Identifying the Various Chain Link Fence Parts by Name
Are you planning to build your own chain link fence, or is your existing fence falling apart and you’re hoping to upgrade it? Whatever the case, your first step should be identifying the essential chain link fence parts by name. Once you have the names of the parts, acquiring them is straightforward. To help simplify the process, All American Fence Erectors has created this helpful infographic, highlighting the most important fence hardware used in a standard installation.
Knowing Your Chain Link Fence Components By Name
The basic structure of a chain-link fence is simple. You have the posts, the mesh (typically sold in rolls), the rails, and a few attachments for structure and stability. Together, these elements form the complete fence framework. Once you know what you need, the next step is to figure out how much linear footage you must cover. From there, you can determine the quantity of fence components to buy.
The graphic above matches the images to the names of key chain link fence parts. You can purchase all of these individually from a trusted retailer.
A Few Notes About Installing Chain-Link Fences
Purchasing the necessary fence parts is only half the battle. Fence installation is the real challenge. The most important part of the installation is setting your posts. If you don’t get this right, every other part of the job will be a waste of time. Posts should be installed 18 to 24 inches beneath the ground and secured with concrete footings to ensure stability. The concrete should be given 2 to 4 days post-casting to cure. Only then can you safely install the railings and mesh. This step is essential, especially in colder regions where frost movement can affect a frost fence.
Also, note that if your installation includes a chain-link gate, the list of requisite chain-link fence components is more substantial and includes additional rails, gate hinges, and gate latches. If you’re unsure where to start, contact professional fence installers experienced in residential fencing and commercial fencing for assistance. It is best to hire fence installation professionals since they know all the chain link fence part names, processes, and will advise you accordingly for long-term fence maintenance. You must be aware of all certifications your fence installation contractor should have.
Below are descriptions and names of vital chain-link fence parts you must know as a DIYer:
Terminal Posts
Terminal posts, also called corner posts or end posts, form the primary structural foundation of a chain-link fence. These heavy-duty vertical posts are responsible for anchoring the entire fence system and absorbing the greatest amount of stress from wind, tension, and gate movement. Properly installed fencing and terminal posts are essential for long-term strength and the prevention of frequent fence repair.
- Positioned at fence ends, corners, and gate openings
- Larger in diameter than line posts to handle added stress
- Set firmly into the ground with a concrete footing
- Designed to resist wind pressure, force, and gate weight
- Serves as the main anchoring point for fence tension
- Finished with protective terminal post caps
Line Posts
Line posts play a vital supporting role by maintaining alignment between terminal posts. Although they bear less load, they are critical to keeping the fence straight and properly reinforced over long distances. These chain link fence parts ensure structural consistency throughout the fence line and are great for keeping your commercial property and business secured.
- Installed between terminal posts, typically spaced about 10 feet apart
- Set into the ground with concrete for added stability
- Hold the rails securely in place using brace bands and rail ends
- Proper placement helps prevent sagging and misalignment over time
- Topped with line post caps or protective eye tops
Top Rails
Top rails form the horizontal framework of a chain-link fence, connecting vertical posts into a unified system. They help distribute stress evenly and minimize movement caused by weather or daily use. These chain link fence part names are key to fence rigidity.
- Run along the top perimeter of the fence
- Similar to smaller-diameter posts but not anchored into the ground
- Connected to posts using brace bands and carriage bolts
- Commonly paired with a bottom tension wire to minimize flexing
- Help resist wind pressure, snow load, and other external forces
- These chain link fence parts contribute to a stable fence with minimal shifting under stress
Fence Mesh
Fence mesh, also known as chain-link fabric or diamond mesh, acts as the primary barrier. It provides security while maintaining visibility and airflow, making it one of the most recognizable chain link fence components.
- Sold in rolls for faster and more efficient installation
- Commonly made from galvanized steel for durability
- Attached to posts using tie wires
- Forms the main enclosure of the fence system
- Most frequently serviced during fence maintenance
Tension Bars and Bands
Tension bars and bands work together to keep the fence mesh tight and secure. These chain link fence parts ensure the mesh remains firmly attached to terminal posts, which is essential for durability and proper tensioning.
- Tension bars are flat steel pieces that run parallel to terminal posts
- Used to stretch the fence mesh into a firm, stable position
- Tension bands connect tension bars to terminal posts
- Help maintain even tension across the fence line
- Proper installation is critical to long-term fence performance
Hire an experienced and licensed fence contractor for your professional chain link fence installation to ensure the fence mesh is appropriately tensioned.
Caps
Caps are names of finishing chain link fence parts installed on top of fence posts to protect the structure and enhance safety. Though small in size, they play an important role in preventing damage while giving the fence a clean, finished appearance.
- Installed on top of all chain link fence posts
- Line posts use line post tops, also known as eye tops
- Terminal posts use terminal post caps, commonly called ball caps
- Prevent rain, debris, and insects from entering hollow posts
- Adds both protection and visual appeal to the fence system
- Maybe paired with post sleeves for added protection
Contact Us for Professional Chain-link Fence Installation
If you’re looking for a company to install chain-link fence parts for you professionally, All American Fence Erectors has you covered. We do installations for residential fencing and commercial fencing across California. Also, we stock and offer all the chain-link fence components you may need in our 5,000 sq ft Hesperia warehouse. This allows us to give you the best deals for your DIY installations.
Call for your free estimate today and start your installation in 3-6 weeks.
