Fence Supply Inc. - Wood, Iron, Chain-Link, PVC, Farm & Ranch Fencing, Iron Handrails, Posts, and Gates, PVC Handrails, Posts, and Gates; Gate Operators; Access Control; Kennels
The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex home for Fence and Outdoor-Living Products, Fence Supply Inc. is just minutes from Downtown Dallas in Sunnyvale, TX.
At Fence Supply we have the supplies and know-how to make your fencing and outdoor-living projects successful. Our one-stop product availability, coupled with our experienced customer service team, is always ready to provide you with ideas, product knowledge, and accurate estimates. Give us a call today at 972-226-0004!
Visit Fence Shed for specials!
Fence Shed is the outlet center for Fence Supply Inc. The Fence Shed offers exceptional values in fencing and related security products. These Products range from Demo, Scratch and Dent, to loving Used Products. Most Products that we offer on this basis are also sold in new condition. Please call for information.
Shop Iron Fence is your one-stop shop for helping you transform your iron-fencing dreams and ideas into classic and stylish reality. We have everything you need for the perfect iron fence and/or estate gate and replacement parts for your existing iron fence. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for help in selecting the right iron fence components for your property.
Visit today to find the perfect fencing and/or estate gate for your property or find accents to beautify what you already have.
Shop Vinyl Fence is your one-stop shop for helping you transform your vinyl-fencing dreams and ideas into classic and stylish reality. We have everything you need for the perfect vinyl fence and replacement parts for your existing vinyl fence. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for help in selecting the right vinyl fence components for your property.
Visit today to find the perfect fencing for your property or find accents to beautify what you already have.
All this talk of zombies in the media may have caused you to start thinking: “If the zombie apocalypse ever happened for real, would I be one of the survivors, or would I be we wandering around, dead-eyed, hungry for brains?” Well, Fence Supply Inc., your go-to fence company in Dallas, TX, is here to tell you how to zombie-proof your property in Dallas, TX with a chain link fence.
Here at Fence Supply Inc. we believe the best offense is a good defense, and we recommend a chain link fence in Dallas, TX for several reasons. First, they’re strong, and you need a strong fence to protect you against the swarming hordes. Second, you can see through them, so you can tell the difference between your flesh-hungry enemy and innocent victims fleeing their rampage. Third, a chain link fence in Dallas, TX offers the most cost effective solution for protecting your property.
Chain Link for Zombies
If you’re zombie-proofing your property, you’re going to want the strongest fence possible, and this is where chain link comes in. Chain link is made of galvanized steel wire, so it’s tough and rust-proof. You’d need wire cutters to get through a chain link fence, and zombies don’t have the brain function to operate those kinds of tools.
If you’re going to be installing a chain link fence in Dallas, TX to protect yourself from zombies, you want to make sure your fence is both tall enough and strong enough to keep them out. Fence Supply Inc. sells chain link fabric (the actual chain link part of the chain link fence) in heights from 4′-12′. Now, zombies can’t climb, it’s true, but you’re going to want a tall fence to make sure they won’t be able to climb up over the piles of zombies you’ve already slain and make it in that way. So we’d recommend a 6′-12′ chain link fence for your Dallas, TX property.
We also sell different thicknesses, or gauges, of wire for your chain link fence in Dallas, TX. The most important thing to remember is that in gauges, the smaller the number, the thicker the wire. So a gauge of 6 is thicker than a gauge of 8, and so on. At Fence Supply Inc. we sell chain link fabric from 11 1/2 gauge to 6. To protect against zombies’ swarming behavior, which could bring a weak fence down, we recommend the strongest, thickest gauge you can afford, a 6 or 8 at most, for your chain link fence in Dallas, TX.
See your enemy
You want to have clear views of what’s going around your property so you can properly anticipate the next zombie attack, but you don’t want to sacrifice strength and safety. Your chain link fence in Dallas, TX will allow you to clearly see any danger approaching, so you can take appropriate action. Also, what if your friends and neighbors escape and head for your sanctuary? You’ve got to be able to tell friend from foe, and your chain link fence in Dallas, TX will give you the sight lines to do so.
“But isn’t chain link fence ugly?” you might be saying. Well, it won’t look so ugly when it’s standing between you and drooling certain death. However, if you’d like something that is a little more attractive but just as sturdy as a traditional chain link fence in Dallas, TX, Fence Supply Inc. offers chain link fabric that is coated in either black or green vinyl, so your fence will look good while keeping you safe.
Cost effectiveness
Chain link fencing in Dallas, TX is one of the most cost-effective perimeter security solutions. Whether you need a protection for your business or your home, or you are looking for effective protection for your newest construction project, chain link will be the most affordable option to quickly and easily secure the premises.
With a chain link fence in Dallas, TX protecting you from the shuffling zombie hordes, you’ll have enough money left over to stock up on survival supplies and, ahem, anti-zombie munitions.
