Chain link fencing is an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance option for both residential and commercial properties. But what happens when you want to replace your fence? Can chain link fencing be recycled?
The answer is yes. You can definitely recycle your chain link fence. Chain-link is designed for use outdoors, so it ages well and tends to withstand the elements. It’s rust-resistant, and as long as it isn’t too damaged, it is easy to take down and re-install somewhere else. Depending on the climate, a chain link fence can often last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. In most cases, the posts, rods, and connecting pieces go bad before the fencing does.
Chain link fencing will often show wear when the paint begins to chip off, but this can easily be fixed with a new paint job.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Chain Link Fence
As with anything, time in the elements will affect how long your fence maintains its appearance and structure. There are things you can do to keep your fence around longer. You can apply Rustoleum to keep the rust away, keep vines off of your fence, wash your chain link fence, and repair it immediately as needed. If it is not too late, or you want to learn more about proper chain link fence maintenance, read it on our blog. If you need to be rid of your fence still due to a new different kind of fence, or it is too far gone to be worth the effort, you can learn below about ways to remove your chain link fence and dispose of it in a planet-friendly way.
Ways to Recycle Your Chain Link Fence
We recommend recycling your chain link fence by installing it in another location. If you are looking to remove your chain link fence and install a different style of fencing, you can try posting your chain link fence on a local community group on a site like Facebook. The main thing that will need to be replaced when it is reinstalled is the poles since they are cemented into the ground.
The fence can be taken down, rolled up, and easily transported to another location to be installed.
You can sell the chain link fencing, gift it to a neighbor or friend, or consider donating to places such as:
- Local animal shelters
- Farmers
- Community recreation centers or community gardens
If you don’t want to sell, give away, or donate your chain link fence, you can take it to a recycling center. Typically, chain link fencing is made from aluminum or galvanized steel, so the material your fencing is made from will determine whether or not a recycling center accepts it.
If you are unsure what your specific chain link fence is made of, be sure to take a small piece to the recycling center first. During your visit, be sure to check what they pay per pound. In many cases, aluminum will get you about 50 cents per pound, whereas ferrous metals will get you roughly 1 cent per pound.
Removing Your Chain Link Fence
To remove your chain link fence, start by removing the bolts from the fence using a socket set or an adjustable wrench. Move on to removing the ties, wires, and tension rods using pliers. As the ties are removed, the fence will begin to come down. We recommend rolling the fencing up as you go. Once this is removed, you can then move on to removing the posts and the concrete.
Need a New Fence Installed? Call Pittsburgh Fence Company
Pittsburgh Fence Company can remove your chain link fence at your Pittsburgh home and install a new fence to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more!