Jun 27, 2025

How to Put Up a Chain Link Fence: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Are you thinking about putting up a fence around your property? A chain link fence might be your best bet if you are looking for a practical, budget-friendly, and long-lasting solution.

Chain link fences are incredibly versatile and serve a wide range of purposes. They are commonly used to secure residential yards, providing a defined and protected space for families.

Many homeowners also rely on chain link fences to create safe play areas for children and pets, offering peace of mind while maintaining visibility.

Now, if you have never used a chain link fence before, you may be apprehensive about installing it yourself. Fortunately, learning how to put up a chain link fence and DIY-ing it is simpler than you think.

In this guide, you will discover how to install a chain link fence correctly, from the step-by-step process to the tools and materials needed for the project.

NOTE: If you're exploring wood fencing instead, check out these essential wood fence tools and wood care products to ensure a clean and long-lasting build. And if you need to remove old wood posts, a fence post puller can save you serious time and effort.

For a broader overview of different fencing options and setup strategies, check out this complete fence installation guide from Fence Armor.

Planning Your Chain Link Fence Installation

Careful planning is the key to a smooth chain link fence installation before any digging or stretching begins.

This phase sets the foundation for everything that follows, from determining your fence's path to securing the proper permits.

Before you break ground, it also helps to review a complete guide to fence installation that outlines best practices for layout, prep, and structural planning.

Let’s break down the planning process step by step.

Assessing Property Lines

The first step is to determine exactly where your fence should be placed. You can define your boundaries using property markers, maps, or a surveyor.

This step is a must, as getting this wrong can result in having to move the fence later, especially if it crosses into a neighbor’s yard.

Obtaining Necessary Permits

Before you begin installing a chain link fence, check your local ordinances. Depending on your city or HOA, you might need a permit or have to follow specific fence height rules or setback requirements.

Measuring and Layout

Take time to measure your fence line. Use a tape measure and string line to outline the perimeter.

Mark post locations every 8–10 feet along the string using spray paint or stakes.

Clearly identify spots for corner posts, end posts, gate openings, and terminal posts. This layout will guide your digging and ensure even spacing.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you break ground, it is crucial to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand from the beginning will help your project flow smoothly and minimize frustrating delays.

A comprehensive list of essential fencing tools can help you ensure you’re prepared before starting the project.

From digging holes to stretching wire, every piece of equipment plays an important role in the installation process.

Essential tools include:

Post hole digger or auger
Level
Tape measure
String line and stakes
Shovel
Wrench set
Hacksaw or pipe cutter
Rubber mallet
Fence puller (come-along)

Some materials you will need for this project are:

Chain link fabric
Line posts (typically 1 5/8" diameter)
Terminal posts (end, corner, and gate posts, typically 2 3/8" diameter)
Top rail
Tension bands and bars
Brace bands
Post caps
Tie wires
Concrete mix
Gates and hardware

If you’re working with wood fences instead, using the right stain machine can make finishing your fence faster and more even, especially if you want to protect it from moisture and sun damage.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing a chain link fence may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools, proper preparation, and a bit of patience, you can achieve a secure and professional-looking result on your own.

This section breaks down each phase of the installation process, from marking your layout to hanging the gate. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your fence is straight, tight, and long-lasting.

1. Marking and Preparing the Site

Start by outlining the fence line using stakes and string. Make sure your line is straight and flat. Mark post locations like line posts, corner posts, and gate posts.

For example, if your fence runs 100 feet, you’ll need a post roughly every 8–10 feet.

2. Digging Post Holes

Use a post-hole digger or auger to dig your holes. Terminal posts (corner, end, and gate posts) should be set deeper than line posts, about 30 inches deep and 8 inches wide.

Line posts can be 24 inches deep and about 6 inches wide. Make sure to account for soil type: softer ground may need deeper holes.

3. Setting the Posts

Drop posts into the holes one by one. Use a post level to ensure each post is vertically straight. Before setting your posts in concrete, consider using a post-saver sleeve to protect them from rot and ground moisture.

