Chain-Link Fencing Installation & Repair in Salt Lake County, UT
When you need a durable, cost-effective fence that gets the job done without breaking the bank, chain-link fencing delivers. Whether you're securing a commercial property in Murray, enclosing a backyard in West Jordan, or protecting equipment at a construction site in Sandy, the right fence makes all the difference. But with Salt Lake County's unique weather patterns—harsh winters, intense summer sun, and those unpredictable wind storms that roll down from the Wasatch Front—not every chain-link fence is built to last.
At Bustos and Sons Construction, we've been installing and repairing chain-link fencing throughout Salt Lake County since 2011. Over the past 14 years, we've seen what works in our climate and what fails within a few seasons. We've secured everything from residential backyards in South Salt Lake to industrial facilities in Magna, and we understand the specific challenges our local environment presents.
Here's What We'll Cover
- Why chain-link fencing works for Salt Lake County properties – The practical benefits for our climate and terrain
- Chain-link fence options and customizations – From gauge thickness to vinyl coating choices
- Our installation process – What to expect from consultation to completion
- Maintenance and longevity – How to maximize your fence's lifespan in Utah's climate
- Pricing factors – What influences cost and how to budget for your project
- Common applications – Residential, commercial, and specialty installations we handle
- Repair and restoration services – When repair makes more sense than replacement
Why Chain-Link Fencing Makes Sense in Salt Lake County
Climate-Tested Durability
Salt Lake County presents specific challenges for outdoor structures. Our temperature swings from below zero in January to over 100°F in July put stress on any material. The galvanized steel we use for chain-link fencing handles these extremes better than wood (which warps and rots) or vinyl (which can crack in extreme cold).
We've maintained fences through the historic windstorms that hit the valley in 2020 and 2021, and properly installed chain-link fencing consistently outperforms other options when winds exceed 60 mph. The flexible nature of the mesh allows wind to pass through rather than creating the solid barrier that can topple privacy fences.
Cost-Effective Security
For property owners in areas like Kearns, Taylorsville, or Millcreek, chain-link fencing provides security at a fraction of the cost of other fencing options. You'll typically invest 40-60% less than comparable wood or ornamental iron fencing while getting a fence that requires minimal maintenance.
We've installed chain-link fencing for dozens of commercial properties along State Street and Redwood Road where businesses need to secure inventory, equipment, or parking areas without exhausting their capital improvement budgets.
Versatility Across Property Types
Over our 14 years in business, we've installed chain-link fencing for:
- Residential properties: Backyard enclosures for pets and children, property line demarcation, and pool safety barriers that meet Utah building codes.
- Commercial facilities: Loading dock security, equipment storage areas, rooftop equipment enclosures, and parking lot perimeters from Draper to West Valley City.
- Industrial sites: Warehouse perimeters, construction site temporary and permanent fencing, utility infrastructure protection, and storage yard security.
- Municipal and institutional: Park boundaries, school playground enclosures, sports field backstops, and public facility security throughout the county.
- Agricultural properties: Livestock containment, garden protection, and property boundaries in the more rural areas of the county like Herriman and Bluffdale.
Chain-Link Fence Options and Customizations
Not all chain-link fencing is created equal. The choices you make during planning directly impact how your fence performs over the next 20-30 years.
Wire Gauge and Framework
We primarily work with 9-gauge and 11-gauge wire mesh. The 9-gauge (thicker wire) provides maximum strength for high-security applications or areas with high wind exposure. The 11-gauge works well for standard residential applications where heavy impact isn't a concern.
For framework, we use galvanized steel posts and rails sized appropriately for your fence height. Our standard residential installation uses 2-inch diameter posts, while commercial applications often require 2⅜-inch or larger posts for 6-8 foot heights.
Height Options
While 4-foot fencing is the minimum we recommend for basic property demarcation, we typically install:
- 4-foot fencing: Front yards, decorative boundaries, garden enclosures
- 6-foot fencing: Privacy-oriented residential backyards, standard commercial perimeters
- 8-10-foot fencing: High-security commercial sites, equipment storage, code requirements for certain applications
- For properties in foothill areas like Cottonwood Heights or Holladay where deer are common, we often recommend 8-foot heights to prevent jumping.
