Chain Link Fence Installation in Jersey City, NJ

Chain link fence installation is the budget choice for enclosing a yard, and it earns that place. Per foot, it usually costs less than any wood, vinyl or metal picket fence, it lasts for decades with almost no upkeep, and it keeps dogs and small children in without blocking light or the view. Around Jersey City, chain link is common along rear lot lines, alleys, side lots and driveways.

Galvanized or vinyl-coated

Galvanized chain link is the familiar silver fence; the zinc coating protects the steel from rust. Vinyl-coated chain link, most often black or green, adds a bonded PVC layer over the galvanized wire. It costs more but looks much less industrial, blends into plantings, and gives an extra layer of protection against corrosion, which helps on blocks near the waterfront. The posts, rails and fittings can be coated to match.

Where chain link is allowed

Jersey City's zoning code regulates fence materials by location, and front yards get the closest review, so check with the Division of Zoning before planning chain link anywhere visible from the street. Behind the house, along alleys and on side lots, chain link is a common choice. We confirm the rules for your lot and handle zoning approval.

How a chain link fence is built

A chain link fence is only as good as its terminal posts, the heavier posts at the ends, corners and gates. Those posts carry the tension of the stretched fabric, so we set them deeper and in concrete. Line posts go between them at regular spacing. A top rail, and often a bottom tension wire, keeps the fabric from bowing or being pushed up by a dog. The fabric is stretched tight with a come-along before it is tied off, which is what keeps a chain link fence from sagging after a few years.

Options

• Heights: 4 feet for a typical backyard, 5 or 6 feet for larger dogs or more security, within zoning limits.
• Gauge: heavier wire for more strength and a longer life.
• Mesh size: smaller openings are harder to climb and better for small dogs.
• Gates: single walk gates, or double drive gates across a driveway or alley.

Replacing an old chain link fence

Many Jersey City yards have chain link that is decades old, with rusted fabric, bent top rails or posts leaning from frost and roots. Sometimes the posts are sound and only the fabric and rails need replacement, which costs less than starting over. We check the posts at the estimate and tell you which approach makes sense.

Before digging

Post holes for chain link are smaller than for wood, but they still count as excavation. State law requires an 811 mark-out at least three business days before digging, and we request it before every installation.