Pros and Cons of Chain Link Fencing

If you’re considering a new fence for your home, chain link fencing might be on your list of options. It’s one of the most recognizable types of fencing in the United States, commonly found in parks, sports fields, and residential areas alike. Why is chain link fencing so popular? Let’s explore the updated pros and cons of this versatile fencing option.

The Pros of Chain Link Fencing

Affordability

Chain link fencing remains one of the most cost-effective solutions available. It’s a great option for homeowners looking to save on installation costs. While it is possible to install it yourself, hiring a professional can ensure a more secure and durable setup that will last for many years.

Low Maintenance‘

One of the standout features of chain link fencing is its low maintenance requirements. The fencing is typically galvanized, which means it has been treated to resist rust, prolonging its lifespan and reducing upkeep needs. This makes it an attractive option for those who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it solution.

Safety

For families with children and pets, chain link fencing offers a safe way to keep everyone in while maintaining visibility to the outside world. You can keep an eye on what’s happening beyond your yard without compromising safety.

Appearance Options

Chain link fences aren’t relegated to the plain metallic look anymore. Modern versions come with vinyl coatings in colors like black and green, enhancing their appearance and longevity. Additionally, California-style chain link fences integrate wooden posts and rails for a more stylish look.

The Cons of Chain Link Fencing

Residential Security

While effective for basic security, standard residential chain link fences are usually around four feet tall, making them easy to climb. While adding extra height or barbed wire can enhance security, this is often reserved for industrial applications rather than residential use.

Appearance

Chain link fencing is sometimes viewed as generic or utilitarian. Without additional treatments like vinyl coatings or creative design elements, it can lack the aesthetic appeal of other fence types. Even with galvanization, the fence and posts can get scratched over time, detracting from its appearance.

Lack of Privacy

One of the biggest downsides is the lack of privacy. Chain link fences are see-through by design. While you can add slats for better privacy, this option is not commonly utilized and may not fully close off your yard from prying eyes.

If you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option that ensures safety and visibility, chain link fencing could be a great fit. However, if privacy and aesthetics are top priorities, you might want to explore other options. For those set on chain link, whether you DIY or go with a professional installation, ensure it meets your specific needs.

Got questions about choosing the right fence for your home? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Midwest Fence for a free consultation. Call 651-451-2222 today!

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Pros and Cons of PVC Fencing

Introduced in the early 1980s, PVC—also known as vinyl—quickly gained popularity among farmers, ranchers, and horse farm owners wanting a low-maintenance, durable fencing option. With advancements in technology, PVC fencing has evolved, making it a common choice for residential properties. But what exactly are the pros and cons of PVC fencing?

The Advantages of PVC Fencing

Durability

Advancements in manufacturing have added materials to prevent discoloration and yellowing, ensuring your fence remains attractive over time. Additionally, aluminum inserts in posts and panels enhance durability and strength.

Low Maintenance

PVC fencing is resistant to insects and rot, and it doesn’t require painting. Occasional washing to remove mold is usually all that’s needed, making it a low-cost option in the long run.

Variety and Aesthetic Appeal

Today’s PVC fences come in various styles and colors, some even simulating wood grain. Prefabricated panels make installation easier, and the lightweight material simplifies on-site work.

The Disadvantages of PVC Fencing

Strength and Security

Compared to wood or chain link fences, PVC isn’t as strong. It doesn’t fare well under direct impact and lacks the flexibility of a chain link fence. The snap-together assembly makes it less secure, as pieces can detach or break more easily.

Color Fading and Fragility

Despite improvements, PVC colors will eventually fade or yellow with prolonged sunlight exposure. The material can also appear less sturdy than other fencing types, and extreme temperatures may make it brittle, leading to cracks or breaks.

Environmental Concerns

PVC is made from plastic, and even if it contains some recycled material, it is still less eco-friendly compared to other fencing options.

If you have questions about PVC fencing, don’t hesitate to contact a professional at Midwest Fence for a free consultation. Call 651-451-2222.

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Choosing The Right Fence Material – Part Two

Choosing The Right Fence Material — Part Two

In our previous post, we reviewed the reasons most homeowners build a fence and explored some common fence materials. This time, we’ll quickly revisit the reasons for fence installation and examine additional materials you might consider for your fencing project.

Reasons for Building a Fence

Homeowners typically build fences for several key reasons, including:

Protection – Enhancing security for your home by deterring intruders or wild animals.
Appearance – Adding an attractive or decorative element to your property.
Safety – Ensuring pets and children stay contained within a secure area.
Privacy – Shielding your yard from prying eyes.
Legal Requirements – Complying with local codes, such as those requiring fences around pools.
Boundary Marking – Clearly defining property lines.

Understanding why you need a fence can help you choose the best material. In our previous post, we discussed chain link, wood, and PVC (vinyl) fences. Now, let’s look at other options:

Composite Fencing

Composite fencing is a relatively new material made from recycled wood fibers and plastic resins, marketed under brand names like Trex Fencing. Known as ‘engineered wood,’ composite materials have been used in decks and outdoor structures for over a decade.

Composite fencing is solid, unlike hollow PVC panels and posts which may be reinforced with aluminum. This material resists insects and rot while remaining low maintenance. It’s a modern solution combining durability with eco-friendliness.

Trex composite fencing can withstand winds in excess of 130 mph.

