How to Install a Chain Link Fence Post?
Chain link fences can be a good choice for a wide range of properties and situations. They are easy to install and offer great strength, durability, and security. However, installing a chain link fence requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
(Looking for “post fence contractors“? Contact us Today!)
Identify the Post Locations
First, mark the locations of your end and corner posts with landscape stakes or spray paint. The posts should be spaced 6 to 10 feet apart, depending on the type of fence you’re building. Also, you might want to leave an additional 3 3/4 inches between each pair of posts if you intend to install a gate on the fence.
Dig Post Holes
Next, dig holes at each of your fence’s corners, gates, and end posts. The holes should be wider than the actual posts and about a third of their length deeper. You may need a post-hole digger to get them in place, but if you don’t have one, you can use large stones and compost to fill the holes until the concrete is set.
Once the corner, gate, and end posts are dug, fill the holes with concrete. You can use a ready-made cement mix or make it from scratch, using 1 part cement to 2 parts sand and 4 parts gravel. You’ll need a level and some large stones to help hold the posts straight while they’re set in the concrete.
Apply Tension Bands and Brace Bands to the Posts
Once your terminal and line posts are in the ground, apply tension bands and brace bands to each one. Each brace band should be attached to a post about 12 inches from the bottom, and each tension band should be about 12 inches from the top of each terminal and line post. Attach these to the fence by twisting wire ties at every 12-inch interval along the fence’s top rail.
Pull Tight the Mesh Roll
The fence mesh should be tightly pulled taught so it doesn’t sag. This can be accomplished with a come-along cable puller winch and stretcher bar. Insert the come-along tool about 3 feet short of the corner or end post you’re going to attach the mesh to. Hook the stretcher bar to it, and slowly pump the lever of the come-along tool until the end of the chain link material is pulled toward the terminal post. Once it’s tight, cut off the excess chain link and remove the come-along tool and the stretcher bar.
Tie Wires on the Chain Link Fabric
Before laying down the chain link fabric, tie some aluminum tie wires or fence ties to various points on the post and the top rail. These are 6 1/2-inch-long aluminum wires that allow you to connect the chain link to a variety of points on the post and the top rail. The tie wires are a good way to keep the fence clean, prevent it from blowing away, and add a touch of color.
