Chain link fencing

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A chain link fence.

A chain link fence is a type of woven fence usually made from galvanized or LLDPE coated steel wire. The wires run vertically and are bent into a zig-zag pattern so that each "zig" hooks with the wire immediately on one side and each "zag" with the wire immediately on the other. This forms the characteristic diamond pattern seen in this type of fence.

In the United States, fencing usually comes in 20 rod and 100 ft rolls which can be joined by "unscrewing" one of the end wires and then "screwing" it back in so that it hooks both pieces. Common heights include 3 ft, 3 ft 6 in, 4 ft, 5 ft, 6 ft, 7 ft, 8 ft, 10 ft, and 12 ft, though almost any height is possible. Common mesh gauges are 9, 11, and 11.5.

The popularity of chain link fence is due to its relatively low cost and ease of installation. A further advantage is that due to the open weave, chain link fences are transparent, and do not obscure sunlight from either side of the fence. If a semi-opaque fence is desired, this can be achieved by the insertion of slats into the mesh.

The installation of chain link fence involves setting posts into the ground and attaching the fence to them. The posts may comprise steel tubing, timber or concrete and may be driven into the ground or set in concrete. End (terminal) posts must either be set in concrete or ancored to prevent leaning under the tension of a stretched fence. After the end posts are set, line posts are driven in equally spaced at intervals of 2.5-3.0m. The fence is then attached at one end, stretched, and attached at the other; the excess being easily removed by "unscrewing" a wire. Finally it is tied to the line posts with aluminum wire.