Fence For Sale Clearwater, St.Petersburg, Tampa, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Largo Florida

Chain Link Fencing Grades

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  Chain link fencing is categorized by the materials coating and it's "grade", which is determined by the thickness of the wire fabric and the diameter and wall thickness of the supporting framework.

Galvanized Steel: The traditional "silver" fence, coated in zinc to prevent rust. It is highly cost-effective and lasts 15 - 30 years.

Vinyl (PVC) Coated*: A galvanized steel core wrapped in a colored polymer (most commonly black, green or brown).  It offers better corrosion resistance, especially in our coastal or humid area. It lasts 15 - 30+ years.

*Note: Vinyl coated chain link contains a metal core that is one size smaller than it's stated gauge. Example, 9 gauge vinyl coated fence fabric has 11 1/2 gauge metal core surrounded with vinyl, making the finial wire thickness 9 gauge. 6 gauge vinyl coated chain link has a 9 gauge metal wire core.

Exotic Chain Link Materials

Aluminized Steel: Steel wire fabric coated with aluminum rather than zinc. It is more resistant to salt and chemical spray, making it ideal for coastal environments or roadways.

Stainless Steel: The most durable and expensive option. It is resistant to acids, alkalis and high temperatures. Often used at airports or for high-security industrial enclosures.

Grades and Their Applications

The "gauge" indicates wire thickness; lower numbers represent thicker, stronger wire.

Grade Residential: Wire Gauge, 11.5 to 12.5 - Frame Strength, .065 wall tubing - Typical Applications, Backyards, marking property lines.

Grade Commercial: Wire Gauge, 9 to 11 - Frame Strength - .065 & SS20 (20 weight) pipe - Typical Applications, Schools, public parks, apartment complexes and standard business perimeters.

Grade Industrial: Wire Gauge, 6 to 9 - Frame Strength, SS40 (40 weight)  - Typical Applications, High security facilities, factories, prisons and baseball backstops.

Specialty Mesh Types

Mini-Mesh: Fencing fabric woven with tiny diamond shaped openings (as small as 3/8 inch) designed to be "No climb", very difficult for tools to penetrate. typically used for high security or pool safety.

Tennis Court Mesh: Typically 1.75 or 2 inch diamond mesh to prevent tennis balls from getting stuck or passing through.

Temporary Panels: Pre-assembled 6 foot tall panels used for construction sites or events where portability is required.

Pros and Cons of Chain Link Fence

Chain link fence is the "workhorse" of the industry. in 2026, it remains the most popular choice large perimeters, pet containment and commercial security in the Tampa Bay area due to it's unmatched cost to strength ratio.

Pros of Chain Link Fencing

• Lowest Initial Costs: It is the most budget friendly fencing option.in 2026, chain link fencing typically costs between $15 - $30 per linear foot installed, making it ideal large yards in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties.

• Extreme Durability: Made of galvanized steel, it is nearly indestructible. It won't rot like wood and it is far more impact resistant than vinyl or aluminum fencing.

• Low Maintenance: Beyond the occasional spray with a hose, it requires almost zero upkeep. It doesn't need staining, painting or sealing.

• High Visibility: The open-weave design allows you to see through the fence. This is a major "pro" for homeowners who want to keep an eye on pets or kids without blocking a nice view of the Florida landscape.

• Wind Resistance: Because it i "open" wind passes right through it. In high velocity hurricane zones like Pinellas county, this makes it less likely to be blown over than a solid panel privacy fence.

• Faster Installation; Chain link fence can be installed significantly faster than wood or other panel fences which can lower the labor costs.

• Cons of Chain Link Fencing

• Zero Privacy: by itself, chain link offers no visual barrier. to get a measure of privacy, you must add privacy slats or fabric wind screen which increases the costs and makes the fence more susceptible to wind damage.

• Industrial Aesthetic: Many homeowners (and some cities & HOAs) find the look of galvanized chain link too "utilitarian" or "commercial" for high end residential areas.

• Tip: Choosing Black vinyl coated chain link (as we discussed in the chain link "types" section) solves this in some circumstances as it blends into the surrounding environment and looks much cleaner.

• Climbability: the diamond mesh easy foot hold for children and intruders.

• Property Value: While it's functional, it generally does not add as much to a homes "curb appeal" or resale value as ornamental or vinyl fences.

• Risk of Corrosion (lower grades): lower grade chain link fence in or near the salt water area in our gulf, can eventually  corrode chain link and it's components away.

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