Chain Link Fence Calculator
Calculate chain link fabric, line posts, terminal posts, top rail and fittings for any chain link fence.
The chain link fence calculator returns every part of a chain link install: fabric, terminal posts (heavier posts at ends, corners and gates), line posts (lighter posts between), top rail, and the dozen small fittings that connect everything. Terminal posts always come in pairs at gates (one on each side) and singles at corners and ends. Line posts space every 10 ft for standard residential and 8 ft for tight residential or commercial work. Tension bars run vertically inside the fabric at each terminal post and connect with tension bands - the count of bands per post depends on fence height. The top rail comes in 10.5 ft sections that swage together end-to-end without couplings.
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Frequently asked questions
10 ft on-center is the standard residential spacing for 4-6 ft fences with 1-3/8 inch posts. 8 ft on-center for 8 ft commercial fences with heavier 1-5/8 or 2 inch posts. Closer spacing makes the fence stiffer and resists deformation from impacts but adds posts and concrete cost. Terminal posts always go at corners, gates and ends regardless of line post spacing.
Line posts are the regular posts spaced along straight runs - lighter gauge (typically 1-3/8 in for residential), only need to support the fabric vertically. Terminal posts are heavier (1-5/8 or 2 in OD), set deeper in concrete, and bear the horizontal tension of the fabric pulling on the end of the fence. Every chain link fence has terminals at corners, gates and ends.
One tension band per foot of fence height minus one - so 3 bands per terminal post for a 4 ft fence, 5 bands for a 6 ft fence. Tension bands hold the tension bar (which threads vertically through the chain link fabric) against the terminal post. A 100 ft 4 ft fence with 2 ends + 2 corners + 1 gate (5 terminals) needs 15 bands minimum, but always buy 20% extra - they are tiny and easy to lose.
9-gauge fabric for residential and most commercial work. 11-gauge for budget residential (thinner wire, fades faster). 6-gauge for industrial security applications. Mesh size: 2-inch mesh is standard for most uses, 1-3/4 inch for tennis courts and pool enclosures, 1-1/4 inch for high-security or small-animal containment. The fabric height should match the post height - 4 ft fabric for a 4 ft fence.
For most residential fences yes - it keeps the top of the fabric from sagging, gives the fence a finished look and adds rigidity. Skip top rail only on tall security fences (8+ ft) where a top tension wire and barbed wire arms replace the rail, or on light decorative chain link under 4 ft where the fabric stays taut on its own. Top rail comes in 10.5 ft sections that swage together end-to-end.