2023

What Is Vinyl Coated Chain Link Fencing?

In our previous discussion, we delved into the benefits of galvanized chain link fencing. Now, let’s shift our focus to vinyl-coated chain link fencing.

Vinyl-coated chain link fencing entails applying a layer of vinyl to a galvanized chain link fence. This vinyl coating acts as an additional barrier against the elements, further enhancing the fence’s longevity.

Types of Vinyl Coatings

There are two types of vinyl coatings: extruded and extruded and bonded. Extruded vinyl is less resilient and can be peeled off the galvanized steel wire, whereas extruded and bonded vinyl is more durable and resistant to peeling.

Black Vinyl Chain Link Fence Picture

Homeowners often opt for vinyl-coated chain link fences primarily for their visual appeal. Available in various colors like black, green, and white, the vinyl can either blend the fence with its surroundings or lend a stylish touch to the property.

The vinyl coating extends to the fence’s posts, caps, and rails used during installation. This comprehensive coverage ensures the entire fence remains shielded from environmental elements, leading to a prolonged lifespan.

Advantages of vinyl-coated chain link fencing:

  • Extended Lifespan: The vinyl coating safeguards the fence from rust and corrosion, potentially extending its life beyond 20 years.
  • Enhanced Appearance: With a range of colors to choose from, the vinyl coating allows you to select one that complements your property’s aesthetics.
  • Low Maintenance: Vinyl coating requires minimal upkeep, alleviating the need for regular painting or staining.
  • Durability: The vinyl coating stands up to challenging weather conditions, contributing to its robustness.

If you’re seeking a durable, low-maintenance fence that boasts an appealing look, vinyl-coated chain link fencing could be an excellent choice.

What Is Vinyl Coated Chain Link Fencing? Read More »

Part 3: Trex Composite Or Ornamental Iron Fencing?

Building upon our previous discussion surrounding wood privacy fences and PVC fences, we now shift our focus to delve into the realm of ornamental iron and composite Trex fences.

Ornamental Iron Fencing

Ornamental iron fences embody a fusion of sought-after fencing qualities, seamlessly blending captivating aesthetics, robust security, enduring durability, and minimal upkeep demands.

Radiating a timeless allure that masterfully unites decorative finesse with security, ornamental iron fences showcase slim, towering bars and multiple rails—time-honored elements of iron fencing—that readily adapt to various home styles. The option to incorporate embellishments further amplifies the charm of these fences.

The slender and lofty bars of ornamental iron fences pose a deterrent to climbing endeavors. Likewise, their closely spaced arrangement thwarts attempts to pass through. Consequently, these fences emerge as a fitting choice for households with children or pets.

The ornate embellishments also assume the role of security features; for instance, spears or pointed adornments make any attempt to scale the fence perilous.

Fortified with exceptional resilience, ornamental iron fences are meticulously fashioned from robust aluminum bars and rails that stand resilient against the forces of nature. This translates into immunity against rust, rot, or warping, even when subjected to challenging weather conditions. Furthermore, their upkeep demands minimal effort, ensuring enduring contentment throughout the years.

Ornamental iron fences proudly stand as one of the earliest forms of fencing, contrasting with composite fencing—an innovative newcomer crafted by blending wood pulp and plastic resins into a unified material. The name Trex is synonymous with distinguished composite fencing.

Trex Composite Fencing

Composite fences emerge from a skillful fusion of wood pulp and plastic resins, ingeniously engineered into a cohesive material. This engineered wood variant has graced outdoor structures, including decking, for over a decade.

Trex composite fencing surpasses its wood and PVC counterparts in durability. The aluminum core within the rails stands guard against warping or twisting, while the interlocking panels uphold structural integrity.

Inherently resistant to insects, rot, and decay, composite wood fences impose minimal maintenance demands, primarily requiring occasional cleaning to ward off mildew. Moreover, composite fencing offers a spectrum of colors and showcases a simulated wood grain finish.

For a comprehensive grasp of composite wood fences or any other fencing variety, do not hesitate to engage the expertise of Midwest Fence. Our seasoned professionals are poised to guide you in selecting the ideal fence tailored to your requirements and budget. Connect with us today at 651-451-2222 to embark on your fencing journey.

Part 3: Trex Composite Or Ornamental Iron Fencing? Read More »

What Is A Galvanized Chain Link Fence?

In a previous post, we discussed the durability of chain link and wood fencing, highlighting the advantages of galvanized chain link fencing. Today, we will delve into the reasons behind its durability.

Most chain link fencing is galvanized, meaning that a layer of zinc is applied to the steel. This process forms a protective barrier that prevents rusting and corrosion. The zinc coating not only enhances durability but also provides scratch resistance.

The Process of Galvanization

Without galvanization, the steel wire in chain link fencing would be exposed to moisture and oxygen, leading to rust and corrosion. Galvanization solves this problem by bonding a layer of zinc to the steel wire, creating a shield against the elements. This significantly extends the lifespan of the fence and prevents rust formation.

In most cases, the steel fence wire is galvanized before being woven into the typical chain link pattern. The most widely used galvanization method is called “hot-dipped galvanization.” This involves submerging the steel wire in molten zinc, resulting in a chemical reaction that permanently fuses the two metals together.

Hot-Dip Galvanization

Unlike a simple coating, hot-dip galvanization creates a unified layer of zinc that extends throughout the wire. The outermost layer consists of pure zinc, while the inner layers are a combination of zinc and steel.

While hot-dip galvanization is the most popular method, there are other ways to galvanize steel wire. One alternative is passing the wire through molten zinc, which creates a thinner layer of zinc but at a lower cost.

