Chain Wire Fencing: Common Problems and Their Solutions

Whether you’re securing your backyard, a sporting ground, or an industrial area, chain wire fencing is a trusty option. But, as with anything, it’s not exempt from issues. Not to worry though! We’re diving deep into the common problems you might face with your chain link fencing and offering some thorough solutions. If you feel that your chain wire fence repairs may be tricky, please call us for a free assessment and quote.

1. Sagging Fence
Problem: Time and the elements can cause your fence to sag, making it less effective and not as visually pleasing.

Solution: Inspecting your fence regularly (say, every couple of months) can nip this issue in the bud. If sagging starts, it’s often a matter of tension. Invest in a fence puller or stretcher. This tool will help you apply the right force to get your fence back to its taut best. Then, reattach it to the fence posts using wire ties, cable or clips.

2. Corrosion and Rust
Problem: Australia’s diverse climate means parts of our country can be quite wet, leading to rust issues, especially if the fence isn’t treated properly.

Solution: Galvanised or PVC-coated chain wire fences are your best bet – so if you are still considering purchasing a new chain wire fence, go for this finish. If your chain link fencing has been there for a while and rust does form, don’t just paint over it. Give it a proper scrub with a wire brush to remove as much rust as possible then once you’ve got a clean surface, rust-proof paint or sprays can seal the deal. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so consider this step even if rust hasn’t shown its face yet.

3. Damaged or Bent Links
Problem: Chain wire fence has damaged and broken links in the wire.

Solution: Whether it’s a stray cricket ball or a kangaroo on the hop, bent links can happen. More often than not, you can reshape these links back to their original state with a pair of pliers. Get yourself a quality pair and practice if you’re new to the game. If a link is beyond repair, it’s straightforward to replace. Simply cut out the damaged section and weave in a new piece, ensuring it’s securely tied in place.

4. Vegetation Overgrowth
Problem: Vegetation and weeds are growing through chain wire fencing.

Solution: Nature has its way of creeping in, and sometimes that means through your fence and regular garden maintenance is key. Trim shrubs, trees, and weeds near your fence. For a longer-term solution, think about installing a garden bed or path as a buffer between the fence and the plants. A weed mat or barrier can also do wonders to keep unwanted growth at bay.

5. Loose or Leaning Posts
Problem: Chain wire fence is starting to drop or posts are starting to lean.

Solution: The strength of your fence is as good as the posts holding it up and proper installation is a must from the get-go. If your chain link fencing has been there for a while and you are noticing a lean, use a spirit level to ensure the posts are straight. If they start leaning over time, it might be a foundation issue. Carefully digging around the post, resetting it, and pouring fresh concrete can often set things right. Let the concrete cure properly before reattaching the fence. Please note that it is important to ensure there are no underground services near your fence post when digging – please contact us if there are any underground services along your fence line as a professional assessment needs to be done.

6. Security Breaches
Problem: A fence is there to keep things in or out, but sometimes intruders have other ideas.

Solution: Regular checks can spot potential weak points. For added security in commercial and industrial properties, barbed wire or cranked posts can be an effective deterrent against climbers. Lighting up the perimeter with motion sensor lights or having CCTV cameras can also give you peace of mind and ward off unwanted visitors.

7. Animal Damage
Problem: Some critters love to dig, and others fancy a nibble on your fence and some puppies love pushing into your fence and bowing the wire strands out.

Solution: For burrowers, installing the fence deeper into the ground can be a lifesaver. Alternatively, laying chicken wire or mesh at the base and burying it slightly can deter diggers (this is particularly important for livestock fencing to deter foxes). For the nibblers, try safe animal repellents or, in extreme cases, consider an electric fence charger to give them a gentle nudge away. For fences that have bowed out, please see section 1 to retension your chain wire.

8. Loose or Worn Gate Hardware
Problem: Hinges, latches, and drop bolts can wear down or loosen over time, especially on frequently used gates.

