Archive for the ‘Chainlink’ Category

So Troy Ornamental Iron & Fence is known for doing Residential Work, but we also do Commercial Fences and Gates in the tri county area.  Fencing in Michigan is very important in commercial and residential areas.  This is a photo of a commercial job we did in the City of Detroit.  No matter what material we using whether it be iron gates or black vinyl coated chain link gates it always has a nice professional look.  You can check out our website at www.troyfence.com

All chain-link fences aren’t the same

Chain-link has four elements: fabric, framework, fittings and gates. How you combine them makes all the difference. Each of these components are available in a range of weights (gauges) and types of protective coatings. Providers can mix and match components in an effort to shave costs or differentiate their product. My minimum recommendations will typically follow the minimum practices defined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The most common coating is zinc (galvanized), but you’ll also find chain-link components with vinyl or polyester color coatings in addition to zinc. These color treatments enhance landscaping and blend naturally with trees, shrubs and bushes. They’ll also give you even more protection against corrosion or rust.

Some just can’t handle residential wear and tear

A light chain-link system can’t take much abuse. The framework may bend easily, the fabric may distort and animals may easily damage it. Even common occurrences, such as a person climbing or sitting on the fence, heavy wind blowing debris against it or a dog jumping on it may cause damage. Inferior coatings may also allow the components to rust prematurely. Fence manufacturers make products for many different uses, including lightweight, temporary needs. Consumers sometimes buy fencing like this because of its lower price, or because they don’t understand that all fencing is not the same. The result – a “permanent installation” made from materials that weren’t designed for longevity.

Color can complement your surroundings

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyester color coatings can supplement the metallic protective coatings described above. You’ll gain an additional defense against corrosion, and add aesthetics to blend with the environment. Standard colors are black, brown and green. There are two primary methods of coating that I recommend both of which require sound process controls to ensure that the material is properly prepared to receive the coating:

• PVC is applied to the framework in a thickness of 10 to 14 mils – referred to as a heavy mil coating (visualize a rubber-like coating).
• Polyester coating is a 3-mil color powder that is electro-statically applied.

Both products, properly applied, will provide good results; however, the trend is increasingly toward the polyester product. Most manufacturers will warrant the product for 10-15 years. I don’t recommend painting the framework. You might save a few dollars now, but continued maintenance will likely cost you more in the long run. If you want color, PVC is the way to go.