There are many different types of fences, but the two most common types that homeowners should consider are chain link fencing and ornamental steel fencing. But which one is right for you? Neither is right or wrong, it all depends on your needs and budget.
Both chain link and ornamental steel fencing offer a lot of choices, but it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks to each. Read on to find out the topics you should consider before making your fence purchase.
Chain link fencing:
Chain link fencing is a versatile fence option that comes in a number of styles , including wood slats or regular galvanized metal sheets. The standard height for chain link fence is 8 feet, but there are many options available at higher heights . The number of materials and styles is also growing, including options that blend with your landscape . In addition, there are a variety of custom options available, such as corner posts and posts with caps.
Ornamental fencing:
Ornamental steel fencing is a premium product that comes in a variety of styles, including solid panels or decorative molding (much like the picket fences commonly found in front yards).
Chain link fences pros and cons:
Pros: Chain link fences are economical, lightweight, sturdy and easy to install . They can be used for residential or commercial purposes, such as for enclosing an entire lot or for defining an area of a parking lot. Chain link fences are also one of the most versatile fences available . Their flexibility allows you to customize them to fit your specific needs and taste.
Cons: Chain link fences can be difficult to maintain , requiring frequent power washing and painting , which can be costly. They also require a lot of maintenance, including regular cleaning, painting and sometimes a little bit of repair work.
Ornamental steel fences pros and cons:
Pros: Ornamental steel fencing is long-lasting, low-maintenance and aesthetically pleasing . Because it is made of steel, it doesn’t need to be painted or maintained as you would a chain link fence. It can be installed onsite or in a home center and professional installation is easy with many different styles to choose from.
Cons: Ornamental steel fences are quite expensive compared to chain link fences and should only be used for high-end residential or commercial projects.
Chain link fence vs Ornamental fence:
Chain link fence has proven to be popular among homeowners because it is both durable and cost-effective. Ornamental steel fences are very similar in their durability, but they tend to be more expensive than chain link fences.
Though these two kinds of fencing offer many of the same benefits, there are key differences between them that can help you decide which one is right for your purposes.
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Cost
Fences are fairly inexpensive and are generally composed of much smaller pieces of steel than ornamental steel fences, so they’re cost-effective for many homeowners. In addition, chain link fences come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your home’s design.
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Color and style
In addition to being more affordable, chain fence is also available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and colors. Ornamental steel fencing is more expensive than chain link fencing, so it’s available in fewer styles and colors.
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Maintenance
Both materials are durable and require few repairs, but ornamental steel requires more frequent cleaning than fences because of its finish. It is also important to note that if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, ornamental steel fences may not be the best choice for your home’s exterior. This material can be both imposing and stylish but tends to cost more than traditional chain link fencing.
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Height
Chain fencing comes in a variety of heights, but ornamental steel fences are available only in one or two heights, with the exception of pergolas. This may make it more difficult to match the height of your fence with that of adjoining structures. In addition, ornamental steel fences are more likely to be shorter than chain link fences, so you may need to shorten the length of some sections if the fence you want accommodates your needs.
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Privacy
One advantage to ornamental steel fences is that they add privacy to the exterior of your home, especially if you choose to install solid gate panels. Chain fencing, on the other hand, do not offer the same degree of privacy. If you want more privacy from passersby and neighbors, a better option might be to plant a row of trees along your property line.
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Durability
If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, ornamental steel fences are better suited to exterior use because they’re usually made of thicker material. They also tend to be more expensive than chain link fences, but they last longer and require less maintenance. Chain fencing require little or no maintenance and are often available in shorter lengths than ornamental steel fences. However, they are not quite as durable as ornamental steel fencing and can be a bit more expensive.
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Maintenance-free
While chain fence is maintenance-free, ornamental steel fencing requires regular cleaning to keep the finish looking fresh and new. Ornamental steel fences are also more expensive, and they are not as durable as chain link fences.
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Height
Chain fencing comes in a variety of heights, but ornamental steel fences are available only in one or two heights, with the exception of pergolas. This may make it more difficult to match the height of your fence with that of adjoining structures. In addition, ornamental steel fences are more likely to be shorter than chain fences, so you may need to shorten the length of some sections if the fence you want accommodates your needs.
Final verdict:
Both chain link and ornamental fences are good options for fencing. Choosing depends on many factors. If you want to opt between both, you need to consider the above mentioned factors. These factors will help you choose better. Both chain link and ornamental fence are good options for fencing. Choosing depends on many factors. If you want to opt between both, you need to consider the above mentioned factors. These factors will help you choose better.