Understanding the different parts of a chain link fence makes installation, repairs, and maintenance much easier. Learn how each component of a chain link fence works and contributes to a a strong, long-lasting fence.
A chain link fence is comprised of the posts and mesh alongside bands, clamps, bolts, gate hardware, and more. Use the chain link fence diagram below to understand where each part of a chain link fence is used, and learn specific uses and installation tips for each component in this chain link fence guide.
Chain Link Fence Parts Diagram
Chain Link Fence Posts
Posts are the vertical poles that form the structural framework of a chain link fence. Each serves a different purpose depending on where it is placed. There are two major types of chain link fence posts: terminal posts and line posts.
Terminal Posts
Terminal posts are the sturdiest posts in a chain link fence because they are used at ends, corners, and gates. Terminal posts support the greatest amount of tension, and they are typically larger in diameter to accommodate the additional stress.
Terminal Post Installation Tips
- Set terminal posts deeper in the ground than line posts.
- Install terminal posts in concrete footing for maximum stability.
- Attach tension bands, brace bands, and gate hardware to terminal posts.
Line Posts
Line posts support the fence between terminal posts, keeping the chain link mesh upright. Line posts are typically placed every 8 to 10 feet, though spacing varies based on fence height, wind loads, and terrain.
Unlike terminal posts, line posts do not hold fabric tension. They are only used to support the top rail and chain link mesh.
Post Caps
Post caps protect the open end of the post pipes. Some styles provide attachment points for the top rail and others cover the pipe for a neat appearance.
End Clamps (T-Clamps)
End clamps form a three-way connection between top rails and a line post, securing them with a carriage bolt and nut. End clamps hold top rail firmly in place, whereas eye tops often allow slight movement. These are great for extending an existing fence or connecting chain link fence panels.
End Caps
End caps fit over the top of terminal posts and gate posts to protect the pipe and create a clean appearance. Be sure to use end caps the fit the outside diameter of your fence pipe.
Chain Link Fence Rails
Rails are the horizontal pipes that connect line posts and support the chain link fabric—this is the crucial piece for holding tension along the mesh. Top rails connect together with rail sleeves, pass through eye tops over line posts, and attach to terminal posts with rail end caps and brace bands.
Most residential chain link fences just use one continuous top rail along straight sections of the fence line. However, some heavy-duty fences also use botom rails or mid rails between posts to increase rigidity where more strength is needed.
Rail Ends
Rail Sleeves
Rail sleeves, also called rail connectors or rail adaptors, fit over the ends of two rails of equal diameter. This creates one continuous top rail, helping maintain proper alignment and increase overall fence strength.
Rail sleeves should fit snug over the pipe for a secure connection. Measure your rail's outer diameter before ordering to ensure a proper fit.
Chain Link Fabric (Wire Mesh)
The chain link fabric is the woven metal mesh that acts as the fence barrier. It's made by weaving galvanized or coated steel wire into a diamond pattern. The fabric attaches to terminal posts with tension bars and bands and to line posts with wire ties.
Wire Ties
Wire ties attach chain link mesh to rails, line posts, and tension bars. They play an important role in keeping the fabric aligned and preventing sag over time. Most residential wire ties are made from 9-gauge aluminum wire, though sturdier 11-gauge steel wire is available for heavy-duty fences.
Tension Bars
The tension bar is a flat steel bar woven vertically through the last chain link diamonds at terminal posts and gate frames. The bar connects to posts with tension bands and helps distribute tension evenly along the chain link fabric to protect the mesh from distortion.
Tension Bands & Bolts
Tension bands clamp the tension bar against the terminal post, helping distribute tension along the fence fabric for a taut and sturdy fence line. The number of tension bands needed varies depending on fence height and structural needs. A general guideline is to use one tension band for every foot of fence height, minus one. For example, a 4-foot fence needs 3 tension bands, and a 6-foot fence needs 5 tension bands.
Carriage Bolts
Gate Parts
Chain link fence gates may use many of the hardware covered above as well as additional pieces. Gates experience the most movement and regular use of any part of the fence, so quality hardware is essential.
Gate Corners
Gate corners are 90-degree elbow sleeves that connect two pipes in a gate frame. The pipes slide into the sleeve and are secured with bolts and nuts. Four gate corners are needed to build a gate frame.
Gate Hinges
Gate Latches
Gate latches keep the gate securely closed when not in use and allow access when needed. When choosing a gate latch, consider whether the gate needs to be lockable, accessibility and security requirements, and size.
Popular latch styles include fork latches, drop rods, gravity latches, and butterfly latches. Some latches are designed for specific purposes. For example, a pool latch automatically locks pool enclosures to prevent children and pets from entering the area, and kennel gate latches can only be opened with a certain movement to prevent dogs and other pets from opening the gate.
Rolling Gate Parts & Wheels
Commercial or heavy-duty fence gates often use cantilevered, sliding, or rolling gates instead of standard residential swing gates. Rolling and sliding gates can typically handle heavier loads and take up less space than swing gates. Regular inspection and lubrication is essential to maintain rolling gate hardware.
Conclusion
Every part of a chain link fence has a specific purpose. Posts provide structural support, rails keep the fence rigid, tension hardware stretches the mesh, and gate hardware ensures security and smooth operation.
Using durable, corrosion-resistant hardware is essential to build a strong and long-lasting chain link fence. Shop weather-resistant galvanized and black chain link fence hardware on jakesales.com, including post caps and rail ends, tension and brace bands, gate hinges and latches, and rolling hardware for both residential and commercial chain link fence installations.
FAQ
What parts do I need to install a chain link fence?
The main parts of a chain link fence are terminal posts, line posts, post caps, top rails, rail sleeves and rail ends, brace bands, chain link fabric, wire ties, tension bars and tension bands, and gate hardware such as hinges and latches.
What is a tension bar used for?
A tension bar is woven vertically along the end of chain link fabric and connected to fence posts with tension bands. The bar allows tension to be applied evenly to the entire fence height.
What is the difference between a brace band and a tension band?
Brace bands attach rail ends to fence posts, and tension bands secure the tension bar to terminal posts to hold the chain link fabric in place.
How far apart should chain link fence posts be?
Most residential chain link fences space line posts 8 to 10 feet apart, although spacing may vary based on fence height, wind loads, terrain, and local building codes.
What is the difference between a line post and a terminal post?
Terminal posts include the posts at the end of a fence line, at corners and turns, and at gates. Line posts are the posts along the fence line that support rails and fabric. Terminal posts are typically sturdier than line posts because they support the most tension.
How do you connect two top rails?
Top rails on a chain link fence are typically connected using rail sleeves, which slide over the end of each pipe to form one continuous rail.