Exterior Fence Builders Chain Link Fence FAQs

Fabric comes in a variety of gauges. Gauge is the diameter of the wire; the higher the gauge number, the smaller the wire diameter. Standard mill diameter tolerance is ±0.005”. Common gauges and diameters are:

• 6 gauge = 0.192”
• 9 gauge = 0.148”
• 11 gauge = 0.120”
• 11 ½ gauge = 0.113”
• 12 gauge = 0.106”
• 12 ½ gauge = 0.099”

Chain link fabric is available in heights of 36”, 42”, 48”, 60”, 72”, 84”, 96”, 120”, and 144”. The fabric is formed by weaving a series of spirals together. The way the top and bottom are finished is called the selvage:

• Fences under 72" use knuckled ends on both sides (KK).
• Fences 72" and taller generally have one twisted/barbed end and one knuckled end (BK).
• High security fences may have both ends twisted or barbed (BB).

Zinc coatings:

• Galvanized After Weaving (G.A.W.): Wire drawn to gauge, woven, then dipped in molten zinc. Applies 1.2 oz zinc/sq ft and meets ASTM standards.
• Galvanized Before Weaving (G.B.W.): Wire dipped in zinc before weaving. Typically 0.8 oz zinc/sq ft or less.

Mesh size is the distance between parallel wires. Common mesh sizes are 2” or 2¼”, but smaller sizes such as 3/8”, 5/8”, 1”, 1¼”, 1½”, and 1¾” are available for higher security.

Quality is determined by wire gauge and zinc coating weight. ASTM designation A 392-96 covers residential and commercial chain link fabric.

Frame work is the tubular steel structure that chain link fabric attaches to, consisting of:

• Top rail
• Line posts (intermediate posts)
• Terminal posts (end, corner, and gate posts set in concrete)

The top rail connects terminal posts and fits through fittings attached to line posts, creating a horizontal frame to support the fabric.

Zinc coatings on tubular steel:

• Hot dip process: Welded pipe dipped in molten zinc coating inside and out.
• Inline flow coat galvanizing: Pipe coated externally with zinc and clear organic coating; interior coated with zinc-rich paint.

Both methods meet ASTM F669-92 standards. Quality depends on steel thickness and zinc coating.

Fittings connect fence components and fall into three types:

• Used along the line of the fence
• Used on terminal posts
• Used with gates

Residential fittings are typically die-cast aluminum or galvanized steel. Industrial and commercial fittings are made of galvanized steel, cast iron, or malleable steel.

Gate fittings are crucial as gates move and see regular contact. Proper fitting prevents gate sagging. For commercial security, barbed wire fittings are added.

Fittings conform to ASTM F 626-96.

Two common types for residential use:

• Single walk gates: For pedestrian access, up to 12’ wide, same height as fence, hinged on one terminal post and latched on another.
• Double drive gates: Two panels that latch in the center, also match fence height.

Both use 1 3/8” diameter tubing. Frame styles include bent frames, aluminum ell corners, and square welded corners. Quality matches the fence.

Automatic closing mechanisms are available for single walk gates.

Commercial gates include:

• Single walk and double drive gates
• Sliding gates: Used where swinging gates aren't practical; roll on pipe tracks. Not recommended in snow/ice regions.
• Cantilever gates: Used in snow/ice areas; suspended by rollers on posts, heavier construction, sliding mechanism.

Sliding gates frame: 1 5/8” or 1 7/8” diameter tubing. Cantilever gates frame: 2 3/8” top/bottom rails on 4” posts.

Barbed wire or barbed tape can be added for security.

Commercial gates are usually welded; gate ells also available.

We offer a full line of gate operators compatible with all gate types.

Exterior Fence Builders offers two color systems:

• Spectra: Ideal for property owners wanting strength and aesthetic blending. Available in forest green, midnight black, and sierra brown. Uses polyvinyl-coated wire over galvanized core (95,000 PSI breaking strength) with 0.15 oz zinc coating and 20 mils polyvinyl.
• Permafused II: For commercial/industrial applications requiring high weather and chemical resistance. Zinc-coated steel wire fused with thermoplastic polymer, available in black and green.

Both systems use high-quality coatings to maintain appearance and durability.

Wood privacy fences offer natural beauty and privacy with several styles available:

• Shadowbox
• Stockade
• Board on Board
• Dog Ear
• Cap & Trim
• Dog Ear Cap & Trim

We use only premium southern yellow pine, kiln dried for better stability. Posts and rails are treated to resist rot and insects. For longevity, regular maintenance such as staining or sealing is recommended.

Wood fences provide excellent privacy but require more maintenance than metal fences.