Simple Ways to Improve the Security of a Chainlink Fence

The primary chain link fence is a steel wire mesh wrapped in PVC. It is available in different heights and a range of mesh sizes, and the wire gauge or mesh size for the fabric is 1/2" to 1/4"—the smaller the gauge, the finer the mesh, and the smaller the object that can be caught in it.

The holes in the wire are 1/8" in diameter, and the chain-link fabric is stretched taut and tightly stitched every 2' to strengthen it and prevent sagging. Chain-link fabric is available in 40' or 80' rolls or by the linear foot for cutting to the exact length you need.

The fence is made of steel wires—the fabric is formed by rows of horizontal wires and vertical wires. If you're looking to beef up the security of your chain link fence, you want to focus on the following security tweaks. Now, these will not turn a chain link fence into Fort Knox, but they will take a fence from "spikey obstacle" to "intimidating deterrence."

Here are some simple ways to improve the security of your chain link fence:

Know Your Gauge

One of the simplest ways to beef up your fence is to increase the wire gauge. The higher the gauge, the closer the mesh can get before a criminal can cut through it. Anywhere from 1/4" up to 1/2" is considered a standard wire gauge, and many chain link fabric rolls are available in this gauge. If you increase the gauge too much, you will find that the fabric is heavier and more expensive.

Get the Right Selvage

The selvage of a chain-link fence is the additional piece of chain link fabric above and below the actual wall. The selvage fabric is tight and is cut so that the ends of the wire are straight and interlock. The selvage is used to overlap the chain link fence and attach it to the posts. When you purchase chain link fabric, pay attention to the selvage.

The standard selvage is one inch wider than the chain-link fence. Many people purchase this type of chain link fabric, and then they spend the time putting on extra fencing to cover the chain-link fence.

Consider a Bottom Rail

The bottom rail is a horizontal wire mesh used to support the fence and make it more durable. Most people add a bottom rail to their fence to improve the look. The bottom rail will also cut down on the amount of maintenance you need on the fence.

Adding a bottom rail is a very simple task, but it requires that you have a fence at least 6' tall. The bottom rail should extend at least 12 inches from the fence posts.

Barbed Wire

Twisted barbed wire can be single twisted barbed wire or double twisted barbed wire according to the twist type. The materials are usually steel wire and galvanized wire. It also adds additional height security to your fence.

Try Using Buried Mesh

Buried mesh is tough to cut through. It is essentially a fence buried in concrete, making it very difficult to pull out. The installation of buried mesh is a little more involved, but it is significantly more secure. The buried mesh is still available in the same gauges that you would use for a chain-link fence.

The Bottom Line

If you want to improve the security of your chain link fence, these are a few simple things you can do. Make sure you understand your options for fabric, selvage, and bottom rails. A chain link fabric roll is not always the best solution, and you might want to consider a buried mesh fence.

You can also choose to use a better gauge wire and ensure that you have the right selvage and bottom rail. You can also improve the security of your chain link fence by installing a gate or door in it. You will have to make sure that the fence is tall enough to accommodate any door or gate you plan to use. 

Conclusion

The chain-link fence is an essential part of many commercial and industrial projects, but it’s not the most secure type of fence. For those looking to improve the security of their chain link fence, a number of simple tweaks can be made that will help make the fence more secure. From increasing the wire gauge to installing a bottom rail, you can make a chain-link fence that is much harder to exploit.

If you are looking for the best chain link fences, we can help you. Atlantic Fence is a fencing and fence and fence building service provider in Edmonton. We only use premium-grade chain link fence material. You count on us to take of your home’s safety and more. Contact us today to learn more and get started!