Coating and Color Options
- Galvanized finish: Our standard, most economical option. The silver metallic appearance works well for industrial and utilitarian applications.
- Vinyl-coated chain-link: Available in black, brown, and green, vinyl coating provides a more finished appearance while adding an extra layer of protection against rust. This option is popular for residential properties where aesthetics matter. The coating holds up well to our climate, though dark colors will absorb more heat in summer.
- We've found that vinyl-coated fencing in neutral colors like brown or green blends particularly well with the natural landscape in areas near the foothills or the Jordan River Parkway.
Privacy Enhancement
While chain-link is naturally see-through, we offer several privacy solutions:
- Privacy slats: Vertical slats woven through the mesh, available in various colors. These reduce visibility by approximately 90% and cut wind flow by about 60%.
- Privacy screening: Mesh fabric material that attaches to the fence and blocks visibility while allowing some air flow. Popular for pool areas and residential backyards.
- Bottom rail additions: Prevent small animals from squeezing under and provide additional structural support.
Gates and Access Points
Every chain-link fence installation includes at least one gate. We custom-build gates to match your fence specifications:
- Walk gates: 3-4 feet wide for pedestrian access
- Drive gates: 10-16 feet wide for vehicle access, single or double configurations
- Automated gates: We partner with local gate automation specialists for properties requiring electric operators
- All our gates include heavy-duty hinges and locking mechanisms. For commercial applications, we install options compatible with padlocks, key systems, or electronic access controls.
Our Installation Process: What to Expect
Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
We begin every project with a property visit. During this consultation, we walk your property line, discuss your needs, identify any challenges (rocky soil, slopes, existing utilities), and answer your questions.
For Salt Lake County properties, we're particularly attentive to:
- Underground utilities: We coordinate with Blue Stakes of Utah for utility location before any digging
- Frost depth requirements: Utah code requires fence posts to be set below the frost line (approximately 36 inches in our area)
- Drainage patterns: Important in areas with clay soil or at the base of slopes
- Wind exposure: Properties in open areas or near mountain canyons require additional bracing
- HOA requirements: Many neighborhoods have specific fencing guidelines we'll verify before planning
Accurate Measurement and Quoting
We provide written estimates that break down costs by linear footage, gate installations, and any customizations. Our quotes are valid for 60 days and include all labor, materials, and post-installation cleanup.
We don't require full payment upfront. Our standard terms are 30% deposit to schedule the work and order materials, with the balance due upon completion.
Professional Installation
Our installation crews have an average of 8+ years of experience with our company. We typically complete residential installations (up to 200 linear feet) in 1-2 days, depending on ground conditions and project complexity.
- Day 1: We mark post locations, dig post holes using professional-grade augers, set posts in concrete, and allow concrete to cure overnight.
- Day 2: We install top rails, tension wire, hang chain-link mesh, stretch it to proper tension, and install gates. Final walk-through follows to ensure you're completely satisfied.
- For larger commercial projects, we develop a work schedule that minimizes disruption to your operations. We've successfully completed weekend and after-hours installations when business requirements demand it.
Permitting and Code Compliance
Salt Lake County requires building permits for most fence installations. We handle all permitting requirements and ensure your fence complies with:
- Height restrictions: Usually 6 feet maximum in rear yards, 4 feet in front yards (varies by city)
- Setback requirements: Distance from property lines, sidewalks, and streets
- Corner lot visibility: Special rules for properties at intersections
- Pool enclosures: Specific code requirements for self-closing gates and latch heights
- Each city within the county—Sandy, Murray, Midvale, Draper, Cottonwood Heights, etc.—has its own ordinances. We stay current with these regulations and ensure your fence passes final inspection.
Maintenance and Longevity in Utah's Climate
Chain-link fencing requires minimal maintenance, but a few simple practices extend its life significantly.
Expected Lifespan
With proper installation, galvanized chain-link fencing lasts 20-30 years in Salt Lake County's climate. Vinyl-coated options typically last 25-35 years, with the vinyl coating protecting the underlying galvanization.
The fences we installed when we started in 2011 are still performing well throughout the county, with most requiring no repairs beyond occasional gate adjustments.
Rust Prevention
While galvanization provides excellent rust protection, areas where the coating is damaged (from impact or severe abrasion) can develop rust. The dry Utah climate is actually beneficial here—rust progresses much slower than in humid regions.
