1. 1. Cost efficiency

For the majority of people, price is the key factor when choosing a fence for their belongings. When it comes primarily to cost, a wire mesh fence is much more affordable than a wooden fence. So if you just need to minimize your costs, a wire mesh fence is a preferred option. One of the biggest advantages of wire mesh fencing is the fact that there are reliable and affordable fence constructions available today. In addition, wire mesh fences have constructions that allow you to install gates, thus reducing your costs.

1. 1. Quick mounting

Mesh wire fences are easy and quick to erect, so many homes and businesses choose this type of fence, as opposed to a wooden fence, which takes more time to erect. With a wire mesh fence, there is no need to worry about installation time, regardless of the size of the property or the height of the fence needed.

1. 1. Low maintenance

A wire mesh fence will become attractive to homeowners who prefer not to spend time and money on fence maintenance. Such fences require almost no maintenance. In other words, once installed, they are less susceptible to weathering than wood. Hot weather, wind, rain, etc. do not affect the chain links but could spoil a wooden fence quite easily. In addition, when building a wooden fence, a lot of maintenance is required to keep it looking good. Therefore, chain link fences are highly recommended for anyone who does not want to waste extra time and money on their fence.

1. 1. No easy obstacle

Mesh fences are not only reliable; their material and construction do not present any slight obstacles, so they offer complete transparency. As a result, you can place fewer lights around your land with a wire mesh fence than with a wooden fence.

1. 1. Containment of pets

While wooden fences provide virtually the same level of security for pets, they do not provide visibility, which means your pets are likely to be molested by neighborhood children from time to time or hunted by passing neighbors. A wire mesh fence will help you avoid this problem. Not only will you have safety, but you will also have better visibility so that you and your pets know what is going on outside.

Also: How to fix a leaning fence 

What is a better chain link or wood fence?

But almost invariably, even with their constituent parts – such as metal poles, zinc-coated rods, supports, and tension cables – chain-link fences can be bought and mounted at a lower price than wood, independent of the kind of wood you use. Both decisions are based on the height of the fence and the source of the material, but chain link fencing typically costs a small percentage of the cost per linear foot compared to wooden fencing.

However, in many ways, they often do not enhance the appearance of your property as much as wooden fences. First and foremost, wire mesh fences are among the less visually attractive fences. Furthermore, they do not offer the same level of protection and safety as wood, regardless of height. They are more vulnerable to damage, although they are less susceptible to natural factors – such as rot, mold, and termite infestation – than wood.

As for maintenance, chain links are undeniably more affordable than cedar fences. Compared to wood, which requires constant care or the painting and replacement of nails, it only needs basic care.

Is chain link fence the cheapest?

Chain-link fencing is a more cost-effective option that can make it attractive for covering large areas requiring security, such as around a commercial or industrial area. For a 209-meter-high fence of 4 feet, the cost of materials is between $7 and $12 per linear foot. The cost of labor is between $8 and $15 per linear foot, resulting in an overall average cost for this project of approximately $3,000 to $5,200. Extra components like gates, vinyl blinds, or fabric screens add to the overall price.

Conclusion

Finally, you might wish to pick a fence material and design style that blends in with all your exterior, which could include landscapes, yards, porches, and other attributes. Not only is this more appealing visually, but it will also contribute to enhancing the resale value of your home.
Regarding cost, value, durability, and ease of maintenance, you need to decide which factors are most important to you, depending on your personal taste, financial goals, and lifestyle.

It goes without saying that the struggle is fairly well balanced. Whereas wooden fences surely provide the kind of aesthetics and privacy you might want from any fence, chain link fences are affordable and simple to set up. The ultimate choice is up to you! Whether you have anything to share about your experience using wooden or chain link fencing, or you still have some questions, you can share your opinion in the following comment sections.