Fort Smith Fence Pros takes requests for chain link fence installation in Fort Smith, AR and passes them to an independent local contractor who handles residential yards, side lots and light commercial work.
Chain link is the practical fence. It keeps dogs and kids in, marks a boundary, goes up fast and costs less per foot than most alternatives. The differences between a fence that sags in five years and one that stays tight come down to wire gauge, framework, coating and how the terminal posts are set.
Galvanized vs Vinyl-Coated Chain Link Fencing
Galvanized
Zinc-coated steel is the standard silver chain link. It costs least and resists rust for years, though it can dull and eventually show corrosion in spots that stay wet.
Black or green vinyl-coated
A bonded vinyl or polymer coating over galvanized wire adds rust protection and blends into landscaping. Black chain link around a backyard is far less noticeable than silver, which is why it has become a common upgrade.
Wire Gauge, Mesh Size and Framework
Gauge is the thickness of the wire. Lower numbers mean heavier wire, so 9 gauge is stronger than 11 or 11.5 gauge. For a family yard with large dogs, heavier wire and a top rail are worth it.
- Terminal posts: corners, ends and gate posts carry the tension and need larger posts set deeper in concrete.
- Line posts: spacing affects how well the fabric stays tight.
- Bottom tension wire: keeps the bottom from being pushed out by dogs digging or leaning.
Chain Link Options for Pets, Privacy and Security
- Dog runs and kennels: smaller mesh and a tension wire or buried edge to discourage digging.
- Privacy slats: inserted strips block much of the view at a fraction of the cost of a solid fence.
- Security: taller fabric and barbed or angled extension arms for commercial lots, where local rules allow it.
- Gates: walk gates, double drive gates and rolling gates for wide openings.
Chain Link in Flood-Prone and Low-Lying Yards
Open mesh lets water and debris move through instead of pushing against a solid wall. That matters near creeks and low ground. During the May 2019 Arkansas River flood, the Encyclopedia of Arkansas reports about 545 homes in Sebastian County were affected and Massard Creek backed up as the river rose. If your yard holds water after storms, ask about extra post depth, galvanized hardware and a gap at the bottom so debris does not pile up.
Typical Chain Link Fence Costs and What Moves the Price
Angi lists chain link at a typical range of about $8 to $40 per linear foot installed, making it one of the lower cost fence types. These figures are national estimates that vary by yard and layout. Price goes up with height, heavier gauge, vinyl coating, privacy slats, more gates and rocky or sloped ground. In the Belle Grove Historic District, the city's application form lists removal of chain link as minor work but does not list installing it, so check with the city before planning new chain link there.
Common questions
How long does a chain link fence last?
A well-built galvanized chain link fence commonly lasts for decades, and vinyl-coated fabric adds another layer of rust protection. The weak points are usually gates and terminal posts, not the wire itself. Keeping vines off the fabric, tightening loose ties and fixing a sagging gate early help it stay in good shape.
Is black chain link more expensive than galvanized?
Yes, vinyl-coated chain link usually costs more than plain galvanized for the same height and gauge because the coated fabric, posts and fittings cost more. Many homeowners feel the difference is worth it for a backyard, since black fencing fades into the landscape. Request a free estimate to compare both on your footage.
Can chain link keep a large dog in?
Usually, if it is built for it. A 5 or 6 foot fence with heavier gauge wire, a top rail and a bottom tension wire stops most large dogs from climbing over or pushing under. Dogs that dig may need a buried wire edge or concrete strip along the base. Tell your contractor about your dog's habits.
Can I add privacy to an existing chain link fence?
Privacy slats can be woven into most existing chain link if the fabric is in decent shape and the mesh size matches the slats. Adding them increases wind load, so loose posts may need attention first. Slats come in several colors and block much, though not all, of the view through the fence.