Solution: Check hinge bolts and latch screws every few months. Tighten or replace any parts showing signs of corrosion or fatigue. For heavier gates, use galvanised or stainless-steel hardware suited to chain wire fencing. Apply lubricant to hinges to prevent rust and keep movement smooth.

9. Poor Drainage and Ground Movement
Problem: Water pooling around fence posts or low spots can lead to corrosion, soil erosion, and post instability.

Solution: After heavy rainfall, check for pooling or waterlogging. Improve drainage by backfilling with gravel or installing small trenches along the fence line. In clay soil areas, consider adding a perforated drainpipe to direct water away from post foundations.

10. Inadequate Tension Wire or Top Rail Support
Problem: Without proper top or bottom tension wires, the mesh can sag or lift over time.

Solution: Install tension wires along both the top and bottom of the fence to maintain mesh stability. For taller or high-traffic fences, a rigid top rail adds extra support and helps distribute tension evenly along the fence line.

11. Fence Movement After Impact
Problem: Vehicles, machinery, or storm debris can bend or shift fence sections out of alignment.

Solution: Replace bent posts rather than bending them back, as weakened steel can fail later. Check for cracked concrete footings and inspect adjacent panels for strain. In car parks or industrial yards, adding bollards or wheel stops can prevent future damage.

12. Shade Cloth or Privacy Screen Damage
Problem: Shade cloth can act like a sail in strong winds, stretching or tearing the fabric and pulling on the wire mesh.

Solution: Remove shade cloth before storms and reattach it using UV-resistant fasteners once the weather clears. For permanent privacy, use mesh with airflow perforations to reduce wind load and protect your chain wire fence from stress.

13. Incorrect Wire Gauge for Site Conditions
Problem: Using wire that’s too light for the location can lead to early sagging, bowing, or vandalism damage.

Solution: Match wire thickness to fence purpose—2.5mm suits general use, while 3.15mm or heavier is better for industrial or exposed areas. Reinforce weaker sections by upgrading mesh where needed rather than replacing the entire fence.

14. Uneven Ground or Sloping Terrain
Problem: Fencing installed on slopes or uneven ground can develop gaps at the base or uneven tension along the mesh.

Solution: Step the fence line to follow the contour of the ground rather than stretching the mesh diagonally. Use shorter panels and closer post spacing on steeper slopes to keep the fence uniform and gap-free.

15. Incorrect Post Spacing
Problem: Posts set too far apart cause the mesh to bow or lose tension between supports.

Solution: Check that posts are spaced no more than 2.5 to 3 metres apart depending on height and wire gauge. For large spans, add intermediate supports or strainer posts to maintain alignment and prevent sagging.

16. Damage from Lawn Equipment
Problem: Whipper snippers and mowers can nick or damage the coating at the fence base, leading to corrosion over time.

Solution: Add a narrow concrete mowing strip or gravel edging along the base of your fence. It prevents grass from growing against the mesh and stops accidental contact from garden tools. Touch up any exposed metal with rust-protective paint.

17. Expansion and Contraction from Temperature Changes
Problem: Metal expands in heat and contracts in cold weather, which can loosen fittings or affect tension over time.

Solution: Use adjustable fittings like turnbuckles or strainers to fine-tune wire tension seasonally. Check and tighten connections twice a year to keep the mesh evenly tensioned through weather changes.

18. Poor Quality or Mismatched Fittings
Problem: Mixing different metals, like stainless steel bolts with galvanised wire, can cause galvanic corrosion and premature wear.

Solution: Always use fittings that match the material of your fence. Pair galvanised wire with galvanised hardware and PVC-coated mesh with compatible fittings. Consistency prevents corrosion at connection points and extends your fence’s lifespan.

Wrapping up, a bit of regular TLC can keep your chain wire fence standing tall and doing its job perfectly. No matter your location within Queensland, these tips should help you tackle any fencing challenge that comes your way. If you’d like a professional consultation on the condition of your fencing, please feel free to contact us for expert advice or a free quote. Stay safe, and happy fencing!