Chain link fences are one of the most practical types of fences available. They’re durable, affordable, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for homeowners, businesses, and industrial properties alike. But let’s face it—while functional, they aren’t always the most visually appealing option. The good news? With a little creativity and effort, DIY chain link fence decorations can transform your fence into an eye-catching feature that complements your space.
Why Decorate Your Chain Link Fence?
Decorating your chain link fence goes beyond aesthetics. Here are a few benefits:
- Improved Curb Appeal: A decorated fence adds charm and character to your property.
- Added Privacy: Certain decorative options, like fence slats or panels, provide extra privacy while maintaining airflow.
- Personalized Space: Customize your fence to reflect your personality or match your outdoor decor.
DIY Chain Link Fence Decorations
Chain link fences are a practical and durable type of fence, but their utilitarian design can sometimes leave them looking a bit plain. Fortunately, there are countless ways to transform your chain link fence into an attractive and functional part of your property. Whether you want to add privacy, incorporate natural elements, or get creative with unique materials, decorating your fence can be a fun and rewarding DIY project.
From installing classic fence slats to weaving colorful patterns or adding greenery, these ideas will help you elevate your fence while maintaining its functionality. Explore the following tips to give your chain link fence a fresh, personalized look that complements your space:
- Fence Slats
- Creative Lightning
- Greenery
- Creating Patterns
- Garden Art
- Privacy Panels
- Decorative Inserts
Fence Slats: The Privacy and Style Upgrade
Fence slats are a classic way to enhance the look of a chain link fence. These slim, vertical inserts slide directly into the chain link mesh, creating a polished and cohesive appearance. They come in a variety of colors and styles so you can truly personalize your fence.
How to Install Fence Slats
- Measure Your Fence: Measure the height and width to determine how many slats you’ll need.
- Choose a Color and Material: Select slats that complement your property.
- Insert Slats: Slide each slat vertically into the chain link mesh, securing them as needed.
Fence slats are ideal for those seeking added privacy or protection from the wind while giving their fence a clean, finished look.
Creative Lighting
Solar lights are a great way to mark the perimeter of a garden or pathway. Strings of lights make a backyard or deck festive. Look for waterproof LED lights to hang around the outside of your house or in the yard. These lights come in lots of colors. You can find configurations that suggest twinkling stars or flowing waterfalls. The contrast of white lights strung on a dark metal fence looks great.
Greenery and Plants
Nature lovers can use plants to decorate their chain link fence, blending functionality with greenery.
Climbing Plants
- Ivy, jasmine, and honeysuckle are excellent choices for adding a natural touch.
- Over time, these plants will grow and weave through the chain link, creating a lush, green wall.
Hanging Planters
- Attach pots or planters to the fence to create a vertical garden.
- Use zip ties or hooks to secure the planters without damaging the fence.
Plants not only beautify your fence but also provide additional shade and privacy.
Create Patterns with Colorful Materials
One of the easiest ways to decorate your chain link fence is by weaving colorful materials into the mesh. Get creative with upcycled materials to decorate your chain link fence while keeping costs low.
What You’ll Need
- Ribbons, fabric strips, or zip ties in your chosen colors.
- Scissors for trimming excess material.
- Old CDS
- Painted Wood
How to Create Patterns
- Choose a Design: Simple patterns like stripes or geometric shapes work well.
- Weave or Attach: Secure the material through the chain link fence, following your design.
- Trim and Adjust: Ensure everything is taut and neatly secured.
This method is budget-friendly, customizable, and great for seasonal or holiday themes. Reusing materials not only saves money but also reduces waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Garden Art
Garden art can be elegant or kitschy. Since it’s easy to add or take away new pieces, have fun and experiment. Not sure where to begin? Start with a theme or collection. Do you like garden globes? Glass gazing balls are available in lots of colors and sizes and at many different price points. If you love humor and irony, group together a bunch of garden gnomes. Garden art often has an anything-goes aesthetic. So, go for it!
Add Privacy Panels
If you want to decorate your fence and enhance privacy, consider adding panels.
Options for Privacy Panels
- Bamboo Rolls: Affordable and easy to attach for a natural look.
- Wood Panels: Durable and stylish, ideal for a long-term solution.
- Lattice Panels: Lightweight and decorative, perfect for creating a semi-private barrier.
How to Attach Lattice Panels
Your chain link fence offers great functionality, but unfortunately, it doesn’t offer very much privacy. If you want to add an extra layer of privacy while beautifying your fence at the same time, then adding a lattice trellis can be a wonderful option.
These lattices are sturdy and lightweight and come in composite or trellis panels. They are available for purchase at home supply stores or lumber supply stores and are usually available in 4-by-8-foot panels. Once you purchase, you’ll need to know how to add it to your chain link fence:
Step #1: Placement
Place a panel flush on the outside of the chain link fence and make sure that the panel does not touch the ground.
Step #2: Wrap
Wrap the wire in between the lattice and chain link fence in the middle of the panel, then twist the wire to make sure it is secured to the panel. Next, use pliers to cut off the extra wire. Repeat this on the edges to the left and right, then on the top and bottom. There should be about nine secure points for every panel that you use.
Step #3: Cover
Position the next panel directly next to the previous one, ensuring that it’s the same distance from the ground. Repeat the securing method and continue on until the fence is completely covered.
Step 4: Attach
Attach a 1-by-4-inch board that is approximately 4 feet long on the trellis side, then add another one on the chain link side. Then, use deck or wood screws to join the two boards to secure the fence for the long term. Next, attach boards at the top of the fence and at the bottom, making sure to cover the edges of the lattice panels. If there are more fence edges, repeat as needed until they are covered.
Decorative Inserts for Chain Link Fences
A simple and effective way to bring life to your chain link fence is by using colorful inserts designed to fit into the fence’s mesh. These plastic cup-like decorations allow you to create vibrant patterns, messages, or images without the need for tools or permanent modifications. They’re ideal for adding a personal or seasonal touch to your fence, whether for a home, school, or community project.
Why Choose Decorative Inserts?
- Easy to Install: Simply pop the inserts into the gaps of your fence for a secure fit.
- Weather-Resistant: Made from durable plastic, these inserts hold up well against rain, sun, and wind.
- Reusable: Remove and store them for future use, making them a sustainable and cost-effective decoration.
- Wide Variety of Colors: Choose from a broad palette to match your design or theme.
Decorative inserts are a fantastic way to make your fence stand out and can be tailored to suit any occasion or style. Plus, they’re easy to remove, letting you update your design as often as you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I decorate my chain link fence without damaging it?
Yes! Use non-invasive methods like zip ties, clips, or hooks to secure decorations without drilling holes or making permanent changes.
What is the best type of fence decoration for privacy?
Fence slats or bamboo panels are excellent choices for combining privacy and aesthetics.
How can I make my decorations weather-resistant?
Opt for materials like vinyl, treated wood, or rust-resistant metals. Ensure any fabric or ribbons are UV-resistant.
Can I change my decorations seasonally?
Absolutely! Try switching out designs or materials to reflect the seasons or holidays.
Are there any restrictions on decorating fences?
Check with your local HOA or community regulations to ensure your decorations comply with any rules.
Decorating your chain link fence isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a space you love. Whether you’re sprucing up a backyard, enhancing a community garden, or making a rental property feel more like home, these DIY ideas allow you to express your creativity while adding value to your outdoor space.
For expert advice or professional fence installation, contact Pacific Fence & Wire today. With over 100 years of experience, we’re here to help you protect and beautify your property.
