Chain link is a fantastic option for families wanting practicality and durability in their fence. Chain link fences are perfect for defining property lines, keeping pets and children in, and unwanted visitors out! If you choose to invest in a new chain link fence, there are some things that you can do to keep it looking nice and functioning properly for a longer period of time. While chain link is considered a low maintenance option, there are still some things that you can do to minimize rusting and other potential problems.
Apply Rust Protection Yearly
One of the biggest problems you might face with a chain link fence is rust. You can do a lot to prevent this by spraying down your chain link fence yearly with a rust-resistant coating. This is especially helpful along the ground where moisture collects in the grass and dirt. Take a close look at your chain link every so often to see if there is any rust beginning. Rusty spots left unrepaired could lead to holes or weak spots in your chain link.
Clean Your Fence Regularly
Have you ever considered cleaning your chain link fence? It isn’t hard to do and really helps to keep your fence sparkling! Grab a hose and a spray nozzle. Hose down your fence on a higher pressure setting to remove dirt and debris. If you have stubborn dirt spots or bird feces to remove, use a brush with dish soap to scrub a little before rinsing.
Avoid Growing Plants in Your Chain Link
Maybe you are the type of person that loves to grow vines and plants along your house or in your garden. Or perhaps you are the type of person that doesn’t enjoy plants or yard work at all and leaves nature to take its course. Whether it’s intentional or not, don’t allow plants to grow up into your chain link fence. Plants growing up into the chain link can lift it up on the bottom (bending it) or burst through the links and damage them.
Make Repairs as Needed
Be willing to watch for damage and make any necessary repairs! Areas that are more likely to break down first are connections to posts. If the fence is pulled on (by pets or other animals) or climbed over, connections can loosen and allow the chain link to break away. If your gates are sagging or dragging on the ground, be sure to tighten the hinges and make sure there are no missing bolts. If you are still having problems, call a fence contractor to help you with repairs!
Resist Climbing on Chain Link
It may seem silly to say, but don’t climb on your chain link fence or be tempted to jump over it rather than using the gate. Climbing on the chain link can loosen or bend your posts. Additionally, the weight from climbing could cause the chain link to break away from the posts and damage sections of your fence. Keep children and pets from climbing on the chain link and keep objects away that could assist them in climbing (cinder blocks, ladders, wood etc.).
Chain link fence will last for decades if proper care is taken. If you need a new chain link fence or some simple repairs, give us or another fence contractor a call!