For vinyl-coated fencing, inspect for coating damage annually, especially around gates and high-traffic areas. Small damaged areas can be touched up with vinyl repair tape or spray coating.
Winter Considerations
Remove heavy snow accumulation that presses against your fence. While the fence can handle typical snowfall, several feet of wet spring snow creates unnecessary stress.
Salt and deicing chemicals used on nearby driveways or roads can accelerate corrosion if they repeatedly splash on your fence. A simple rinse with a garden hose each spring removes these residues.
Vegetation Management
Keep grass, weeds, and vines clear from the fence bottom. Vegetation traps moisture against the metal and can accelerate corrosion. This is particularly important in irrigated areas or along property lines with sprinkler overspray.
We've seen beautiful ivy-covered chain-link fences, but the moisture retention and weight can reduce fence life by 30-40%.
Gate Maintenance
Gates receive the most wear and require occasional attention:
- Lubricate hinges annually with silicone spray or light oil
- Check latch alignment each season—gate posts can shift slightly with freeze-thaw cycles
- Tighten hardware as vibration from opening/closing can loosen bolts over time
- Most gate issues are easily addressed and don't require professional service.
Pricing Factors: What Influences Your Investment
Every chain-link fence project is unique, but understanding cost factors helps you budget appropriately.
Material Choices
- Wire gauge: 9-gauge costs approximately 15-20% more than 11-gauge
- Coating: Vinyl-coated mesh adds 30-40% to material costs
- Height: 6-foot fencing costs about 40% more than 4-foot; 8-foot adds another 35%
Site Conditions
Properties with challenging conditions require additional labor:
- Rocky soil: Common in foothill areas, requires more time and equipment for post holes
- Slopes: Installing fence on hillsides requires special techniques and additional materials
- Accessibility: Limited access for equipment increases labor time
- Existing fence removal: If we need to remove old fencing, this adds to the project cost
Project Size
Larger projects benefit from economies of scale. The per-foot cost typically decreases for projects over 300 linear feet as setup and mobilization costs are spread across more footage.
Timeline
Standard scheduling (2-4 weeks out) provides the best pricing. Rush installations requiring immediate scheduling may incur premium charges.
Typical Investment Ranges
While every project is custom-priced, residential projects in Salt Lake County typically fall in these ranges:
- Small yard enclosure (100-150 linear feet, 4-foot height): Mid-range investment for basic property security
- Standard backyard fence (200-250 linear feet, 6-foot height): Most common residential project
- Large property perimeter (400+ linear feet): Benefits from volume pricing
- Commercial projects vary widely based on security requirements, gate specifications, and site conditions.
- We provide detailed written estimates at no charge, with no obligation or pressure to proceed.
Common Applications We Handle
Residential Backyard Enclosures
The majority of our residential work involves backyard fencing for:
- Pet containment: Secure areas for dogs, with bottom rails preventing digging under. We've installed hundreds of dog runs and yard enclosures throughout the valley.
- Child safety: Parents in South Jordan, Riverton, and Herriman frequently choose chain-link for play areas—visibility allows supervision while providing security.
- Pool barriers: We install code-compliant pool enclosures meeting Utah's strict safety requirements, including self-closing gates and proper latch heights.
- Garden protection: Keeping deer, rabbits, and other wildlife out of vegetable gardens, especially in foothill areas.
Commercial and Industrial Security
Our commercial clients throughout Salt Lake County rely on us for:
- Perimeter security: Complete property enclosures for warehouses, storage facilities, and distribution centers, particularly along the I-15 and I-80 industrial corridors.
- Equipment storage: Secure outdoor areas for construction equipment, HVAC units, transformers, and expensive machinery.
- Parking lot control: Defining parking areas and controlling vehicle access for businesses and apartment complexes.
- Dumpster enclosures: Required by most cities, we build code-compliant enclosures that keep trash contained and accessible.
- Roof equipment screening: Chain-link enclosures around rooftop HVAC and other mechanical equipment.
