How to Upgrade Your Chain Link Fence with Privacy Slats: Benefits, Styles & Installation in Illinois
How to Upgrade Your Chain Link Fence with Privacy Slats: Benefits, Styles & Installation in Illinois
Why Use Privacy Slats?
- Enhanced privacy and wind protection (up to 95% visibility reduction)
- Affordable upgrade compared to wood or vinyl fences
- Durable and low maintenance
Types of Chain-Link Slats
- Top/Bottom Lock Vinyl Slats – ~75% coverage; popular and easy to install
- Winged Slats – ~90% coverage; self-locking, great wind resistance
- Hedge-Style Slats – Mimic greenery; offer privacy with aesthetic appeal
- Aluminum or Decorative Slats – Modern and sleek; great for commercial settings
Planning & Illinois-Specific Tips
- Most slats require 2" mesh; check your fence mesh size before ordering
- Confirm municipal/HOA rules for front yard fences or slatted fencing
- Reinforce posts for high-wind areas like Chicagoland suburbs
DIY vs Professional Installation
- Slats are easy to insert into existing mesh—no special tools required
- Estimate 10 slats per linear foot; allow several hours for install
- Pros can handle large jobs quickly and ensure uniform appearance
Cost Comparison: Chain Link Fence with Slats vs Wood, Vinyl, or Composite Privacy Fences
For Illinois homeowners looking to increase backyard privacy without breaking the bank, choosing a chain link fence with privacy slats is a highly cost-effective solution. When compared to full privacy fences made of wood, vinyl, or composite, the slatted chain link option offers several financial and long-term maintenance advantages—especially in Illinois’ climate.
Upfront Installation Costs
A standard chain link fence is one of the most budget-friendly fencing options available, typically ranging from $20–$45 per linear foot installed, depending on height and coating. Adding privacy slats to an existing or new fence adds about $20–$25 per linear foot, depending on the slat type (vinyl, winged, or hedge-style).
Compare that to:
- Wood privacy fences: $45–$65 per linear foot installed
- Vinyl privacy fences: $65–$75 per linear foot installed
- Composite fences: $150–$170+ per linear foot installed
You’re looking at 35% to 60% lower costs upfront by choosing a chain link system with slats.
Long-Term Value & Durability
Chain link fences—especially those with galvanized or black vinyl coating—are known to last 20–30 years or more with minimal maintenance. Unlike wood, they won’t rot, warp, or require staining. Even vinyl privacy fences, while low maintenance, can become brittle and crack in harsh Illinois winters.
The slats themselves are made from UV-resistant polyethylene or PVC, meaning they won’t fade or degrade quickly, and can easily be replaced individually if ever damaged.
Modularity & Flexibility
Another financial benefit is modularity. Homeowners can install the chain link fence first for basic security, then add privacy slats later—either all at once or section by section—spreading out costs over time. This makes the solution ideal for budget-conscious families or property owners wanting phased improvements.
Related Internal Resources from 76 FENCE
- Guide to Privacy Fencing in Illinois
- Top 10 Most Popular Fence Types in Illinois
- Best Fence Materials for Illinois
Helpful External Resources
If you’re weighing privacy fencing options, a chain link fence with slats gives you the best of both worlds: privacy, durability, and savings. It’s a perfect blend of affordability and performance, especially for properties in the greater Chicagoland area where weather and zoning vary from town to town.
Final Thoughts
Privacy slats are a smart, stylish way to upgrade your chain link fence without replacing it. Perfect for backyards, dog runs, or commercial lots in Illinois. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or hiring a pro, slats offer both beauty and functionality.
👉 Ready to install? Book your free fence consultation here
Fence Installation Blog
