by Tony Thornton President, Thornton Fence Consulting Group
Chain Link Fence Installation 101 I get the calls every week of a new company getting started and asking the “how to” questions. All of us seasoned fence installers take for granted that we know the “how to”, but we started at the 101 level in the beginning as well. The following content is being provided as an entry level overview for new installers to get familiar with basic procedures for installation a chain link fence. This is not a complete overview or high-level guide. Installing a chain link fence can be a practical and cost-effective solution for securing property. Whether you’re looking to protect a backyard, enclose a dog run, or define boundaries, chain link fences are durable and relatively easy to install. In this introduction to chain link fence installation, we’ll discuss the basic steps involved in setting up a chain link fence with concrete footings. The following is a quick entry-level overview to help understand the process for a layout, marking, digging, setting, framing, stretching, and finishing off with gates and final walk through.
the holes with concrete mix, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the concrete to cure and harden. 5. Attaching Necessary Fittings: Installing the brace bands, rail ends, tension bands, loop tops, top rail and tension wire at bottom is required at this point of construction. After the concrete has been set and allowed cure time, attach the necessary fittings and framework to each termination point. Continued on p75
1. Planning and Preparation: Before beginning the installation process, call 811 before digging to ensure all underground utilities are marked. After that, it’s crucial to plan the fence layout and determine the exact location where the fence will be installed. Measure the area accurately and ensure compliance with local zoning regulations and property boundaries. Gathering the necessary tools and materials is an important task at this point. 2. Marking the Fence Line: Use stakes and/or strings to mark the fence line, ensuring it follows the desired path. Some professionals can mark lines without strings, known as back setting and this is a preferred method as you develop your skillset. 3. Digging Post Holes: Start by digging post holes along the marked fence line, at regular intervals. The depth and diameter of the holes will depend on the height and strength of your fence. Refer to following for proper diameter and depth of holes per ASTM Standards Chain Link Fence • Diameter - Four times the post diameter for post 4” and under, and 3 times the post diameter for larger posts • Depth – minimum of 24” plus 3” for each 1’ of fence height over 4’ • Footings should extend at least 6” below frost line or bell bottom of holes 4. Installing Fence Posts: Place the fence posts into the prepared holes and ensure they are level and plumb. A common practice is to grade the post height as the concrete is being placed in the holes. This will eliminate having to cut the post to height prior to installation of rail and fabric. Fill FENCENEWS.COM | AUGUST 2023
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