Fence Supply Inc. is the fence company in Dallas, TX that carries all the supplies you need to make your property a zombie-proof fortress with a chain link fence. We carry chain link fabric, chain link tubing and pipes, gates, accessories, and even temporary chain link barriers to keep you safe from zombies on the go.
Which vinyl fence is the best? The short answer is, it depends. It depends on your needs, your budget, and other factors. There are many different types of vinyl according to make, design, and composition. To help you decide, here are a few points that you need to consider in your choice:
Cost vs. Quality
Cost is most customers’ biggest constraint in choosing the right vinyl fence. You should know how to estimate the cost per linear foot. The cost considerations you need to take into account are the cost of vinyl, the cost of labor and installation, and the cost of the supplies to be used. If you need to rent equipment, you should also add this to the total cost.
Though prices may vary per state, the average cost for vinyl materials – posts, pickets, caps, and others – is about $40 to $50 per linear foot if you use mid-grade vinyl. Post concrete installation costs about $10 to $20 per post. Labor costs are about $20 to $30 per linear foot. If you add 30% for supplies and unforeseen materials needs, you will get a total of $98 to $144 per linear foot. This does not include the cost of any equipment you might need to rent.
If you are looking for low-cost fencing, there are vinyl-coated products that cost much lower than the all-vinyl fences. If you are aiming for a quality fence, then you should choose high-grade vinyl products, particularly those that are weather resistant. So before going to your supplier and picking the right vinyl fence you should first decide what your budget is, and then shoot for the highest-quality materials you can afford.
Type of fence you need
There are vinyl materials available for every type of fence you might need. It helps to know the type of fence you want to install before going to your supplier and deciding on the vinyl fence material that you will buy. Some of the common fence types are:
1. Privacy fence – are designed with no gaps to give privacy. Since the pickets for these types of fence are placed next to each other, they will cost higher than your average vinyl picket fences, because you’ll need more of them.
2. Semi-privacy fence – in this type of fence, pickets are placed on top of each other or with only small gaps in between them. Unlike the privacy fence, this type will provide a a balance of privacy and unobstructed views. Semi-privacy fencing costs higher than your average vinyl picket fences.
3. Pool fence – the main purpose of this type of fence is to keep young children and animals away from your pool. Vinyl is ideal for pool fencing since it does not rust.
4. Picket fence – this is the regular type of fence where pickets are spaced according to your desire.
5. Rail/ranch fence – this type of fence is also termed as “agricultural fencing.” Vinyl designs for this type fence are available, although they may not be found at your regular supplier. Agricultural vinyl fence types are usually sold in specialty stores.
Your unique needs
When choosing your own vinyl fence, you have complete creative control. There are lots of different designs of vinyl that are available, such as those that are designed to look like wood or iron. There are also various colors, two-tone designs, and see-through vinyl designs for your choosing. Let your imagination run wild, and don’t be afraid to make several visits to your fencing supplier before you choose the perfect fence for you.
So now you know that “What vinyl fence is the best?” is not the right question to ask. Instead, ask yourself:
What type of fence do I need?
Which fence design do I have in mind?
How am I willing to spend for my vinyl fence?
Plastic has been around for a while, and has brought us many benefits in the form of durability and functionality. The use of plastic as fence materials but was too susceptible to sun damage. This problem was solved when polyvinyl chloride (vinyl) was introduced. Vinyl stands up against the sun, and can be manufactured in many different fence styles and uses. We guarantee there’s a vinyl fence style for any need.
Design
Vinyl is the fence material with the most number of designs. The main colors of vinyl fences are white and tan, but it is also available in other colors and designs. There are wood-like designs, iron-like, and two-tone vinyl. Whatever you’re looking for, you can be sure there’s a vinyl style for it. There are even see-through vinyl fence types!
Composition
Not all vinyl fences are manufactured with high quality. There are some fence materials that are only vinyl-coated and are less durable than the full vinyl materials. In order to properly make this choice, you should ask your supplier regarding about vinyl materials they are providing. Be sure to let your suppliers know the type of vinyl you want buy. For durability, you should opt for full vinyl, but if you are more interested in cutting costs, then you should choose vinyl-coated materials.
Make
You can choose the type of your vinyl fence according to its make. There are privacy fences, semi-privacy fences, pool fences, picket fences, or rail/ranch fences.
Vinyl privacy fence – if you value your privacy and would like to have a backyard where you can spend time with your loved ones away from the notice of prying eyes, the vinyl privacy fence is ideal for you. The tongue-and-groove design of this type of vinyl seals the outside world off from view.
Semi-privacy vinyl fence – if you would like a little privacy but don’t want to fully obscure the beauty of your home, use semi-privacy vinyl fence. This type of vinyl is designed so as the pickets are overlapping, allowing a small gap in between them.
Pool vinyl fence – to keep your young ones away from the pool and prevent accidents, pool vinyl fence offers you a sturdy, water-resistant solution. This type is usually manufactured using 1.5-inch-to-3.0-inch-wide pickets which are spaced 1.0-inch to .03-inches apart. The usual height is around 3-6 feet.
