A chain-link fence has many good qualities. For one, it’s fairly sturdy. Generally speaking, it keeps the good things in and the not-so-good things out. It’s see-through, making your back yard feel more open and doesn’t block your flowers (or you) from getting sun. But beautiful it’s not!
You and I aren’t the only ones who think so. Want proof? Here’s a list of things people typically do to hide or partially obscure a chain-link fence:
- plant a hedge or shrub in front of it
- plant berries such as tall-growing raspberries
- grow a climbing vine on it
- put garden art up around it
The fence takes up a lot of ground so it’s a huge visual in the backyard. It’s what you see when you stare out the window. If it just wasn’t so “industrial” looking, we wouldn’t be trying to cover it up. If you’re planning some improvements this summer, you may be wishing you could do something about your chain link fence.
Believe it or not, there are two, good primary ways to change the look of your fence. They are very different, but both have impressive results in return for the labor. They aren’t too hard if you like to DIY, but are also things you could hire a local handyman to do. Both are considerably cheaper than replacing the fence. You may wish to try one of these options first.
It’ll not only change the appearance of your fence but give your whole yard a beautiful new look!
1) Paint a chain link fence
The good news is that a chain-link fence is paintable. Easily, paintable with a thick napped roller, just like you’d paint your walls. This is not a project for spray-paint! Most of it will be wasted with over-spray.
There are several name brands that manufacture specialty paint for use on a galvanized (non-rust) metal fence. One of them is made by Rust-oleum. It’s readily available at places like Home Depot simply called “Chain Link Fence Paint”. That’ll be easy to remember, won’t it? The paint is water-soluble, which means quick and easy cleanup.
While there are a few colors and finishes to choose from, I recommend going with a flat black (though it is available in gloss) Why black? A dark color recesses–or “fades”–into the background. (SEE photo above). Then, the fence becomes much less noticeable in the landscape. The color black presents a nice up-scale “formal” look to chain link similar to that of wrought iron.
Can you see the fence? This is the same photo as the one directly above as seen from a distance.
Prep work before painting
There is a bit of prep work involved in painting a chain link fence so your paint job will look its best. You’ll need to power wash the fence. If you don’t have one, most Home Depot locations have a rental department, so you can pick one up when you get your paint and any other supplies you don’t already have at home.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided as helpful resources to the reader. I have no affiliation with Home Depot or Rust-oleum and do not profit in any way from referencing them in this blog post.
2) Wood panel veneer
If painting doesn’t appeal to you, here’s another attractive way to change the appearance of your chain link fence. In fact, it will give your entire backyard a whole new look.
This project involves using fence boards to cover over the metal pipes. The effect softens the cold, industrial feel of chain link and gives more of a natural, wood look to the fence. Then, you can paint the boards, or just use a clear top coat.
Here’s a short 5 minute video to show you how it’s done. The following video is produced by Realtor Tracy Ferguson and is gratefully used here with her permission. Disclaimer: I have no connection to the Fergusons and this should not be considered an endorsement.
3) Creative possibilities with a chain-link fence
If nothing else, a chain link fence lends itself to some creative possibilities. In the photo above, a family expresses patriotism by making a flag with plastic cups. The sunlight shines through the cups and lights them up. When I drive around town and see stuff like this, it always brings a smile to my face.
I enjoy people’s imagination and creativity. Here, they’re just using what they’ve got–a typical chain-link fence–and did something artsy and pretty. It definitely took some time and effort with all those cups!
Your design could be a flower, an animal, name or a cheerful word.
Wrapping it up
Whether you’re thinking about painting, or leaning towards a wood veneer, there is hope for an old chain link fence after all! We want to be a helpful resource of ideas and inspiration to anyone who loves their backyard and garden spaces. And for many of us, that includes a fence. Rather than distract from the beauty and uniqueness of your yard, your fence should play a part in your landscaping.
I hope this article has been helpful. If you do decide to go with one of these solutions, I’d love to get a photo of your finished project. I’ll post it right up on our “braggin board” for everyone to see. I’m also interested in hearing how your project went and any helpful suggestions you may have for other readers.
Finally, if you enjoyed this article, you may enjoy being part of the Make it a Garden community. Scroll down just a bit to sign up. As my ‘thank you’, you’ll receive my 10 Best Garden Decor Tips, Free, as well as our monthly newsletter. We never send weeds (or spam), just relevant garden and art topics. Thanks for stopping by and good luck with your project!
More creative backyard ideas
Garden Privacy Screen: 5 terrific ideas
Garden design trends suitable for a small budget
She sheds and more for the kid-at-heart
I had no idea that chain link fences could be painted. Nice! The last house I lived at I had transferred some wild roses from my brother’s place and they started climbing up and through the chain link fence making a really pretty secluded yard.
Yes, Painting a fence a dark color makes a huge difference in the look of a chain link, and is a pretty cost-effective solution. But I like natural vegetation as well. Hedges make a nice green border and wild roses or any variety of climbing rose I imagine would be nice too, especially in bloom! Roses may also be a good deterrent to prevent pets from tunneling under the fence and escaping the yard.