Chains are used in gates, and even when done around your property in Ottawa, they definitely improve security and privacy. However, similar to any external fitting, your chain link fence will need some care so that you can enjoy maximum durability and a well-groomed look. This article provides information on how to maintain your chain link fence Ottawa as you use it frequently.
Inspect Annually Of Chain Link Fence Ottawa
The first obligation resulting from this guide is that owners should make it a habit to check on their chain link fence at least annually. Make a round of your entire fence perimeter. Check cages for any slipped posts or fittings. Make sure that the top rail is perfectly straight and that the tension wires are still tight. Paying particular attention to areas of the drawing where the fence fabric is loose or protruding is advised. Take down any comments you notice which depict any repair that you think should be done.
Tighten Loose Fittings
From experiences and readings over months and years, it is normal for chain link fence hardware to work loose due to the forces of wind, weather, and soil movement. Annual inspections must involve using a socket wrench to tighten weakened tension bands, rail and line caps, fence post tops, and tension bars. Pull the fabric to prevent it from being loose, and redo the rail and tension wire clips. It avoids additional unwinding and preserves neat dewpoint tension along fences.
Re-Secure Posts
Chain link fence posts are usually installations that tend to loosen up and sag after some time. It means that the fence fabric can droop. If possible, during the annual inspections, look out for any post that is wiggling or leaning. Dig soil around the base of the post by pulling the handle of the post-hole digger to cut through the soil. With the round part flat on the table standing vertically, clamp it in position. Pour concrete mix inside the hole to make the fixing of the post secured again. It is advised that it should harden fully before putting stress on the fence fabric.
Patch Holes
Older chain link fence fabric can wear down and develop holes over time due to age or other factors. It is a result of corrosion and animals applying pressure on it. Look hard for small holes starting to develop as a preliminary to bursting. It covers these as soon as possible with metal epoxy adhesive so that they do not expand. For bigger holes, one has to remove the affected part of the fabric. Then, using the wire cutters, cut off links on each side in order to give a clean look. Place a piece of cloth a few inches larger than the hole. Bend the patch with overlapping metal links with the help of metal clip pliers. Commence Fence recommends this approach to keep your fence in good shape.
Look for Rust
Look at the various components of the chain link fence for signs of rust at least once or twice a year. Rust means the zinc-based protective galvanization layer is decaying. To remove rust, gently sand the affected areas with a rag and 80-grit sandpaper. Discharge and utilize two layers of zinc-rich galvanizing paint as a guard. One only needs to take some preventive measures to stop the rust from progressing to worse levels in your chain link fence Ottawa setup.
Trim Vegetation
Trees and other plant growth can also apply pressure and bend the chain links, causing the wire to deform by stretching it. This type of mechanical damage is prevented by trimming back vegetation. During the spring and fall seasons, aim to clear at least 12” between the fence wires and the related plants. Trim the trees in your compound so that their branches do not droop over the fence. You can curb the growth of these weeds by applying herbicide to the under vegetation annually or biannually.
Restore Coating
Weather factors may cause the galvanized coat on chain link fences to peel off over time. You can restore this protective zinc barrier by washing the fence wires in vinegar and then rinsing them to maintain efficient performance. Once dry, use a paint pad or spray system to paint the galvanized fence paint to apply two coats. It will furthermore allow protection against corrosion as well as rust formation in the future.
Conclusion
Practicing the above simple chain link fence maintenance yearly and any time you notice problems will help keep your fence in good condition. It’s the best way to allow a test’s security, privacy, and long-lasting appearance. Give a few hours of your time every once in a while to maintain your wise investment in the chain link fence Ottawa. Maintaining it that way pays you back with a straight, taut wall that serves as it was designed for every year.
Contact Commence Fence today for reliable chain link fence repairs!