Sports and Recreation Facilities
We've installed backstops, dugout fencing, and field perimeters for:
- Little League and youth baseball fields
- School playgrounds and athletic facilities
- Private tennis courts and batting cages
- City parks and recreation areas
Temporary Construction Fencing
For contractors working on projects throughout the county, we provide temporary chain-link fencing for:
- Construction site security and safety
- Crowd control for public events
- Temporary partitioning during renovation projects
- Our temporary fence panels are reusable and can be relocated as project needs change.
Specialty Applications
Over 14 years, we've handled unique requests including:
- Dog kennel designs for breeders and training facilities
- Snow fence installations for properties with drifting problems
- Custom height fencing for wildlife management
- Partition fencing for shared driveways or multi-tenant properties
Repair and Restoration Services
Not every damaged fence needs complete replacement. We assess repair vs. replace options honestly.
When Repair Makes Sense
- Gate issues: Sagging gates, worn hinges, or damaged latches are easily repaired. We can rebuild or replace gates without touching the fence line.
- Damaged sections: If a vehicle impacts your fence or a fallen tree damages a section, we can replace 10-20 feet of fencing and blend it seamlessly with the existing installation.
- Post replacement: Individual posts that have rusted at ground level or were damaged can be replaced without disturbing the entire fence.
- Fabric tears: Small tears in the chain-link mesh can be repaired with wire ties or by splicing in new fabric.
- Tension adjustment: Over time, chain-link fabric can loosen. We can re-stretch and re-tension existing fencing to restore its original appearance.
When Replacement is Better
If your fence has:
- Widespread rust throughout the fabric
- More than 30% of posts showing structural damage
- Multiple large tears or impact damage
- Settlement or leaning affecting large sections
- In these cases, complete replacement provides better long-term value than extensive repairs.
Fence Enhancement
We also upgrade existing chain-link fencing:
- Add privacy slats or screening to existing fence
- Increase height by replacing top rail and adding fabric
- Convert manual gates to automatic operators
- Add barbed wire or security features for commercial properties
Why Property Owners Choose Bustos and Sons Construction
Local Experience Since 2011
We've been serving Salt Lake County exclusively for 14 years. We're not a national franchise or a company spreading resources across multiple states. Every project we complete adds to our understanding of what works in our specific climate, soil conditions, and regulatory environment.
We've worked in every city in the county—from Alta to West Jordan, from the foothills to the valley floor. We know which areas have rocky soil that requires special equipment, where wind exposure demands extra bracing, and how different municipalities interpret fencing codes.
Skilled Installation Teams
Our field crews are experienced professionals, not day laborers. We invest in ongoing training and provide the proper equipment for quality installations. Our augers reach the required depth even in rocky soil, our stretching equipment tensions fabric correctly the first time, and our concrete is properly mixed and placed to prevent post movement.
Quality Materials
We source materials from established manufacturers and don't cut corners with substandard components. The difference between a 15-year fence and a 30-year fence often comes down to material quality and installation technique—we get both right.
Transparent Communication
From your initial contact through project completion, you'll know what's happening. We return calls promptly, show up when scheduled, and address concerns immediately. Our written estimates clearly detail what's included, and we don't surprise you with hidden fees.
Licensed and Insured
We maintain proper licensing for fence installation in Salt Lake County and carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. You're protected if anything goes wrong during installation.
Warranty Coverage
We stand behind our work with warranties covering:
- Installation workmanship
- Structural integrity of posts and framework
- Gate operation and hardware
- Specific warranty terms are provided in writing with your project estimate.
Getting Started with Your Chain-Link Fence Project
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Contact us to arrange a property visit. We'll discuss your needs, take measurements, identify any potential challenges, and answer your questions. There's no cost for this consultation and no obligation to proceed.
Receive Your Detailed Estimate
Within 2-3 business days, you'll receive a written estimate breaking down all costs. We explain material choices, timeline expectations, and any permitting requirements.
Review and Approve
Take time to review the estimate, compare options if desired, and contact us with any questions. When you're ready to proceed, we'll schedule your installation date and order materials.
Professional Installation
We complete your fence efficiently and professionally, keeping you informed throughout the process. After installation, we conduct a final walk-through to ensure everything meets your expectations.
Enjoy Your New Fence
You'll have a durable, professionally installed chain-link fence that provides security and value for decades to come.
Serving All of Salt Lake County and Park City
Contact us today for a free consultation and detailed estimate for your chain-link fencing project.