Choosing the right fence grade can make all the difference.
When constructing a chain link fence, it is important to be familiar with fence grades and their differences so you can make an informed decision. Have you been thinking of a new fence for your home or business? There are many different fence grades for both framework and the chain link material, allowing for nearly limitless customization of your chain link fence.
RESIDENTIAL GRADE FRAMEWORK
Professionally installed residential grade fences tend to have thicker tubing and are slightly more expensive than the grades found in DIY hardware stores, but will also be of a higher quality and last longer. This fence grade is suitable for light duty purposes.
RESIDENTIAL CHAIN LINK FABRIC/MESH/WIRE
DIY stores have higher gauge wire than professionals, but the smaller gauge is actually stronger and works better with galvanized coating. Thicker gauge wiring is also more susceptible to rusting, since it needs to be dipped longer in zinc. As with residential grade fences above, the slight savings in cost with going DIY isn’t worth it.
LIGHT COMMERCIAL GRADE FRAMEWORK
HF20 framework is a good fence grade for light commercial uses and heavier duty residential use. It is 30% stronger and 20% lighter than the standard mill structural pipe used for lighter residential purposes, though this mill structural pipe may be used if you need to construct a longer fence, or are on a budget, as utilizing this weaker pipe usually saves around 10%.
LIGHT COMMERCIAL CHAIN LINK FABRIC/MESH/WIRE
The gauge of the wire for light commercial use is smaller still than the wire used for residential use, making this wire stronger and more weather-resistant. The quality of this fencing is comparable to the fencing you would see at airports and other public facilities.
COMMERCIAL GRADE FRAMEWORK
The heaviest duty fences require the heaviest duty fence grade. A commercial quality fence will usually utilize HF40 framework, which is stronger and lighter than HF20 and mill structural pipe. This framework is highly recommended for municipal/city projects as well as baseball/softball field fences and backstops. For the chain link fabric/mesh/wire, use the same gauge wire you would use for light commercial purposes, as this is usually sufficient even for heavy usage.
Ready to pick the right fence grade for your new fence?
Hercules Fence DC has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. Contact us to see how a fence can increase your property value by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
