How to Choose the Right Selvedge For a Chain Wire Fence
When you select chain wire for a fencing project, you have to choose a type of selvedge. What are selvedges? How can you work out which one to use on your installation?
What Are Chain Wire Fencing Selvedges?
When you cut chain wire for fencing, the wire has sharp ends at its top and sometimes at its base. The selvedging process dictates what happens to these open wires. Most fences use one of two designs here. So, you can choose between buying wire with a knuckle or barb selvedge.
If you use a knuckle selvedge along the top of a fence, then the sharp wires in this area are bent over so that they sit in line with the wires underneath. Sometimes, they are also twisted to attach them to lower wires. The wires at the top of the fence look like bent knuckles.
If your chain wire has barb selvedging at the top, then you leave the sharp ends in place. They are usually twisted together and stick up out of the body of the fence.
Which Selvedge Should You Choose?
The type of selvedge you use on a fence does matter. It provides the fence's finish in these areas and affects the way the fence works.
For example, knuckle selvedges give your fences a neat and uniform look. They typically work best on regular fencing where you don't need additional security but do need to make your fence safe.
Knuckle selvedges hide away the wire's sharp edges. So, if someone were to grip the top of the fence, they wouldn't come to any harm. The knuckle design is smooth and safe to hold.
This selvedge works well on home installations and in public spaces where you have to look out for people who might grasp the top of the fence. For example, knuckle edges are a good option if you have children at home or if you are fencing around an outdoor pool or playground.
On the other hand, barb selvedges work well if you need extra security on your fence. Their sharp tops act as an additional deterrent. Anyone who tries to hold the top of the fence will cut their hands on the sharp prongs that stick up.
The fence's barbs make them more difficult to scale. So, this option might suit you if you are installing a fence in a commercial or industrial environment that needs more security.
For more advice on chain wire fencing wire selvedges, contact fence installation contractors.