Picket type vinyl fence – The classic American white picket fence, updated for today’s durable materials. Vinyl pickets are usually manufactured in 6 inch pickets which make them less prone to wind impact.
Rail/ranch vinyl fence – this type is most applicable in agricultural use. Rail/ranch vinyl fences are also available in various designs such as wood-pattern, or more. This type may not be readily available in your local supplier since they are usually sold only in specialty stores.
With this many choices you will have the exact vinyl type for your fence needs. Just be certain that you are purchasing from a trusted supplier in order to get assurance that you are provided with quality products.
Do you need a fence for your pool? (The answer is yes; many municipalities require some kind of fence for any property with a pool, for safety.) Then one kind of fence you should consider is vinyl. There are many advantages when using vinyl. Here are the qualities of vinyl that makes it a better choice for pool fencing than other fence materials:
Vinyl’s durability
Unlike wood, vinyl will not absorb moisture and it will not rot. Since what you are about to install is a pool fence, you can safely assume it will see its fair share of water. With poolwater and rainwater coming at it, you need to make sure your fence will be able to resist water, more than your usual privacy fence. Vinyl also doesn’t have a problem with termites.
Being resistant to water is also a characteristic of vinyl that makes it more durable than metal fences for your pool area. When subjected to water, metal will rust, but vinyl will be just new as the day you installed it.
Vinyl’s flexibility is another characteristic that makes it more durable than other types of fence materials. It will not easily snap and it will not easily break. This gives vinyl added resistance, durability, and will give you peace of mind.
Vinyl’s stable coloring
Wood will give you the rustic feel that vinyl may not be able to perfectly achieve, but vinyl’s coloring will last longer since it has the same color inside and out. This makes it ideal if you want to maintain the look of your fence despite the weather and water that it is exposed to. But be sure that you choose the right type and coloring of vinyl since there are some that may fade when subjected to harsh weather conditions.
Quick and easy install
Do you need to install your pool fence in the quickest possible time? Then vinyl is the right choice for you. You need no hammering, no welding, and no finishing when you opt to use vinyl pool fence. Thus, vinyl is your quickest choice for a sturdy fence.
Lower cost
Vinyl offers the lowest cost for each fence foot in your pool. The material itself is cheaper than wood and metal. The labor cost will also be significantly lower since this type of fence is easily installed. Since vinyl can be purchased in the color of your choice, you have saved yourself from finishing costs. Vinyl is also resistant to weather and water so you will need no repainting and only low maintenance for this type of fence. Vinyl saves money, time, and a lot of effort on your part.
Health, safety and environment
Vinyl is made of non-toxic materials and it also needs no painting, so it is more environmentally-and-health friendly than other materials. It’s likely that children will play and run around your pool. Vinyl’s flexibility offers a cushion for impact in case they bump into your fence, making it a much safer material compared to the hardened wood and metal.
If you are an environment-conscious person, you may think that vinyl is a hazard to environment since it is made of plastic. In fact, vinyl can be used for a long time and once it depreciates, the material can be recycled and put to good use again, making it much more desirable to wood, which is more difficult to recycle, and metal, which is cumbersome and a pain to work with.
Are chain links good pool Barriers? The answer to this is yes. Due to the alarming statistics of fatalities caused by drowning on yard pools, erecting barriers around these areas are recommended, and in most municipalities, required for pool owners. Children below five years of age are the ones most prone to accidental drowning. A chain link fence installed around your pool is the best way to keep your loved ones safe, because they are:
Having chosen chain link fences as your pool fence, you also need to know how to childproof these fences.
Mesh size
The mesh size of your chain link fence should be smaller than what is commonly used. For standard use, chain link has mesh that is sized from 2 inches to 2 3/8 inches. What you would want to use around your pool area should be smaller than this. The advisable mesh size is 1 ¼ inches or smaller. This would prevent your toddlers from injuring themselves in the wires.
Height
The height of your chain link barriers should at least be 4 feet. This height would be enough to keep your children from going over the fence.
Picket distance
The pickets or poles supporting your fence should no more than 4 feet. This would provide the ideal support for your chain link since the lesser the spacing between your pickets, the more resistant your fence is to banging.
Chain link gates
Your chain link gates should have the same height, mesh size, and picket distance as with your chain link fence. Another thing to always keep in mind in installing your chain link gates is that they should open away from your pool area. The reason behind this is that, when children are confronted with barriers, they would most likely push (pulling would be less tempting to your toddlers) against it. Having gates that open out would be more resistant to accidental openings. This positioning would help in case you forget to latch your chain link gate.
Self-closing hinges and self-locking latches
These types of hinges and latches will help enhance the security and reliability of your chain link gate. These components will eliminate the margin of error should you ever forget to close and lock your chain link gate. You can rest easier, knowing your children and your property will be safe.
For all of these reasons, chain link fences are some of the best options for pool fences.
You love your dog, and you want the best for it. That’s why you wouldn’t think of keeping it in a place where it would be uncomfortable or unhappy. If you have a commercial dog kennel, whether you sell pets, train dogs, breed dogs, or even if you’re a pet sitter, you’ll have to think about kenneling options for the dogs under your care. And one of the best options for kenneling dogs remains chain link fence.