Adjust as needed before adding concrete. Mix and pour concrete into each hole, filling up to a few inches below ground level. Taper the top of the concrete away from the post to shed water.

Let the posts cure for at least 24–48 hours before moving on. Check to ensure all posts are properly aligned with your string line and that they sit at the correct height above ground.

Adding a fence post guard to your terminal or gate posts can also protect against corrosion and mower damage.

4. Installing the Top Rail

Once posts are set, attach post caps to the tops of the terminal and line posts. Slide the top rail through the loops in the post caps.

Use a hacksaw or pipe cutter to trim the rail to the right length. Make sure rails fit tightly and are secure. This will help support the chain link fabric and keep the line straight.

5. Attaching the Chain Link Fabric

Roll out the chain link fabric next to your fence line. Starting at an end post, insert a tension bar vertically through the first set of chain link loops. Add tension bands around the terminal post and attach the tension bar using bolts.

Use a temporary tension band to hold the fabric in place as you work your way along the fence.

Be sure to keep the fabric flat and untangled. If you run out of length, simply splice another roll using a stretcher bar and fence ties.

6. Stretching the Fabric

Use a fence puller or come-along attached to a stretcher bar to stretch the fabric tight. You want it snug, but not so tight that it distorts the diamond pattern.

Once stretched, insert another tension bar at the final post and secure it with bands and bolts.

Tie the fabric to the top rail and line posts using aluminum fence ties every 12–18 inches. Space the ties evenly to keep the fence taut and secure.

7. Installing the Tension Wire

Tension wire helps reinforce the bottom of your fence, keeping it from sagging or being pushed out.

Run it along the bottom edge of the fabric and loop it through the end post using wire clamps or bands. Pull it tight using a tension tool or pliers, then fasten securely.

8. Installing the Gate

Position your gate posts and double-check spacing. Hang the gate by attaching hinges to the gate frame and terminal post. Install the latch hardware and test the gate to ensure smooth operation. Adjust as necessary to keep it level and aligned with the rest of the fence.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your chain link fence looking great and functioning well for years to come.

Start by walking the entire fence line every so often to check for issues like loose fence ties, sagging chain link fabric, or damaged posts that may have shifted over time.

Cleaning the fence is just as important. Hose off dirt, leaves, and debris that can collect along the wire and in crevices to help prevent rust and buildup.

For added protection against wear, rust, and damage, consider using chain link protection products designed to reinforce vulnerable areas like the bottom edge and posts.

You may also install a chain link fence bottom guard or fence guards for added support.

Finally, do not wait for small problems to become big ones. Tighten any loose bolts, replace worn-out ties, and patch any torn chain link sections as soon as you spot them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do You Install Fence Posts in the Ground?

Use a post hole digger to dig a hole to the appropriate depth. Place the post inside, level it using a post level, and fill the hole with concrete.

Let it sit for 24–48 hours to cure. This ensures a solid, stable base that will hold up over time and weather conditions.

How Do You Cut a Chain Link Fence?

Use a hacksaw or bolt cutters to snip through the chain link fabric. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid injury from sharp edges. For best results, follow a chain link cutting guide that details the safest and cleanest techniques.

How Do You Stretch a Chain Link Fence?

Insert a stretcher bar through the end of the fabric. Attach a come-along or fence puller and stretch the fabric until taut.

Then, secure with a tension bar and tension bands. Proper stretching is key to a tight, professional-looking finish that prevents sagging or gaps.

Key Takeaways on How to Put Up a Chain Link Fence

Putting up a chain link fence need not be complicated. With the right tools, a clear plan, and a bit of elbow grease, anyone can tackle this project.

With a chain link fence installed, you can rest easy knowing you can protect your pets, secure your space, and increase the curb appeal of your property.

If you are looking for more tools to help with future fence projects, check out Fence Armor’s products and collections today: