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A chain-link fence or wire netting or chain-wire 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.
Sizes and uses
In the United States, fencing usually comes in 20 rod and 50 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. For tennis courts and ball parks the most popular height is 9 ft (2.75 m).
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.
Installation
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 posts, or terminal posts, must either be set in concrete or anchored 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.
Chain-link fences are also called Cyclone or Hurricane Fences.
Development of chain link fencing
In the United Kingdom the firm of Barnard, Bishop & Barnard was established in Norwich to produce chain-link fencing by machine. The process was developed by Charles Barnard in 1844 based on cloth weaving machines (Up until that time Norwich had a long history of cloth manufacture). [1]
Anchor Fence (established in 1891) was the first US company to manufacture chain-link fencing by machines using equipment imported from Belgium.
Chain-link fence recommendations
- An optional tubular top rail to help prevent bending of wire tops
- Setting line posts in concrete every 10 feet.
- Fasten fence to end posts using tension bands and tension bars.
- Bottom wire to deter animal digging and pushing
- Stretch fence and wire with a ratcheting tension tool (comealong).
- Use a post pounder or driving cap to help prevent deforming of post tops.
See also
Notable uses
External links
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