When choosing chain link fencing for your home or business, you’ll need to consider galvanized and vinyl-coated options. Both coatings add durability to your fence but knowing the difference between the two can help you choose the best one for your project.
Galvanized Chain Link
Chain link fencing is made from steel, which is susceptible to rust and corrosion. So, chain link manufacturers galvanize the steel with a coating made from another corrosion-resistant metal, typically zinc. The fence’s steel mesh is dipped in molten zinc, which protects the steel from weather and wear. A galvanized chain link fence can last 20 years or more.
Manufacturers can also cover chain link fencing with aluminum, a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material. Aluminized fences have a smoother coating than zinc.
Galvanized chain link fences are long lasting because they’re protected from the corrosive effects of water, snow, wind, sun and pollution.
Vinyl-Coated Chain Link
Vinyl-coated chain link fencing is also galvanized. However, it has the added protection of a layer of flexible plastic polymer material over the mesh. Vinyl-coated chain link is an excellent choice for humid climates or coastal areas where sea spray can corrode the metal.
The main advantage of vinyl-coated chain link fencing is that you can choose from various colours to match your home, business or landscape. For example, a green vinyl-coated chain link fence is an excellent choice for a garden because the green will blend into the environment, and you won’t notice it as much.
You can also purchase coloured fittings to complement your vinyl-coated mesh, including posts, caps, tension bars, gate clips and hinges.
What Matters Most For Choosing a Fence Material
If you’re not bothered about the visual appeal of your fence – for example, on a construction site or sports field – you should probably choose a galvanized chain link fence. It’s still durable but less expensive than vinyl-coated chain link mesh.
However, if you’re concerned about how attractive your fence is — around your home or commercial business, for example —consider a vinyl-coated chain link fence. You can choose a desirable colour, plus the vinyl coating gives you extra longevity against wet conditions and salt spray.
Chain Link Fence Installation in Edmonton
At Duraguard Fence Ltd., we manufacture, supply, install and repair chain link fence systems in Alberta from our locations in Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Bonnyville and Fort McMurray. We offer galvanized and vinyl-coated fences for commercial and residential properties. Contact us today to learn more and get a free estimate on a chain link fence.