Dog kennels should be comfortable.
Big kennels with chain link fences keep dogs happy and stress-free. Dogs like to be able to see their surroundings, and other fencing material, such as wood or plastic, are either less secure or will make the dogs feel claustrophobic. The dogs will enjoy plenty of the views and breezes that chain link fences provide.
Dog kennels should be clean.
Because of its minimalist construction that absorbs no moisture, you won’t have to spend any more time than you need to in cleaning a kennel with a chain link fence. Wood absorbs moisture, and gets dirty fast. You’ll need to spend a lot of time treating and maintaining other materials, but chain link fences are basically set-and-forget.
Dog kennels should encourage or allow interaction.
It’s better for the dogs if they can see who’s coming and going; it’s also better for your peace of mind to be able to see the dogs. With chain link fences for your kennel, you can tell at-a-glance how your dogs are doing and if they need anything. The dogs will be less stressed as they are able to interact with each other and their surroundings, leading to an all-around happier time for everyone.
Aside from being the ideal material for kennel fence construction, chain link is one of the most economical choices available. It is also easy to install, cutting down on labor costs. These fence materials have minimal maintenance costs. Chain link is a wise investment choice for kenneling your dogs, no matter what business you’re in.
Throughout America, it’s pretty much guaranteed that people’s schoolyard memories involve some sort of chain link fence. And with good reason, too: schools, municipalities, and sports facilities all over the country turn to chain link fences when they want security, durability, safety, and cost savings.
Campus fence
Chain link is an ideal fencing material for schools. Installed properly, they form a secure barrier, keeping out unwanted visitors while keeping your children safe. Chain link fences will clearly mark the boundaries of the school grounds. Chain link fences are the most economical fencing choice for large institutions, and once installed, they rarely need maintaining. Dollar-for-dollar, chain link fences provide the ultimate in safety, security, low maintenance, and cost savings.
Barriers other than line fences
In addition to the property line, most institutions need fences for traffic control, and other area markers. Chain link fence provides the same benefits here as it does for perimeter fencing: easy visibility, high security, low maintenance, and low cost.
Court enclosures
If your property has sports facilities, you’re going to need a chain link fence to enclose them. Chain link fence is strong enough to withstand even the biggest balls (and bodies) a sport can throw at it without damaging. Chain link fence offers unobstructed views for spectators while keeping them safe at the same time. And all the benefits mentioned above — low maintenance, low cost, security, etc.–still apply.
As you can see, virtually any outdoor area where you need to keep secure at a minimum cost can be served by a chain link fence. Benjamin Franklin once said, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” If you invest on knowledge, you need a safe, secure place to learn. Chain link fences will do that job.
Razor wire provides the ultimate in security and safety for your property. When criminals see a fence topped with razor wire, they’ll think twice about trying to get into your property. Razor wire makes chain link fences virtually unclimbable; people will move on to easier targets when they see your razor wire.
If you’re in charge of a razor wire install, here are some tips to help everything go smoothly. Our biggest advice: be careful! Razor wire can cause sever injuries if you’re not careful, and needs to be handled accordingly.
Length of the razor wire
Before proceeding to the installation, you should first estimate the total length of the razor wire needed to cover the entire area of the fence that you want to equip. To get the total length of the wire you need the following measurements:
An example of razor wire showing three parallel (straight) wires.
1. Parallel wire length (PWL) which is the total length of wire placed horizontally above your fence. These are usually composed of three wires placed on parallel lines with at least a 1 foot distance from each other. To compute the total wire length for this, use the following formula:
Parallel wire length = fence perimeter length x 3
2. Coiling wire length (CWL) which is the total length of the wire placed on the parallel wires. Use this only if you chose to install the said coiling wires for added security. Compute for the wire length as follows:
Coiling wire length = Coils per foot x fence perimeter x average length per coil of wire
As a result the total wire length needed in your installation will be equal to the combined length of the PWL and CWL. Don’t forget to use feet in all wire measurements.
Install razor wire braces
Razor wire braces are usually placed on top of each fence pole tilted 45 degrees toward the outside of your property. This will make your fence nearly impossible to climb.
Install razor wires
You will need to install the parallel wires first. To do this, take one end of your razor wire and attach it securely to a corner post brace. Stretch your wire on a straight line and tie it to each brace until the entire perimeter is covered. Do this two more times in order to complete the three-parallel-wire installation.
Then install the coiling razor wires by tying each coil onto the installed parallel wires. Make sure that each coil runs from the bottom to the topmost parallel wire. Do this until the entire perimeter is covered. Cut the razor wire on ends if needed.
A team of three to five would be advisable to handle this job. While installing your razor wire, don’t forget to ensure your safety and the safety of those people working with you. Proper tools, protective gear and secured ladders should be used.
