Chain Link vs Aluminum Fence — Which Is Right for You?
Comparing Cost, Durability, and Style for South Carolina Properties
Chain Link vs Aluminum — A Comprehensive Comparison
When Orangeburg County homeowners need a durable, open-style fence, two options rise to the top: chain link and aluminum. Both are excellent choices but they differ significantly in cost, aesthetics, maintenance, and long-term value. At Dubya Fence Company, we install both throughout the SC Midlands.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Chain Link | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| Cost/Linear Foot | $10 – $20 | $20 – $35 |
| 200 ft Estimate | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| Lifespan | 15 – 25 years | 30 – 50 years |
| Maintenance | Moderate — rust prevention | Very low — rust-proof |
| Curb Appeal | Basic / utilitarian | Elegant / decorative |
| Best For | Backyards, pets, security | Front yards, pools, HOA areas |
Chain Link Fence — Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Most affordable option — costs roughly half what aluminum does
- Extremely durable — galvanized steel mesh withstands impacts and heavy use
- Fast installation — rolled mesh installs faster than individual panels
- Customizable height — from 3 feet to 12 feet for security applications
- Vinyl coating option — black, green, or brown coating improves appearance
Disadvantages
- Aesthetic limitations — industrial appearance that many HOAs find unattractive
- No privacy — privacy slats can be added but increase cost
- Rust potential — in SC humidity, even galvanized can develop rust over 15–20 years
Aluminum Fence — Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Elegant appearance — looks like wrought iron at a fraction of the cost
- Zero rust — major advantage in SC humidity
- 30–50 year lifespan with minimal maintenance
- Increases property value and curb appeal
- HOA-friendly — almost universally accepted
- Pool code compliant — meets SC 54-inch minimum requirement
- Hurricane resistant — open picket design lets wind pass through
Disadvantages
- Higher upfront cost — roughly double chain link
- Not ideal for small pets — small dogs may squeeze through pickets
- No privacy — for privacy, consider wood or vinyl fencing
Best Use Cases
Choose Chain Link When:
- Budget is your primary concern
- The fence is not visible from the street
- You need pet containment for dogs of all sizes
- Commercial, agricultural, or farm fencing application
Choose Aluminum When:
- Curb appeal and property value are priorities
- Your HOA requires ornamental fencing
- You need pool fencing
- You want a 30+ year, low-maintenance fence
- The fence will be visible from the street
Cost Comparison
For a typical 200-linear-foot fence in the Orangeburg area:
- 4-foot chain link (galvanized): $2,000 – $3,000 installed
- 4-foot chain link (vinyl coated): $2,400 – $3,600 installed
- 4-foot aluminum (residential): $4,000 – $5,500 installed
- 5-foot aluminum (pool grade): $4,500 – $6,500 installed
Visit our fence cost guide or call (803) 855-1001 for a free estimate.
The Bottom Line
Both are excellent options. If budget efficiency is paramount, chain link delivers unbeatable value. If you want a fence that enhances appearance, lasts decades, and requires almost zero maintenance, aluminum is the smarter long-term investment. Many Orangeburg County customers use chain link for backyards and aluminum for front yards, getting the best of both worlds.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Dubya Fence Company for a free, no-obligation estimate on your fencing project.
Get a Free QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, aluminum typically costs $20-$35 per linear foot installed compared to $10-$20 for chain link. However, aluminum lasts 30-50 years versus 15-25 for chain link. Over the full lifespan, cost per year is often comparable.
Chain link is generally better for dog containment, especially for small dogs. The tight mesh prevents dogs from squeezing through. Aluminum fences have gaps between pickets that small dogs may fit through.
It depends on the specific HOA. Many restrict chain link in front yards and visible areas, but may allow it in backyards. Aluminum fencing is almost universally accepted by HOAs.
Both perform well in hurricanes because wind passes through their open designs. Chain link may have a slight edge because the flexible mesh absorbs wind energy. Both are more wind-resistant than solid fence types.
Chain link fences can accept privacy slats providing approximately 70-80% privacy. Aluminum fences are not designed for privacy additions. If privacy is your primary goal, consider wood or vinyl privacy fencing.