Chain Link

What are the desired qualities of residential chain link fabric?

• Mesh Size determines the spacing between parallel wires in chain link fabric and, through that, the amount of steel in the product. In other words: the wider the “diamonds” in the mesh, the less steel the fabric contains, and vice versa. For residential fencing, Blackfoot recommends nothing less than 2 3/8” mesh, though there are many sizes available.

• Wire Gauge (ga.) or diameter also determines the amount of steel in the fabric. Smaller gauge numbers indicate higher steel content and wire strength. For residential fencing in Pa, we recommend nothing less than 11½ gauge chain link.

• Core wire coating comes in three types:

  • GBW (Galvanized Before Weaving) provides a smooth, consistent coating, popular for yards and sports venues.

  • Galvanized After Weaving (GAW) is submerged in hot melted zinc after the weaving process. Tends to leave nubs caused by dripping zinc. The speed at which the zinc is dipped and then removed determines the coating’s weight.

  • Aluminum Coating is applied before the weaving process begins and yields a dull finish.

• Vinyl Coating Over Finished Core Wire comes in three types:

  • Class 1 Extruded. The vinyl coating is pulled over the core in the manner of a sock. Thicker and not easily torn or peeled.

  • Class 2A Extruded and Bonded. Thinner coating attached to wire by use of glue. Greatly reduces the likelihood of tearing and peeling.

  • Class 2B Fused and Bonded. Defined by popularity with engineers and architects. While boasting the thinner coating type for chain link fencing, it is also the strongest in terms of resistance to cracks, peels, and tears. Bound and fused in the manner of steel welding.