To successfully plan the installation of a chain link fence around a tennis court, you should first determine the length and width of your fence. In order to do this, you should acquaint yourself with the standard tennis court layout and dimensions.
From the net, the service lines should be placed at 21 feet in both directions. Then another 18 feet is provided from the service line to the base line which results in a measurement of 39 feet spreading on each side of the tennis court, or a total of 78 feet court length. The total width of the tennis court is 36 feet.
In order to give the players adequate playing ground to chase the ball, a setback of 21 feet on both directions is provided before the back screen, and a setback of 12 feet is provided for the side screen on each side of the court. This gives you a total screen length of 120 feet and width of 60 feet, which is the dimension of your fence line.
Please see illustration below for a better understanding of the tennis court dimensions. Bear in mind that the base back screen and the side screen is what your fence will be installed on.
Chain link estimation
The next measurement that you should take into consideration is the height of your chain link fence. The usual height of a tennis court fence is 10 feet. You could have a shorter fence height on the area in between the two service lines, which measure at 42 feet on each side. In these areas your fence could be as low as 6 feet.
Based on the figures above, what you will need to buy is a taller chain link with a dimension of 218 feet by 10 feet, and a shorter one with a dimension of 82 feet by 6 feet. All of the following figures will be based on these 10-foot and 6-foot measurements.
Fence posts estimation
You will also need to buy fence posts with heights in accordance with the chain link fence. These posts will be buried about 4 feet for corner posts and about 3 feet for line posts, and spaced on average 8 feet apart, except for the gate posts. With the standard dimensions of a tennis court, you will need the following:
1) 4 corner posts with a length of 14 feet;
2) 26 line posts with a length of 13 feet; and
3) 8 line posts with a length of 9 feet.
Note: All measurements above are based on the dimension of tennis courts for official use. Should you decide to install a court within your yard for personal use, shorter chain link and court dimensions may be applied.
If you’re responsible for choosing a chain link fence, you’ve probably discovered that it’s not as easy as going to your fencing supply warehouse and telling them how much fence you need. There are different materials, types, and varieties of chain link to choose from, and one size definitely does not fit all.
Chain links are commonly classed based on the type of coating applied to the wires, the gauge or size of the wire, and the sizes of the square or diamond mesh.
Basic wire materials
There are three basic wire materials to choose from for your chain link fence: zinc-coated wires, aluminum wires, and stainless steel wires.
Zinc-coated, or galvanized, wires are dipped into zinc and galvanized using two different approaches. One is to galvanize after weaving (GAW), and the other is to galvanize before weaving (GBW). There are many different opinions on which type to use since, GAW chain link fence may have uncoated portions where the mesh touches, while GBW chain link fence will have uncoated portions at wire endings. More people would recommend a GAW finish. Despite this, both types are expected to last at least 12 years with no maintenance needed. This makes galvanized chain link fence appropriate for use on residential or private property enclosures.
Aluminum chain link fence has the advantages of being corrosion-resistant, weather-resistant, lightweight, long-lived, and of having a high tensile strength. The coating process is the same with that of the galvanized wire. This type of chain link fence is recommended for commercial or public use such as on school grounds or on a ranch. Due to its durability, aluminum chain link fences are expected to last up to 25 years, even in harsh weather conditions.
Stainless steel wires are the most durable of all chain link wire materials and as a result, they have higher costs. This type has high alkali resistance, can sustain high temperatures, and is also resistant to harsh weather conditions. Additionally, stainless steel wires are not prone to breakage, rolling, or sagging, which enables them to retain their shape over long periods of time. This chain link fence type is recommended for high-grade enclosures or barriers such as those on airports, highways, railroads, and other applications which require high-level performance.
Additional wire coating materials
To provide additional durability and enhanced aesthetics, many decide to coat their chain link fences with paint. Although this is more economical, paint is prone to cracking and peeling which would require cheap but frequent maintenance. Paint will only be of service for around 3 to 5 years.
Plastic coating is another way to add color to your chain link fence using polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. When properly applied, PVC will not easily crack or peel. As a result, your chain link fence will have lasting protection again rust, scratches, and other physical deterioration. The PVC will also provide additional aesthetic quality to your fence since these materials naturally shine and come in various colors.
Wire gauge and wire mesh sizes
Wire gauge and mesh sizes depend on the security risks and the anticipated tension your chain link fence may bear. In choosing your chain link fence, pick those with smaller mesh sizes and wire gauges as security risks and anticipated fence tension increases.
If you’re looking for someone to build your fence, there are a few things you may want to know before hiring them. Like any other service industry, you want to make sure you’re dealing with someone who’s reputable. Although you’ll want to stay away from salespeople and contractors who ask for big lumps of money up-front, asking for a deposit is a common practice among fencing companies. If the company requires a deposit, make an agreement that you’ll give it to them the day they begin work, not the day you sign the contract. This will ensure they’ll show up with materials and be ready to work.
Another good tip is to find out if the contractor is bonded and licensed. Either the Department of Labor and Industries or the Construction Contractors Board can assist you in getting this information. You will also want to check and see if the fence contractor is part of a local trade association. When contractors are part of organizations like the Better Business Bureau, it shows they care about what customers have to say.