Wrought Iron or Aluminum

One of the oldest fence materials, wrought iron (or modern-day aluminum) is celebrated for its appearance, security, durability, and low maintenance. Traditional designs feature thin, tall bars spaced a few inches apart, connected by rails at the top and bottom.

Ornate decorative accents can be added to create a unique look, with sharp points enhancing security. Wrought iron and aluminum fences are among the most durable, though they do require occasional painting to combat weathering.

Brick

Brick fencing is incredibly strong and durable, outlasting many other materials and weathering the elements exceptionally well. However, it’s also one of the most difficult to install, requiring skills beyond those of most DIY enthusiasts. The cost of materials and labor also makes brick one of the more expensive fence options.

Stone

Similar to brick, stone fences are durable and weather-resistant but difficult to install. The material’s expense and the expertise required for installation make it a less common choice for homeowners. However, when expertly crafted, stone fences offer unparalleled beauty and longevity.

Next Steps

Choosing the right fence material is the first step; installation is the next. While some materials are suitable for DIY projects, professional installation ensures your fence stands sturdy and lasts long.

If you have questions about these or any other fence materials, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional at Midwest Fence for a free consultation, and they can install for you. Call us at 651-451-2222.

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Choosing the Right Fence Material

Adding a fence to your property is a decision that can stem from various motivations. Whether it’s for protection, aesthetics, safety, privacy, legal compliance, or boundary marking, understanding your primary purpose will guide you towards selecting the best material.

The most practical reasoning one gets a fence is for security or protection. They can keep unwanted visitors, whether human or animal, off your property. In addition, they can prevent prying eyes from peeking into the goings on in your backyard. But beyond that, they can also add an attractive element to your landscaping, gardens, and homes.

For families, they provide safety by keeping pets and children contained within the yard. With a fench, your dog can chase the tennis ball freely without you worrying of a fast getaway. And your kids can roam with clear boundaries. But also, fences might be something that you’re required to be looking into. Legally, certain local regulations may require fencing around pools for safety reasons. Lastly, fences can mark property boundaries clearly.

Choosing the right fence material involves considering several factors, including the material’s strength, durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost. Some materials are sturdier and weather better, while others provide specific visual or functional benefits.

Chain Link Fences

One of the most popular choices, chain link fences, offers a robust barrier while maintaining visibility through its open space between the fencing chains. Options like vinyl coating can enhance its appearance and longevity, while slats can be added for increased privacy. Chain link fences are also among the most affordable options available.

Wood

Wood fences are another favorite, offering flexibility in design and customization to suit various tastes and needs. Different types of wood are used, including treated varieties to resist rot. While wood fencing requires more maintenance and skill to install, it allows for creating custom styles that can cater to security, privacy, or decorative purposes. Though typically more expensive than chain link fencing, wood remains more affordable than most other materials. And you also have a little variation in your design, with both Wood Private, and Wood Picket, Fences as the selections you can choose from.

Vinyl or PVC Fences

Introduced in the 1980s, vinyl or PVC fencing is known for its low maintenance and durability. Resistant to wear, bugs, and rot, these fences do not twist or warp over time. Vinyl panels can be solid or designed with slats to allow airflow and visibility. Technological advancements have improved this material, including inhibitors to prevent yellowing or fading. Generally, vinyl fencing is more costly than wood or chain link options.

If you have any questions about these fence types or others, don’t hesitate to contact a professional at Midwest Fence for a free consultation by calling 651-451-2222.

In our next post, we will explore other materials, including composite, wrought iron, aluminum, and other natural options. Stay tuned!

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Pressure Treatment for More Durable Fences

Pressure Treatment for More Durable Wood Fences

From more affordable choices for wood fences such as pine, to more visually appealing options like redwood, making your choice is the first and easy decision. But you’ll also want to consider various wood treatment methods, which includes a newer innovation for a durable wood fence—Duracedar.

What is Pressure Treatment in Wood?

Pressure-treating wood is a technique manufacturers use to extend the life of wood against rot, termites, and other insects that degrade it. This process involves injecting chemicals into the wood under high pressure to preserve it. It can be used to infuse various types of chemicals and materials into the wood, making it ideal for fencing.

Pressure-treated wood is commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Examples include:

Railroad Ties and Guardrail Posts beside roadways
Timbers for Marine Use treated with creosote

The treatment process is most effective on sapwood, the softer outer layer that transports sap from the tree’s base to its height. In contrast, heartwood—the denser, inner core providing structural strength—is less receptive to treatment.

Introducing Duracedar

Treating wood for fence rails and posts is a common practice. However, Midwest Fence has taken this a step further by developing a proprietary pressure-treating method specifically for western red cedar through extensive testing.

Duracedar addresses common issues associated with traditional pressure-treated lumber, such as warping, twisting, checking, and discoloration. This innovation promises greater durability and aesthetic appeal, making it an excellent choice for your fencing needs.

By leveraging advanced techniques and continual testing, Duracedar stands out as a superior option for those seeking long-lasting, beautiful wood fencing.

Modern Wood Treatment with Midwest Fence

The evolution of wood treatment methods offers homeowners and businesses enhanced durability and longevity for their fencing projects. From traditional pressure-treated wood to the innovative Duracedar, the options have never been more robust or varied.

Interested in learning more? Contact Midwest Fence to explore how Duracedar can elevate your next fencing project.

Midwest Fence prides itself on its skilled fence estimators who will visit your property, discuss your fencing needs, and then provide a no-cost estimate for your project. Call 651-451-2222 today to schedule your free estimate.

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