Chain link fence typically uses 5/16 inch diameter carriage bolts in lengths from 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inch. The correct length depends on the thickness of the hardware being bolted, so measure your tension bands or brace bands before ordering.

Galvanized carriage bolts are highly corrosion-resistant but not completely rust-proof. Hot-dip galvanizing provides much better protection than electro-galvanizing. For coastal or extremely wet environments, stainless steel bolts offer the highest protection.

Yes. Carriage bolts use standard hex nuts. A flat washer under the nut is recommended to distribute load and protect the hardware surface from the nut edge.

Hot-dip galvanizing produces a thicker zinc coating applied by dipping the bolt in molten zinc. Electro-galvanizing deposits a thinner, smoother layer through electroplating. Hot-dip provides significantly better long-term corrosion resistance.

The square neck under the domed head bites into the wood or hardware when the bolt is pulled through a square-punched hole, preventing the bolt from spinning while the nut is tightened from the other side.

Standard chain link fence installation uses approximately 3 to 5 tension bands per terminal post, each requiring 1 carriage bolt and nut. Gate posts use additional brace bands and hinges, each also requiring one bolt.

Yes. Carriage bolts are driven by tightening the nut with a wrench or nut driver while the domed head holds flush on the other side. A socket wrench or adjustable wrench in the correct size is the standard tool.

Hot-dip galvanized fasteners are generally acceptable for use with modern ACQ and CA pressure-treated lumber, though stainless steel provides the best long-term compatibility with treated wood chemicals.

A 5/16-18 carriage bolt (18 threads per inch, the standard coarse thread) uses a 1/2 inch hex nut. Always match the nut thread spec to the bolt thread spec.

We sell galvanized carriage bolts in bulk packs for fence installation projects. Bulk pricing reduces the per-unit cost significantly compared to buying individual bolts. See the product listing for available pack sizes.