You should get multiple estimates from fence contractors, as well. Try to get at least three. You don’t want to go with the cheapest company; you want to check and see how much the company is charging you versus what the materials are worth. Within each estimate you will find the material and labor costs.
Within the estimate should also be a statement of exactly what will take place and the length of time being allotted for work. Ask for former customers’ phone numbers. You can also visit some of the homes the company has built fences for and check out the quality of the work. Take your time when looking for the right fence contractor. Your fence will last a long time if you get it right from the beginning.
Fence Supply Inc.’s Preferred Contractor Program
Finding a Contractor in the Dallas / Fort Worth, TX Metroplex is no longer a difficult process. Rely on Fence Supply Inc. to assist you with finding a suitable contractor for your project.
Quality Materials, Quality Contractors
Fence Supply Inc. can help you choose the best products through the process that we have developed over many years of experience.
If you want to do this yourself, we will be happy to guide and direct you along the journey. If you prefer to have one of our contractors install your project for you, Fence Supply Inc. can help you with some great fence contractor choices. Give us a call at (972) 226-0004 or visit our Contractor Referral Program for more information. Since 1969 Fence Supply Inc. has been successfully recommending installation professionals to Homeowners, Business Owners, Government organizations, and other clients, big and small. We want to make sure you have a good fit and a great experience. We only recommend contractors to you that we would recommend for our friends and family.
Chain Link Fence for Perimeter Security
Security is not the absence of danger, but the presence of things that will keep us away from it. And what better way to keep the danger at bay than a chain link fence? Here is a collection of the different advantages of chain link fences for security purposes:
Ease of installation
Chain link fences are fairly easy to put up since they already come as ready-to-install materials. All you need to do is roll them out, cut them, and attach them into your fence frames and posts. No complicated measurements are involved in their installation since all you need to do is match their measurements to that of the fence. And they don’t need any finishing to improve their serviceability or to prolong their life.
Lesser overall cost
Chain link fences excel in their economic value. They cost less per fence-foot than most other fence types. Their ease of installation also guarantees that minimal labor is needed in setting them up. They also don’t need any finishing touches, so you will save the costs of painting and staining. Chain link fences also need minimal to no maintenance after installation, which adds up additional savings over time.
Added security through visual transparency
With chain link fences, you can see exactly what is going on in your property at all times. Sometimes criminals use the privacy of other kinds of fences to their advantage, because privacy fences makes it easier to hide. If security is a big factor in your fence choice, consider the high visibility chain link fences give in addition to securing your property.
Customizable measurements
The measurement of chain link fences can be customized to your needs. You can choose from different wire gauges and mesh sizes in accordance with your requirements. Below is a list of suggested wire gauges and mesh sizes to give you an idea on how to purchase chain links according to your needs:
|
Purpose |
Wire Gauge |
Mesh Size |
|
Residential |
No. 11 |
2 inches |
|
Commercial |
No. 9 |
1 to 2 inches |
|
High Security |
No. 6 |
1 inch and below |
Customization
Chain link fences are highly customizable. They can be outfitted with any number of features and accessories to add to the security of your fence. You can add barbed wire on top or your chain link fences, or you can easily charge them with electric current. Chain link fences are also most compatible with motion triggered flood lights due to its visual transparency.
Chain link fences offer a great number of advantages when it comes to security, economy, customization, and many other factors. Consider building yourself a chain link fence!Chain link is indeed a better choice and with these advantages it can be concluded that it is one of the top choices for security, economic, aesthetics, and whatever other purposes your fence may serve.
People love wood fences for many reasons, like better privacy and the good looks of a wood fence. There are a range of wood fence materials out there, which might leave you scratching your head about which one is the best. We’ve had a lot of questions about cedar in particular, which is more costly, vs. other wood varieties which are more economical such as spruce or pine. Here are some things to think about to help you decide which is best for you.
Cost
As mentioned, cedar is generally the most expensive wood choice, followed by spruce and pine. Pressure treated woods vary depending on the supplier and the manufacturer. You know your budget, but remember: you get what you pay for. Don’t sacrifice quality for the bottom dollar, because you’ll spend more in the long run if you have to replace fence panels and posts every few years because you used cheaper wood.
Longevity
Cedar is the longest-lasting wood you can use. It’s naturally water-resistant, so it repels water and ages slower than other wood types. Cedar fence materials will last 20-30 years or more, depending on the species. Western red cedar is the most durable cedar variety. In comparison, untreated spruce pine lasts only 7-10 years if untreated, or 13-16 years if it’s treated. Buying treated wood or treating it yourself will increase the lifespan of any wood fence.
Strength and durability
The oil present in cedar fibers acts as natural pesticide, giving it increased resistance when used outdoors compared to other wood varieties. Cedar is also more flexible than other woods, which makes it less susceptible to splintering and breakage.
