Covers for Chain Link Fences: Windscreens vs. Slats

Chain link is the most common choice for commercial and sports fencing, due to the diamond-shaped gaps in the mesh which permit visibility and air flow while, at the same time, securing a piece of property. However, there are occasional days where the wind is lashing about and it’d be nice to place protective covering over your fence panels—so you can hold outdoor activities without being distracted by a chilly breeze. For this reason, here at American Fence Rental, we recommend windscreens and slats for chain link fencing.

Windscreens and slats provide extra coverage: blocking wind, reducing visibility, and increasing aesthetics. They can also be used to host logos and advertising, which is a nice perk for sporting venues! What’s more, both of these cover types can be used on chain link fences of all kinds—from small neighborhood fences to temporary fences to the fences that help protect baseball stadiums! Each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss in this article.

Windscreen for Chain Link Fences

Windscreen is a mesh fabric commonly used at sporting venues such as stadiums. It comes in a variety of colors and can be customized to display images and text. (This is the best type of fence covering for outdoor advertising.) Windscreen mesh can also be customized in terms of density—ranging from translucent to opaque.

The downside to using windscreen versus slats is that windscreen has a short lifespan. The materials used for this protective mesh tend to wear out after regular exposure to the elements. For this reason, windscreens for chain link fencing are highly recommended as temporary solutions: if you need coverage for a weekend sporting event or just the occasional windy day.

Slats for Chain Link Fences

Slats for chain link fences can be fashioned from long-lasting materials: wood, plastic, or metal. What’s more, they are designed to be installed through the actual weave of the actual fence. This makes them more of a permanent fixture.

Most slats are also designed with a fine visual aesthetic, though there are disadvantages to consider. Because slats for chain link fences are more robust and long lasting, they tend to cost more than windscreens. They also take longer to install and don’t offer the same customization options. Slats are available in a variety of colors, and many use designs featuring alternating patterns. But these visual customizations tend to be permanent like the slats themselves.

Windscreens or Slats for Chain Link Fences?

As we can see, windscreens and slats come with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. So, the best cover type depends on your individual circumstances. Fence owners who need a temporary and highly customizable solution will find their money’s worth in buying windscreens. However, those needing a more permanent solution, who don’t require as many decorative options—and who are willing to invest a little more on cost and installation—will want to turn to slats as the preferred covering for chain link fences.

Visit American Fence Rental today to get a free quote on windscreens and slats for chain link fences.