Identifying Various Chain-link Fence Parts By Name

Are you planning to build your own chain link fence? Or maybe your existing fence is falling apart and you’re just hoping to give it an upgrade. Whatever the case, the first step is to identify your essential chain link fence parts by name. When you know exactly what you need, acquiring the right parts is easy. We’ve created this helpful infographic to aid your process

Knowing Your Chain Link Fence Parts By Name

The basic structure of a chain-link fence is actually pretty simple: you have your posts, your mesh (typically sold in rolls), and your rails, along with a few attachments for structure and stability. Once you know what you need, the next step is to figure out how much linear footage you need to cover. From there, you’ll be able to determine how much to buy. For instance, when you know the size of the fence, you’ll know how many line posts to purchase, how many feet of mesh, how much tension wire, etc...

The graphic above identifies most of the key chain link fence parts by name, all of which you can purchase individually from All American Fence Erectors. We purchase all of the components in bulk and store them in our 5,000 sq. ft. Hesperia warehouse, which means we’re able to offer the best deals for your DIY chain-link fence installation. 

A Few Notes About Installing Chain-Link Fences 

Purchasing the parts you need for your chain-link fence is only half the battle. The installation is the real challenge. 

The most important thing is to properly set your posts. The rest of the job will be a waste of time if you don’t have a sturdy foundation. Posts should be installed 18 to 24 inches beneath the ground and set with concrete and cure for at least 2 to 4 days. Only then can you safely install the railings and mesh. 

Note also that if your installation includes a chain-link gate, the list of parts is more substantial and includes additional rails, hinges, and latches. If you’re not sure where to start, All American Fence Erectors can help. We handle chain-link fence installation throughout the High Desert, and we can also ensure that you have all the parts you need if you prefer to go the DIY route. Contact us today at (760) 948-2428 to get started. 

If you're planning to build your own chain-link fence or want to upgrade or repair an old fence that is falling apart, you must already know that identifying various components of a chain-link fence is very important. Various chain-link fence parts are used in the construction of the fence, such as terminal posts, line posts, top rails, fence mesh, tension bars, and caps. 

All these parts can be identified by their distinct features, which will help you build a sturdy and long-lasting fence. When you know the chain-link fence components you need, buying the right parts for the fence installation project is straightforward. Here are the different chain-link fence parts you need by name:

Terminal Posts

The structural foundation of your fence is made up of terminal posts or corner posts. They're the larger diameter vertical poles at each gate post, end post, and/or corner post that are firmly planted in the ground with a concrete footing to resist wind, pressure, and gate weight. Terminal posts are one of the chain-link fence parts critical to the fence's integrity. Regardless of the material used to build these posts, it's extremely important that they're well-embedded into the ground for strength and stability. 

Line Posts

Line posts are often planted between terminal posts. A 10' feet spacing is common between line posts, but it can be different. Line posts are usually planted in a concrete footing. Their main function is to hold the rails in place while also providing additional strength and reinforcement to the fence. Proper placement of line posts is critical in supporting the fence and keeping it from sagging.

Top Rails

Top rails are another critical chain-link fence part. These rails are similar to smaller diameter posts, but they aren't planted in the ground. Instead, they form the horizontal perimeter of the fence. In most cases, the most common chain-link fences have a top rail and a bottom tension wire that's meant to minimize the flexing that often happens at the bottom of the fence due to wind, the weight of snow, or other factors. They make for a very sturdy fence that minimizes movement or shift under stress.

Fence Mesh

Another chain-link fence part you need to know by name is the fence mesh. This is basically the chain-link portion of the fence. Because it's convenient and fast to install, wire mesh is most often sold in rolls. The most frequent chain-link fence component that must be replaced or repaired is the mesh, which is attached to line posts using tie wires. This chain-link fence part needs to be made of high-strength material; galvanized steel is the most common material used.

Tension Bars and Bands 

Tension bars, which are flat steel pieces that run parallel to the terminal posts, hold the fence mesh in place. They're used to stretch the fence mesh into a firm and stable position that can't be altered. Tension bands are used to tighten the tension bars in place and connect them to the terminal posts. Hire a trained and skilled fence contractor to do the professional installation to ensure the fence mesh is appropriately tensioned.

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Caps

Caps are the last of the chain-link fence parts you'll need. These are placed at the end of each structural chain-link fence component or post on your chain-link fence. Line posts will have a line post top or an eye-top, while each terminal post will have a terminal post cap or a ball cap. While these caps are not interchangeable, their use is vital to the safety and security of your chain-link fence. They also add appeal to the finished look of your fence. 

Contact Us for Professional Chain-link Fence Installation

If you’re looking for a company to install a chain-link fence for you professionally, All American Fence Erectors is here to help you. We serve residential homes as well as commercial properties with chain-link fencing installation. We have all the chain-link fence parts you need in our 5,000 Sq Ft Hesperia warehouse, ready to serve you at your location. Get your free estimate and start your install in 3-6 weeks. Contact us now.