How to Set Chain Link Fence Posts?
A chain link fence is an excellent way to protect your property from intruders and to keep pets and children safely contained. It can be made with different types of materials, including galvanized steel and aluminum. Before installing your fence, you’ll need to decide how tall it will be and where to place the posts.
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Then you’ll need to install the fence fabric, which consists of chain link mesh. You’ll want to purchase enough fence material to cover the perimeter of your property, including any gates you plan to install. It’s typically sold in rolls, 4 feet, 5 feet, and 6 feet high.
Start at a terminal post and unroll the chain link mesh along the outside of your fence line, removing any slack as you go. Weave a tension bar through the mesh at the end of each roll. The tension bar stabilizes the mesh and makes it easier to attach to fence posts.
Step 4 – Set the Fence Up
Dig holes for corner, gate, and end posts and install them. These posts should be about 50mm higher than the chain link mesh and leave a small gap underneath to ensure that water doesn’t saturate the posts.
You’ll need to use concrete to set these posts, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and pouring the mix. A mix of 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, and 4 parts gravel is ideal. You’ll also need a level and tamping powder.
Next, mark the location of each post on the ground using a masonry guide string. This will serve as a reference point when you set the posts in concrete or drive them 1/8-1/4″ from the string line.
Once the fence is set, you can move on to installing the chain link rails and top rail. This will keep the posts from sagging and add extra security.
After the rails are set, fit them into the rail caps and tighten the brace bands to secure the rail height. The rail cap should be set so that the bottom rail is about two inches above the ground and the top rail is one inch above the bottom rail. You’ll also need to cut the rails if they’re too long or the top rail is too short.
If you’re installing a 6-foot fence, you’ll need to cut the bottom rails to the correct length. This is easier if you cut them on an angle and then square the ends.
Remove any excess fabric from the stretcher bar before you hook the come-along puller winch to it. Most recently manufactured chain link will spin out counter-clockwise, while older versions may turn out clockwise. If yours does, you may need to open the top and bottom diamonds of the fabric, twist them and remove any excess strands.
Using the come-along puller, pull the fence fabric taught or it will droop and sag. This requires a bit of muscle, Christofora says, so you’ll need a helper or two.
