Wise up about weak links
Stretching your chain link fence removes sagging from climbing, storms, and wear, restoring security and improving your fence’s curb appeal.
Addressing tension issues early prevents loose links from getting worse, helps your fence resist damage, and keeps it looking neat.
You’ll need tension bars, a fence stretcher, and tension bands, then pull evenly until your fence looks taut and sag-free.
Hiring a local chain link fence installation professional keeps the job safe and efficient, sets proper tension, and catches hidden issues early.
A sagging chain link fence is not only an eyesore, it’s also a liability. Loose chain link fences are more susceptible to damage, and they create opportunities for animals and trespassers to get onto your property. Learn how to tighten your chain link fence, secure your home, and restore its appearance for a boost in curb appeal.
Your chain link fence might be sagging and need tightening due to people climbing over it repeatedly, extreme weather (especially major storms), and wear and tear. Sagging in a chain link fence can compromise its overall functionality, and as the sags and gaps grow, wild critters, pets, and intruders will have an easier time bypassing the fence. In addition, a well-maintained chain link fence is more aesthetically pleasing than one suffering from visible wear.
Before embarking on this project, it’s advised that you do an overall assessment of your fence’s health. A fence that is rusty, corroded, or weak in multiple places might be in need of replacing rather than repair.
Building a fence requires specific equipment to ensure it is level, deep enough into the ground and properly fastened together. While you may be able to rent it from your local hardware store, we suggest contacting a pro with the proper tools and experience for the job.
With the help of a few key tools—including tension bars, a fence stretcher, tension bands, a wrench, and bolts—the process of tightening a chain link fence is an easy one that can be done in just a few hours.
Slide a tension bar vertically through the chain links at the end where you plan to tighten the fence.
Attach the fence stretcher to one end of the tension bar. The other end of the fence stretcher should be attached to a fixed point that can act as an anchor.
Pull the fence stretcher; apply even tension. The fence should begin to tighten. Stop pulling once the fence appears taut and all signs of sagging have disappeared. Be cautious to not over-tighten the fence, as this can put stress on the posts.
With the fence under tension, use a second tension bar at the pulling side to lock it into its new position. Slide the tension bar close to the post on the opposite end, making sure it covers the height of the fence.
Secure the tension bar to the fence post using tension bands and bolts. Using a wrench, tighten the bolts to secure the fence against the post. Repeat this as necessary throughout the fence line to maintain even tension.
Following these tips can extend the life of your chain link fence or aid you in purchasing a sturdier fence in the future.
Galvanized steel is coated with zinc, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion caused by extreme weather. Consider purchasing a fence made with thick gauge wires for extra strength.
When installing a new chain link fence, be sure to install it correctly. Your new fence should be secure, without any sagging. If you’re unsure about your ability to properly install a chain link fence, reach out to a local chain link fence installation pro.
Take time each quarter to walk around your fence and look for signs of wear and tear that need to be addressed, such as rust, sagging, or missing links.
As soon as you notice sagging or other damage, repair the fence. Tackling any small issues as soon as they happen can prevent them from growing into larger ones. This will help to maintain your fence’s overall structural integrity.
A tension wire or top rail can give your fence added strength and stability.
Going the DIY route to tighten a chain link fence can save you on labor costs—a professional will charge an average of $50 per hour for this work—but if you aren’t familiar with this kind of project, it might be best to bring in an expert. A pro can do a thorough assessment of your chain link fence and check for any other problems; fixing issues as soon as they appear will prolong the life of your chain link fence and keep it in optimal working order.
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