Which Gauge Chain Link Fence Should I Choose?
Ready to invest in a long-lasting, appealing new fence? You can’t go wrong with chain link—not only are these fences durable and resilient, but they also require little to no maintenance to stay looking their best for years to come. But which gauge of chain link is right for your property? Here’s how to determine which gauge chain link fence you should pick for your property.
What Is a Chain Link Fence Gauge
The gauge of a chain link fence refers to wire thickness, and there are benefits to choosing a thicker wire for a new fence. Not only does thicker wire make a chain link fence stronger and more stable, but it also makes it harder for unauthorized people to gain entry to your property. In general, the higher the number of the gauge, the thinner the wire, so fences that use wire with a low-number gauge are the strongest.
The most common gauges for a chain link fence include:
- 6 Gauge: .192”
- 9 Gauge: .148”
- 11 Gauge: .12”
- 11½ Gauge: .113”
Most residential and commercial fences are made from a 9-gauge chain link with a 2-inch diamond pattern. Temporary fences often are made from thinner 11- or 11½-gauge wire. If you’re fencing a high-security property, a 6 gauge works best, while a 9 gauge works perfectly fine if you’re fencing a typical home.
How to Make a Chain Link Fence Stronger
If you’re investing in a new fence, you want it to last as long as possible. Luckily, there are some easy ways to make your new chain link fence stronger, regardless of the gauge thickness you choose for your project. Improve the strength of your new fence by:
- Adding stakes or rails to the bottom. The bottom of a typical chain link fence is the most susceptible to damage, especially from animals. You could add stakes to bridge the gap between the bottom of the fence and the ground, or you can install rails to provide extra support to the back of the fence.
- Select the right selvage. Chain link fence material can be woven with a variety of selvage options. For most residential and commercial projects, you’ll want a fence with knuckle-knuckle selvage, where the ends of the wire are bent completely with no sharp ends. Security fences often have knuckle-barb or barb-barb selvages. When installed correctly, this adds security along the top—and sometimes the bottom—fence rails.
- Upgrade with a coating. You can make your chain link fence even more weather resistant by investing in a water-resistant coating for your new fence. This inexpensive yet effective upgrade will keep your new fence safe from corrosion and rust for years to come.
Need Help Finding the Right Gauge for Your Chain Link Fence?
Chain link fences require little to no maintenance while providing exceptional security for both residential and commercial properties. With customizable coatings, you can even adjust the look of your fence to match your property. While common chain link gauges range from 13 down to 6, there are certain situations where a thicker gauge works best.
Need help determining the right gauge for your project? Reach out to the fencing experts at American Wholesale Fenceworks – Apollo Beach today at (813) 556-9399. We’re ready to help you start your fencing project!
