Putting up a chain link fence involves a series of steps, from planning to stretching the final mesh, providing a practical and durable barrier for your property.
Building a chain link fence is a manageable project that typically follows a standard sequence of tasks involving post setting, rail installation, and mesh attachment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Chain Link Fence
Installing a chain link fence efficiently requires careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps involved:
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**STEP 1) Calculate How Much Material You Need.**
Begin by measuring the perimeter of the area you want to fence. Determine the total linear footage of fencing required. This measurement helps calculate the amount of chain link mesh, top rail, and the number of posts (terminal posts like ends, corners, and gates, plus intermediate line posts) and fittings needed. Consider gate placement during this phase.
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**STEP 2) Marking and Installing End Posts.**
Locate and mark the positions for your terminal posts, which include end posts, corner posts, and gate posts. These posts are typically larger in diameter and set deeper in concrete than line posts to provide necessary tension support. Dig the post holes to the recommended depth (often below the frost line) and width, set the posts vertically using a level, and pour concrete, ensuring the posts are properly aligned.
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**STEP 3) Marking and Installing Your Intermediate Posts.**
Once the terminal posts are set, mark the locations for the intermediate or line posts along the fence line. These posts support the fence between the terminal posts and are typically spaced evenly, often between 8 to 10 feet apart. Install these posts similarly to the terminal posts, though they may require less concrete or can sometimes be driven directly into the ground depending on soil conditions and local codes. Maintain consistent alignment with the terminal posts.
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**STEP 4) Add Tension Bands and Caps to the Posts.**
Slide the tension bands onto the terminal posts (end, corner, gate posts). These bands are used to attach the chain link mesh using tension bars. Place post caps on top of all posts (terminal and line posts) to protect them from weather and provide a finished look. Ensure you have the correct size bands and caps for your specific post diameters.
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**STEP 5) Install the Top Rail.**
Connect the top rail sections together using rail couplers and attach the assembled rail to the terminal posts using loop caps or rail ends secured with bolts. The top rail runs horizontally along the top of the fence, providing support and rigidity to the chain link mesh.
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**STEP 6) Hang the Chain Link Mesh.**
Starting at one terminal post (like an end or gate post), unroll the chain link mesh along the outside of the fence line. Insert a tension bar vertically through the last row of diamonds in the mesh fabric. Attach this tension bar to the tension bands on the terminal post using carriage bolts.
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**STEP 7) Stretching the Chain Link Mesh.**
Walk along the fence line, pulling the mesh taut towards the next terminal post. Attach the mesh temporarily to the line posts using fence ties or hog rings. At the next terminal post, use a fence stretcher (come-along tool) attached to a tension bar inserted in the mesh end to pull the fabric tight. Once sufficiently stretched (the diamond pattern should be uniform and taught, with minimal sag), insert a tension bar and secure it to the tension bands on the post. Finally, secure the mesh permanently to all line posts and the top rail using fence ties, spacing them appropriately (e.g., every 12-18 inches).
Following these steps ensures a properly installed chain link fence that is both functional and durable.