Handling and installation
The weight of the wood you choose makes a difference in the handling and installation of your fence. See the chart below for different weights per board foot of different materials.
| Material | Weight per board foot, in pounds |
| White Cedar | 2.3 |
| Spruce | 2.8 |
| White Pine | 3 |
| Red Cedar | 3.1 |
| Red Pine | 3.5 |
| Short Leaf Pine | 4.3 |
Lighter wood will be easier to handle and will require less installation labor. Also, softer woods will be easier to nail or screw into.
Other cedar advantages
Some other things to consider when choosing wood for your new fence:
We think cedar makes for a better wood fence than other, cheaper options. It is true that some treated wood may last longer than cedar, but these treatments involve chemicals which may be toxic and cause health hazards. But cedar is naturally resistant to weather and insect damage, looks great, and smells wonderful, too.
For these reasons, we recommend cedar for investment value and quality.
Fabric — Weight and Height
Chain link fencing will add beauty, value, and security to your property and comes in many different heights and sizes. The most popular heights are the 4’, 5’ and 6’ heights, with a fabric weight of 11 gauge and 11 ½ gauge. Chain link fabric is also available in other heights and sizes such as 8’, 10’ and 12’, along with 12 ½ gauge and 9 gauge. Other special order sizes are available and Fence Supply Inc. can meet your specific needs for all your chain link projects.
Most residential applications will use the 11 ½ gauge fabric, while most commercial applications use either the 11 gauge or the 9 gauge fabric.
Posts — Size, Depth, and Gauge
To ensure a strong fencing solution, Fence Supply Inc. recommends setting posts for your chain link application at a depth of 18 to 24, and at a distance not greater than 10’ OC (on center). Most residential applications will set posts at the 18 depth, while commercial application may use either the 18 or 24 depth. Residential chain link posts are 2 3/8 diameter for the terminal (corner) posts and 1 5/8 diameter for the line posts. These posts are usually either a .055 gauge or .065 gauge.
Commercial applications usually use a 2 7/8 terminal post and 2 3/8 line post. These posts are usually heavier at .080 gauge or .095 (SS20) gauge. NOTE: The gauge of a post refers to the wall thickness. The higher the number, the thicker the post wall and the stronger and heavier the post will be.
Residential vs. Commercial Style Chain Link
Residential and commercial chain link have a lot of similarities, but there are a few important differences. Most residential chain link materials will be lighter weight than commercial applications. Commercial chain link installations may also include barbed wire and/or razor wire for added security, and is not normally seen on residential applications. Residential chain link in 4’ and 5’ heights will have fabric in a knuckle/knuckle configuration while 6’ and taller will have a knuckle/twist configuration.
Other differences in residential vs. commercial chain link include the fittings needed for each type of application. These fittings include the attachment hardware which consists of single tension bands (STB), single brace bands (SBB), one way caps, two way caps, RT caps, dome caps, rail ends (RE), loop tops, tension bars, top rail (TR),tie wire, tension wire, and pig rings.
While most residential applications use the basic set-up with one way and two way caps, commercial applications will use the SBB, RE, and dome caps to accomplish this part of the installation process. Most residential installations will use a lighter, smaller top-rail as well, usually a 1 3/8 top-rail while commercial applications will use a 1 5/8 or 1 7/8 top-rail.
Height of Fence
While personal preference may be the biggest reason for choosing a fence height, there may be other considerations as well. City codes or zoning laws may dictate the minimum and maximum height of a fence. Safety and security may be other considerations, as well as knowing that the proper height and placement of your chain link fence will add beauty and value to your home.
Barbed Wire / Razor Wire
Barbed wire and razor wire are excellent ways to add additional security to your chain link fence. These products are mainly used in commercial applications, but can be used on any chain link application where an added measure of security is required. These types of applications will require the terminal posts to be 17 higher than the top of the chain link fence, and barb arms to be affixed to the line posts to attach the barbed wire/razor wire.
Most barbed wire applications use a 3-strand set-up, but 2-strand is also used. When installing razor wire, the center strand of barbed wire is omitted and the razor wire is attached to the top and bottom strands of barbed wire using hog rings.
Bracing / Trussing
While bracing and trussing are more commonly used on commercial or heavy duty chain link applications, they can be used on any chain link installation where extra support is needed. A brace rod, usually made of 1 5/8 tubing, is used in conjunction with the appropriate rail end (2-hole RE), truss rod, and truss rod tightener. This system gives additional support in areas that may need it, such as corners or gate posts.
Chain Link Colors
Chain link is available in several colors of vinyl coated chain link. The most common colors are black and green. The standard colored chain link is 9 gauge after coating, and can add an additional level of beauty to your home. Colored chain link tends to blend in with the surroundings, making it less noticeable at a distance.
Tool Rental
There are many tools available to make your chain link installation easier. Fence Supply Inc. has these tools available for sale or for rent. Our Little Beaver augers make digging your post holes a breeze. Our Post Popper allows easy extraction of old posts. Use our Come-along in combination with our Finger and Stretching Bar to make stretching your fence an easy task. We also have pipe cutters available for any pipe cutting needs you may have. Please see our Tool Rental section for a complete list of tools available.
