You can understand why we think chainwire fencing is wonderful stuff. Put together with through a mechanised industrial process, the fencing simply does what it is intended to do, and does it economically with little need for fuss or maintenance.
Chainwire fencing can be installed in a number of applications because it is flexible and rather lightweight in comparison to the alternatives. It is simple to install for those who are used to working with it, and once it is installed it will give years of trouble free service to the property owner.
Dull Grey
For all of its virtues, we have to admit that chainwire fencing is not the most attractive stuff in the world. The straight lines and angles do not blend well into every environment. Because they require so little maintenance, they are often neglected, which may result in rusting and damaged fences. Probably the worst aesthetic is the colour of chainwire fencing.
The stark grey of chainwire fencing reminds us of cold industrialism. The grey comes from the galvanised coating of the metal. Before weaving, the wire that will make up the chainwire fence fabric is run through a bath of molten zinc. The hot zinc clings to the wire, and when it is exposed to the atmosphere, zinc oxide is formed. The zinc oxide combines with carbon dioxide to form zinc carbonate, a very tough, corrosion resistant coating. The other components of the fence, the posts, the straps, and the hardware, are typically galvanised as well. While galvanising protects the metal, we are stuck with that unattractive grey.
Colourful Powder-coating
Powder-coating is a colourful alternative to dull grey galvanising. The result is metal encased in plastic which is not only more attractive than galvanised, but better protected as well. Powder-coating can be done after galvanising, allowing a double protective layer to the metal in your fence.
Although it is colourful and attractive, powder-coating should not be confused with painting. When metal is powder-coated, it is first electrically charged. Next it is sprayed with a fine powder of PVC plastic. Because the metal and the powder are charged oppositely, the powder clings to the metal. The loosely coated piece is then heated, causing the plastic powder to melt and flow into the pores in the surface. This results in a very durable coating.
No one is claiming that a powder coated fence will last forever. Most manufacturers are willing to stand behind their products for twenty years however, and for the whole time you will be able to enjoy a fence that isn’t grey!
