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.

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 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

NADRA’s Deck Evaluation/Inspection Certification Classes

August 18, 2023 – webinar

October 20, 2023 – webinar www.nadra.org

Wood Defender Classes for 2023

Training classes are held monthly. After completion, attendees are ready to hit the ground running and stain their first fence. The classes cover all aspects, including:

• Sales and marketing techniques of the fence-staining service

• Equipment and product demonstration

• Overview of equipment options to fit every budget

• Specific product knowledge of Wood Defender products

• Proper clean up and job site management techniques

Class dates are:

• August 25

• September 22

• October 27

• November 17 www.wooddefender.com

The Fence Show Expo

August 23 – 25, 2023

South Point Casino & Hotel

Las Vegas, Nevada www.fenceshow.com

The 2023 Landscape Show

August 23 – 25, 2023

Orange County Convention Center Orlando, Florida www.thelandscapeshow.org

AFA U and Carolinas Chapter by the Sea

AFA U – September 12 – 15, 2023

Carolinas by the Sea – September 14 – 16, 2023

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina www.americanfenceassociation.com

Landscape Expo

September 20 – 21, 2023

Anaheim Convention Center

Anaheim, California www.thelandscapeexpo.com

WASA 2023 Trade Show

September 28 – 29, 2023

The Mirage Hotel & Casino

Las Vegas, Nevada www.wasaonline.org

AFA Midwest Annual Golf Tournament

September 29 – 30, 2023

Shanri La Resort Afton, Oklahoma ifno@protectingyourradius.com

LBM Strategies 2023 Conference

October 11 – 13, 2023

Charlotte, North Carolina www.lbmstrategies.com

NAFCA Business Operations, Training and Arlington National Cemetery Service Project

October 18 – 20, 2023

Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia www.4nafca.com

PSP/Deck Expo 2023

November 10 – 15, 2023

Las Vegas Convention Center www.poolspapatio.com

CLFMI Annual Meeting

November 14 – 17, 2023

La Quinta Resort

Palm Springs, California www.chainlinkinfo.org

NADRA’s Decks Done Right Education Program

Two-day live webinar

Part 1: December 8, 2023

Part 2: December 15, 2023 www.nadra.org

FENCETECH 2024

January 23 – 26, 2024

Nashville, Tennessee www.americanfenceassociation.com

NAFCA Fence Training School

February 11 – 15, 2024

Sebring, Florida www.4nafca.com

If you have a fencing industry event you’d like included in an upcoming issue, please email the information to: editor@fencenews.com.

6. Installing Chain Link Fabric: There are a few methods for installing chain link fabric along the fence line including, unrolling on the ground or by bouncing the roll out along the fence line while maintain the fabric in a stand-up position leaning against the line post and top rail. The common method for stretching the fabric is using a come-along and a stretcher bar for long runs. Smaller stretches will be done by panel pullers or specialty tools for short stretches. The fabric will be attached at each termination point with tension bands, tension bars and proper carriage bolts. The fabric will be attached to the line post and top rail with tie wire that is equally spaced. Fabric will be attached to the tension wire with hog rings that are equally spaced. Refer to following for proper tie wire and hog ring spacing per ASTM Standards

Chain Link Fence Tie Wire and Hog Ring Spacing

• Fasten fabric to line post at intervals not to exceed 15”

• Fasten fabric to top rail at intervals not to exceed 24” starting @6” either side of line post loop tops

• Fasten fabric to tension wire with hog rings at intervals not to exceed 24” between line post

7. Installing Gates: If your fence includes gates, install them according to the industry standards and/or manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the gate frames are level and secure, and attach the necessary gate hardware, such as hinges and latches.

8. Finishing Touches: Once the fence and gates are securely installed, inspect the entire structure for any loose connections or areas that may need additional reinforcement. Make any necessary adjustments and ensure all components are properly fastened.

Remember, this is just a general overview of chain link fence installation using the basics. It’s essential to refer to specific installation instructions as provided by ASTM and industry best practices for your fence materials. Additionally, local building codes and regulations may vary, so it’s important to consult with local authorities as needed. With proper planning and care, you can successfully install a chain link fence to enhance the security and aesthetics of our customers property.

A complete and more detailed Chain Link Fence 101 Installation Guide is available from Thornton Fence Consulting Group, by emailing info@fenceconsultinggroup.com and making a request.

Tony Thornton is a 45+ year veteran of the fence industry and is a subject matter expert in all areas of fence and gate automation. His passion is to elevate and promote the fence industry in a professional manner and provides consulting services to support fence industry owners in understanding how to implement effective procedures into their operation and maximize their profitability.

Thornton Fence Consulting Group

4261 East University Drive

PMB #30-108

Prosper, Texas, 75078

Phone: 972-533-3658

Website: www. fenceconsultinggroup.com

Email: info@fenceconsultinggroup.com