Chain link fence is a simply woven steel wire fence coated with zinc to prevent rust, commonly referred to as galvanized fence. There are two kinds of galvanized chain-link, GBW and GAW: galvanized before weaving (GBW) and galvanized after weaving (GAW). The vast majority on the market today is galvanized after weaving.

Color chain link fence is sometimes called vinyl or color-coated. In this process, steel wire is first coated with zinc and then covered with a vinyl polymer coating that helps prevent rust and adds color. The vinyl is generally added to both the framework and the fabric of the fence.

Some chain link fence products use an aluminized coating to cover the steel in place of the zinc that creates a highly reflective finish. Regardless of the finish, all chain-link products offer a durable, economical fence system.