Fence Wire Gauge Size

Chain link fence uses wire that comes in a variety of gauges. Gauge is the diameter of the wire; the higher the gauge number the smaller the wire diameter.

Common gauges and diameters are as follows:

• 6 gauge=.192”
• 9 gauge=.148” (Approx. thickness of 1 U.S. Nickel)
• 11 gauge=.120” (Approx. thickness of 2 U.S. Dimes)
• 11 ½ gauge=.113”
• 12 gauge=.106”

Usually, if the “mesh size” of your fence is 2”, then the gauge of the wire is typically 9 or 11. If your fence’s “mesh size” measurement is larger than 2” (such as 2 1/4” or 2 3/8”); then the gauge of the wire is typically 11 or 12.

Fence Mesh Size

Measure diagonally one of openings on your chain link fence (referred to as the chain link fence’s “mesh size”). Chain link can be made in most any mesh size ranging from 3/8” mini-mesh high security fencing to 2.25" light weight fencing.

Some common mesh sizes and their applications are:

• 1.25" mesh (no-climb pool fence)
• 1.75" mesh (tennis court fence)
• 2.00" mesh (standard residential and commercial fence)
• 2.25" mesh (light-weight fencing)