While there are many different types of fences available, chain link fences are a durable and versatile choice that requires relatively little maintenance. To support the longevity of their fences, property owners often complete routine fence care and monitor their fences for repair needs. Regarding chain link fences, people may wonder about the following:
- Common chain link fence repairs
- Tips for completing these repairs
- When to take a DIY approach or choose professional chain link fence repairs
Keep reading to learn more about common chain link fence repairs and what to consider in deciding whether or not to do them yourself!
6 Common Chain Link Fence Repairs
As one of the more durable, affordable and low-maintenance fencing options, many people choose to install a chain link fence on their property. Due to general wear and tear, weather-related damage and other factors, chain link fence repairs may be needed over the course of a fence’s lifespan. Here are six common chain link fence repair needs and how to fix them:
- Rust: One problem that may impact chain link fences is rust. Chain link fences that are made of galvanized steel or that have special coatings have additional protection against rust and other corrosion. However, wear over time or damage to a fence can compromise its rust-resistance. Fortunately, it’s possible to restore a rusting fence. Additionally, regularly cleaning the fence and managing any shrubs, flowers or other vegetation in the area further helps reduce the potential for rust and other moisture-related deterioration.
- Gapping between fence and ground: Even with professional fence installation, gaps may appear under chain link fencing over time due to various reasons, such as soil erosion. As shared at Outward Hound, your dog may also create these gaps, since your pet may dig around a fence for entertainment, attention or access to a neighboring dog or wild animals. In addition to impacting appearance, gaps underneath fencing can compromise its purpose and result in other issues, like water damage. There are multiple ways to address this chain link fence repair strategy, such as adding more chain link mesh or replacing the dirt.
- Loose or missing components: Fence and gate hardware may become loose or fall out altogether. Hardware that hasn’t been secured or is missing can jeopardize the fence’s overall stability. Regular fence inspection can help reveal these problems as they arise. Then, instead of having major structural concerns, this chain link fence repair may be as quick and easy as tightening the nuts or fence ties.
- Sagging fence mesh: This chain link fence repair need can stem from causes such as missing or loose fence ties and tension wires or issues with post stability. In some scenarios, replacing the ties may be enough. If the sagging is more severe or the result of multiple structural issues, a partial or full fence replacement may be needed.
- Holes in fencing: As with gaps underneath the fence, holes in the fence fabric also impact its appearance and integrity. In addition to some other potential chain link fence repairs, such as replacing a damaged post or fixing a bent top rail in your fence, This Old House explains how to attach a patch. If there are multiple holes in the fence, consider replacing the section in full.
- Privacy slat damage: Another common chain link fence repair involves privacy slats. While you may opt to change out these slats for aesthetic reasons, they can also be replaced if they become cracked or faded due to sun and weather exposure. If you are considering the addition of these slats, you may also opt for selections that offer increased UV resistance.
DIY v. Professional Chain Link Fence Repair
While fence repair assessment is an important DIY task for property owners, professional evaluation and chain link fence repair may be needed or preferred. For example, if you’ve already tried some simple DIY chain link fence repairs and they haven’t resolved the problems, it’s time to contact the fencing expert near you, like Orange Fence. For residents and business owners who don’t have the time, the tools or the expertise to handle some of the more labor-intensive chain link fence repairs, working with a professional fencing repair company often means a faster fix and greater peace of mind regarding the functionality and longevity of your fence. At Orange Fence, we offer DIY materials and hardware as needed for chain link fence repairs or new installations in addition to our expertise. However, we are also here to deliver skilled fencing repairs and other services to help ensure the safety of your fence and its ability to serve its intended purpose.
With over 95 years of experience in the fencing industry, Orange Fence is here to assist residents and business owners in Connecticut with their fencing needs. For chain link fence repairs, arbor installations, security fences and more, contact our team with any questions or for a free estimate today!