Various techniques can be employed to apply zinc to steel wire, but hot-dip galvanization remains the most common and durable method. It produces a thick and firmly bonded layer of zinc less prone to flaking or chipping. Other methods, such as spraying or painting, result in thinner layers of zinc, offering less durability. Electroplating is a more expensive option that also yields a thinner layer of zinc.

In the next post, we will explore vinyl-coated chain link fencing as another option that provides good rust protection.

What Is A Galvanized Chain Link Fence? Read More »

Chain Link Fence vs. Wood Fence

Among the most prevalent fence types for residential and commercial purposes, chain link and wood fences stand out. Both offer robustness, security, and privacy potential, albeit with distinct merits and drawbacks.

Both chain link and wood fences, encompassing wood picket and wood privacy styles, fulfill various roles, from containing children or pets to enhancing security and augmenting property aesthetics.

Chain link fences find favor in residential settings due to their affordability and ease of installation. Available in four and six-foot heights, the four-foot variant prevails due to its cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, the six-foot alternative delivers enhanced security, making it more formidable to climb.

Comparison to Wood Privacy Fences

In contrast, wood privacy fences promise comprehensive seclusion by aligning boards without gaps. This makes them an ideal choice for homeowners seeking to shield themselves from neighbors or foster an air of seclusion in their outdoor space.

However, wood picket fences offer diminished privacy, featuring spaced pickets that allow glimpses through. This quality may suit homeowners keen on monitoring their children or pets, or those interested in showcasing their landscaping.

Why Chain Link Fences Are Popular

Chain link fences remain popular across residential and commercial settings owing to their affordability and simplicity of installation. Furthermore, they boast durability, withstanding substantial wear and tear.

Nonetheless, chain link fences inherently lack privacy unless complemented with plastic slats. The six-foot version of chain link fencing affords more privacy compared to the four-foot variant. Additionally, chain link fencing can sport vinyl covering in black or green, or it can take on a California-style appearance, incorporating wooden posts and caps for a distinct visual identity.

Other Factors in Consideration

Cost – The expense of a fence hinges on material choices, quality, and dimensions. Additional boards in wood fencing, thicker chain link materials, and the incorporation of post caps can escalate costs. Generally, chain link fencing proves more budget-friendly than wood fencing of comparable size.

Durability – Chain link fencing typically undergoes galvanization for added protection against environmental elements. The longevity of wood fences varies based on wood type. Midwest Fence employs Durazyme®-treated Western Red Cedar, bolstering its rot-resistance and minimizing warping, twisting, or discoloration. Nevertheless, chain link fences generally boast a longer lifespan than wood counterparts.

Maintenance – Chain link fences necessitate minimal upkeep, while wood fences might require repainting or restaining every few years. Though treated lumber is less susceptible to decay, it still requires maintenance to shield against elemental harm. On the whole, chain link fences demand less maintenance than wood alternatives.

Chain Link Fence vs. Wood Fence Read More »

Part 2: Choosing Between Wood Privacy and PVC Fencing

For those with children or pets seeking enhanced privacy and security beyond the realm of chain link or wood picket fences, the options of wood privacy and PVC fences present themselves as alluring alternatives. These choices offer a blend of elegance and visual appeal, delivering the desired privacy and security while maintaining a stylish aura.

Wood privacy and PVC fences stand as the epitome of combining style with practicality.

Wood privacy fencing caters to diverse requirements, but it needs consistent maintenance to preserve its original allure and may require occasional repairs as it ages. The impact of weather and the elements can occasionally leave certain wood fences vulnerable compared to alternative fence types.

Per square foot, wood fencing usually carries a higher cost than chain link fencing. However, the material expenses for wood fencing are generally lower than those for other non-chain link fence types.

When considering the total cost of a wood privacy fence, it’s imperative to account for ongoing maintenance, potential repairs, and a potentially shorter lifespan.

The precise installation cost of a wood privacy fence hinges on the volume of wood needed, a factor determined by the fence’s height and style.

Diverse styles of wood privacy fences abound, ranging from simple alternating boards to more intricate designs featuring tongue-and-groove, interlocking boards, and basketweave patterns. Moreover, there are louvered wood privacy fences employing elongated boards, fences adorned with decorative capped posts, and those displaying gracefully curve-cut tops.

The rich array of style options significantly contributes to the popularity of wood fences. With an array of styles to choose from, a wood privacy fence can cater to every taste.

The type of wood employed, the color of the stain or paint, and the incorporation of additional elements like latticework or trellises further enable the customization of a wood privacy fence’s appearance.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing has garnered favor among homeowners for its minimal maintenance demands, impressive durability, and accompanying lifetime warranty. Vinyl fences eschew the need for painting or staining and can be effortlessly cleaned using a hose and water. They exhibit resilience against environmental factors, withstanding rotting and warping.

The spectrum of vinyl fence styles has expanded beyond basic privacy panels to encompass picket and rail fences, even featuring simulated wood grain. However, the prefabricated nature of vinyl fences results in fewer style alternatives compared to the versatile on-site construction of wood fences. Additionally, vinyl fences are available in a limited selection of predetermined colors.

For those seeking a low-maintenance fence primed to endure the years, vinyl fencing stands as an attractive choice. However, it’s worth noting that vinyl fences may entail higher initial costs than their wood counterparts.

While vinyl fences are initially pricier than wood fences, the lifetime warranty and absence of regular upkeep may offset the higher expense over time. Vinyl fences also exhibit heightened durability, often outlasting wood fences for many years.

For inquiries concerning these fence options or any other types, don’t hesitate to engage a Midwest Fence professional for a complimentary consultation. Reach out at 651-451-2222.

In our subsequent article, we’ll delve into Trex composite and ornamental iron fencing.

Part 2: Choosing Between Wood Privacy and PVC Fencing Read More »