Factors That Determine Chain Link Fencing Cost
Chain link fencing has become very popular and common today because of its strength and durability. This fence is a practical way for you to enclose your outdoor space. Not only is it a security measure but also a way to spruce up the look of your home.
If you're looking to use this kind of fencing for your home, you need to know the chain link fencing cost and the factors determining this cost. Below is a detailed description of these factors:
1. Yard size
The size of your yard will factor in the overall chain link fencing price. As the area increases, so does the number of chain link rolls you need. As you calculate the project budget, remember the average cost of chain link fencing per foot used by most contractors is USD$23. You can find the estimate of your project's overall cost by multiplying your yard's linear feet by the unit cost.
If you need a commercial grade security fence, use the USD$33 per foot rate on the upper side, and for a small, simple fence, use the lower side rate of USD$22.
2. Height
The chain link rolls or fabric and metal posts used to support it come in various sizes based on their purposes. If you need to use it in a typical yard, you can get the 4 feet high ones which go at a rate of USD$9 to USD$19 per linear foot.
A taller chain link like the 10-foot commercial chain link is more expensive because it's taller. This is the most expensive one, going from USD$16 to USD$23 per linear foot.
3. Coating
Simple chain links are made of plain galvanized steel with a zinc coating that prevents rusting and corrosion. The higher-end ones come with thick layers of vinyl coating or protective aluminum and can be colored. These types cost you more because of their long life. For the simple ones, the chain link fencing cost per foot runs from USD$10 to USD$17, while the high-end ones at USD$11 to USD$20.
Therefore, depending on the coating, the price of your chain link will be different. If you're considering color as a factor, such as a dark shade, the black chain link fencing cost will be higher than the plain silver ones.
4. Gauge
The gauge is the thickness of the chain link wires, which determines the fencing chain link cost. A lower gauge implies a sturdier fence and thicker wire, so it means higher prices. If you choose a thin 10-gauge chain link, it'll cost you about USD$11 to USD$18 per linear foot, whereas a thick 6 gauge one goes at about USD$16 to USD$23.
5. Post material
The type of post you use in building a chain link determines how much chain link fences cost. You can use metal posts because they blend well with mesh and are cheaper. However, if you need a standout and more appealing look, you can pick the wooden post, which costs more.
The materials, sizes, and lumber that make up wood and metal posts vary, making it hard to settle on a price range. However, the wood posts' price is relatively higher than metal ones.
6. Permits
You may need to acquire the requisite building permits to build your chain link fence. The prices of these permits vary, depending on your location. The permit charges can increase the total chain link fencing installation cost by USD$20 to USD$400.
Therefore, when making your budget, factor in the cost of permits so that you don't fall short or get in trouble with the authorities. The licenses offered for housing complexes, residential homes, or pools vary, so pick the right ones.
7. Slope of land
Depending on the slope of your compound, the cost of labor, time taken, and the number of materials being used differ. This determines the overall cost of chain link fencing. If you have a hilly compound, it takes more work and time to build compared with a flat surface. This increases the project's overall cost.
Further, if your land needs grading before fencing, the contractor will charge for that service, increasing your budget.
Conclusion
Chain link fences are a great way to secure your yard for pets and kids. You can either build it yourself or hire a contractor. Whichever choice you make, the prices are always affordable. However, the factors stated above, such as the height and size of your fence, can cause an increase or drop in prices. Hence, it’s best to know these factors.
References
1. "How to Add Privacy With a Chain Link Fence", Source: https://www.thespruce.com/ways-to-cover-ugly-chainlink-fence-1822368
2. "Colored Chain Link", Source: http://www.qualityfenceco.com/our-products/chain-link/colored-chain-link/
3. "All About Fence Building Permits and Approvals", Source: https://www.thespruce.com/permits-for-fences-1822353