Gates
There are many excellent choices for gates for a chain link fence. The most common is either the single-or double-swing gate. This gate attaches with bolts on pin hinges and gate clamps and uses a bolt-on fork-latch assembly for latching and locking the gate. Double-swing gates can use a drop bar assembly to lock one panel to the ground while the other panel latches and locks to the first panel with the normal fork latch assembly. Commercial double drive swing gates can use an industrial drop bar (IDB) for additional security.
Another great choice for chain link gates is the safety roller gate. This gate uses a track assembly that attaches to the fence posts via pipe track brackets. Roller assemblies attach to the rear of the gate and it glides on the pipe track while the front of the gate is supported by a front wheel that rolls along the ground. A stable surface such as concrete, asphalt, or hard pack is needed for this type of gate for smooth operation.
Cantilever gates are also a good choice for chain link gates but are more commonly used in heavy duty or commercial applications. A cantilever gate is fully suspended on the fence via cantilever rollers which attach to the fence posts via a U-clamp. A cantilever gate must be 1.5 times longer than the actual gate opening to provide for the cantilever action. Cantilever gates virtually eliminate the need for a smooth surface since they roll on the fence itself. Both the cantilever and safety roller gates can use the cantilever latch assembly for latching and locking the gate.
V-track slide gates are also an excellent gate solution. This type of gate requires a hard, flat, straight surface such as concrete or asphalt for mounting the V-track. The gate then slides on the V-track via four or six rollers mounted in boxes attached to the bottom of the gate frame. The top of the gate uses guide rollers attached to the fence posts to stabilize the top of the gate.
Many types and sizes of electric gate operators can be used on any of the gates above and are available at Fence Supply Inc. for your every gate installation need.
| Eight Steps to Chainlink Fence Installation: |
| Before you start you will need the following tools to install your chain-link fence:
|
Pergola by Ruth Thomas via Wikimedia Commons
An arbor or pergola is a common feature found in many gardens. These consist of wooden fences and arcs where vines are allowed to creep and grow. A fully-vined arbor or pergola forming into a long, stretched tunnel will offer welcome shade and privacy.
In order to protect your wooden arbor or pergola, you should stain the wood, not paint it. This will highlight the natural beauty of the wood. We recommend Baker’s Gray-Away products to stain your wood, using the following steps as guide:
Curing, cleaning, and preparation
New wood needs to cure, or weather, before stain is added. There are four different wood conditions that require specific cleaning, curing, and preparation before staining is done: new and untreated, new and pressure-treated, old and withered, and previously-stained wood.
The recommended weathering period for new and untreated wood is 4 to 6 weeks, while for new and pressure-treated wood, a period of 1 year is needed. Old and withered or previously-stained wood don’t need any curing since they have already been subjected to plenty of weathering.
You can clean new or old unstained wood by using either a percarbonate wood cleaner or sodium hydroxide, with cleaning pressure not exceeding 1500 psi. If you don’t have either of these cleaning agents, you may use a water and household bleach mixture at a ratio of 1:2. Make sure you wear the right protective clothing, because some of these chemicals are hazardous.
For previously-stained wood, you need to strip previous stains and sealers by using a wood stripper. Make sure you test whatever stripper you use on a small, unobtrusive section of your wood before cleaning it, to prevent discoloration and damage of your fence.
After cleaning, you must prepare your wood for staining by restoring its pH. Use acidic wood brightener for this purpose on any wood condition. The table below will serve as a useful guide for determining the curing, cleaning, and preparation requirement for your wood condition.
|
Wood Condition |
Weathering Period |
Cleaning Agent |
Cleaning Pressure |
pH Balancer |
|
New, untreated |
4-6 weeks |
Percarbonate or Sodium Hydroxide |
1500 psi max |
Acidic Brightener |
|
Pressure-treated |
1 year |
Percarbonate or Sodium Hydroxide |
1500 psi max |
Acidic Brightener |
|
Old, withered |
NA |
Percarbonate or Sodium Hydroxide |
1500 psi max |
Acidic Brightener |
|
Previously-stained |
NA |
Sodium Hydroxide Wood Stripper |
NA |
Acidic Brightener |
Properly mix stain and sealer products
Before applying the stain and sealer on wood, make sure that you properly mix it before using. Proper mixing will ensure that the stain and sealer will give maximum protection to your wood products and ensure good coloration.
Wood coating
Always apply 2 coats to the wood for the best results. You may use sprayer, brush, or rollers when applying wood stain. Apply a heavily-saturated first coat on the wood and allow the stain to penetrate until only a few or no wet areas are visible. Then apply a lighter second coat. Make sure that the second coating covers the entire surface of the wood. Then leave the wood untouched, allowing it to dry for 48 hours.
Keep the following in mind when staining and sealing your wood:
After you’ve followed these steps, sit back and wait for your vines to cover your arbor/pergola, and enjoy the beauty it gives your property.
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