Mesh fences use wire or synthetic mesh to create barriers that block access while allowing light and airflow. They’re used around pools, gardens, pets, and play areas. Chain link, welded wire, and plastic mesh each have different strengths. Here’s how to choose the right mesh fence for your needs.
Chain Link Mesh
Chain link is the most familiar mesh fence. Steel wire is woven into a diamond pattern. It’s strong, hard to cut, and lasts decades. Galvanized chain link is silver-gray; vinyl-coated chain link comes in green, black, or brown. Chain link works for property boundaries, pool enclosures, and pet containment. See our chain link fence options guide for galvanized vs vinyl-coated details. Cost: about $8–$25 per linear foot installed.
Welded Wire Mesh
Welded wire mesh uses straight wires welded at each intersection into a grid. The openings are usually square or rectangular. Welded wire is lighter than chain link and often used for gardens, chicken coops, and small animal enclosures. Heights range from 2 to 6 feet. It’s less sturdy than chain link against climbing or impact but fine for keeping rabbits, chickens, and dogs in defined areas. Cost: about $5–$15 per linear foot installed, depending on height and gauge.
Pool Safety Mesh
Pool fences must meet local safety codes. Requirements often include height (typically 4 feet minimum), spacing (no openings a child can climb through), and self-closing, self-latching gates. Mesh pool fences use tightly woven mesh on aluminum or steel frames. Removable mesh fences let you take down sections when the pool is not in use. Permanent mesh pool fences are more common. Cost: about $15–$35 per linear foot. Aluminum pool fences—see our aluminum vs wrought iron guide—are another pool option.
Garden and Deer Fencing
Garden mesh keeps rabbits, deer, and other animals out of vegetable beds. Plastic deer netting is lightweight and inexpensive but not very durable. Metal welded wire (often 4-foot-tall rolls) is stronger and lasts longer. Electric fence mesh is used for livestock and can deter deer when installed correctly. Cost: plastic netting $1–$3 per foot; welded wire $2–$8 per foot (materials; DIY install).
Pet Containment Mesh
Dog runs and kennels often use chain link or welded wire. Chain link is stronger for large or determined dogs. Welded wire works for small dogs and temporary setups. Height depends on the dog’s size and jumping ability—4 feet is common, 6 feet for larger dogs. Bury the bottom or add a footer to prevent digging under. Cost: similar to chain link or welded wire, $8–$20 per linear foot installed.
Mesh Fence Type Comparison
| Type | Best For | Cost per ft | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chain link (galvanized) | Property, pool, pets | $8–$18 | High |
| Chain link (vinyl-coated) | Property, pool (better look) | $12–$25 | High |
| Welded wire | Garden, small animals | $5–$15 | Medium |
| Pool safety mesh | Pool barrier | $15–$35 | High |
| Plastic deer netting | Garden (temporary) | $1–$3 | Low |
Mesh Size and Gauge
Mesh size (opening dimension) and wire gauge (thickness) matter. Smaller openings keep out smaller animals. Heavier gauge wire is stronger and harder to cut. For pools, codes often limit opening size (e.g., no opening larger than 4 inches). For gardens, 2-by-4-inch or 1-by-2-inch welded wire is common. Chain link gauge is usually 9, 11, or 11.5; lower number means thicker wire.
When to Use Each Type
- Chain link: Property boundaries, pool enclosures, dog runs, security.
- Welded wire: Gardens, chicken coops, rabbit pens, small pet areas.
- Pool mesh: Code-compliant pool barriers where removable or permanent mesh is preferred.
- Plastic netting: Temporary garden protection, lightweight deer barrier.
Use our fence cost calculator for estimates. Chain link is in the default options; mesh pool fences and welded wire may need custom quotes.
FAQs
What mesh fence is best for a pool?
Chain link and dedicated pool safety mesh both work. Choose one that meets your local pool code for height, spacing, and gates.
What keeps deer out of a garden?
Welded wire or plastic deer netting at least 8 feet tall, or electric fencing. Mesh alone at 4–6 feet may not stop determined deer.
Is welded wire stronger than chain link?
Chain link is generally stronger and harder to cut. Welded wire is fine for gardens and small animals but less suitable for security.
Can you attach mesh to an existing fence?
Yes. Welded wire or plastic mesh can be stapled or wired to wood or chain link to add height or close gaps.