How Much Does It Cost to Install a Chain Link Fence?

Average range: $2,000 - $5,000
Low
$1,035
Average Cost
$2,780
High
$7,250
(200 ft. long 4 ft. high 9 gauge 2 in. diamond galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard with a 4 ft. wide gate)

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How Much Does It Cost to Install a Chain Link Fence?

Average range: $2,000 - $5,000
Low
$1,035
Average Cost
$2,780
High
$7,250
(200 ft. long 4 ft. high 9 gauge 2 in. diamond galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard with a 4 ft. wide gate)

Get free estimates from fence contractors near you
Here's what happens next
Step 1
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Tell us what you are looking for.
Step 2
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Updated:
Reviewed by Irene Pomares. Written by Fixr.com.

Known by many names, such as hurricane fence, cyclone fence, wire mesh fence, or diamond mesh fence, a chain link fence is an inexpensive and popular fencing option. Chain link fences are made by creating a mesh out of wires that run vertically top to bottom. The wires are bent around each other at a 45-degree angle, either in a knuckle or twist pattern that creates a diamond pattern. This type of fence allows for the wind to pass through, making it a popular choice for areas that experience extreme weather.

The price for chain link fence installation varies widely. Cost factors include the height of the fence, the material the fence is made of, and labor costs. The average cost to install a chain link fence ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, with the average homeowner spending $2,780 for a 200 ft. long, 4 ft. high, 9 gauge, 2 in. diamond galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard with a 4 ft. wide gate. The lowest cost for chain link fence installation is about $1,035 for a 100 ft. long, 3 ft. high, 11 gauge, 3 ½ in. by 5 in. diamond, galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard. The high end is $7,250 for a 420 ft. long, 6 ft. high, 9 gauge, black vinyl coated chain link fence with a 10 ft. by x 6 ft. double swing gate.

Chain Link Fence Prices
National average cost $2,780
Average range $2,000-$4,000
Minimum cost $1,035
Maximum cost $7,250


Chain Link Fence Installation Cost by Project Range

Low
$1,035
100 ft. long 3 ft. high 11 gauge 3 ½ in. by 5 in. diamond galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard
Average Cost
$2,780
200 ft. long 4 ft. high 9 gauge 2 in. diamond galvanized steel chain link fence installed in a yard with a 4 ft. wide gate
High
$7,250
420 ft. long 6 ft. high 9 gauge black vinyl coated chain link fence with a 10 ft. by x 6 ft. double swing gate

Installing a chain link fence is more affordable than other fencing options. This type of fencing can be a great option for front yards or backyards. Prices below reflect installing a 4 ft. tall, 2 in. diamond, galvanized steel chain link fence. Keep in mind that costs vary depending on the type and height of the fence. The cost for one linear foot of materials, including fencing fabric, posts, hardware, and top rail 1, is around $5.40 per linear foot.



Fence Length Cost (Materials Only)
100 Feet (Small Front Yard) $500 - $725
200 Feet (Small Backyard) $1,000 - $1,200
300 Feet (Medium Backyard) $1,550 - $1,825
420 Feet (Quarter of an Acre) $2,100 - $2,450


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For those with large yards, you may need to gather different pricing information from fencing companies. An acre constitutes 43,560 square feet of land. If you live in a rural area, you may need to collect chain link fencing cost per acre estimates. These fences are considered for large areas because they are the most economical. Picket or vinyl fences for acres of land cost over five figures. The following are chain link fencing costs per acre for materials only.



Size Cost for Materials
¼ Acre $650 - $1,000
½ Acre $800 - $1,900
1 Acre $1,500 - $4,000
2 Acres $2,500 - $6,000
3 Acres $4,250 - $8,500


When deciding to install this type of fence on your property, it’s important to consider the different height options. Many municipalities or HOA’s have a code that dictates the acceptable heights of fences in different situations. Keep in mind that there are usually different requirements for the front yard or back yard. Also, note that the higher the fence, the more security you will have. It’s much easier to hop a 3 ft. fence than a fence 6 ft. or higher. Prices vary depending on the height of the chain link. For this chart, prices are recorded for 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel with 2 in. diamond, as this is the most common type of chain link fencing used. Prices may vary slightly based on the supplier. Heights listed below are the most common for residential uses. Taller chain link fences can be found, usually for industrial applications.



Height Cost per Foot (Materials Only)
3 ft. $2.25 - $3.00
3 ½ ft. $2.75 - $3.25
4 ft. $3.15 - $3.50
5 ft. $3.80 - $4.10
6 ft. $5.25 - $5.40
8 ft. $6.25 - $6.55
10 ft. $7.85 - $8.25
12 ft. $9.50 - $10.00


Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire used in chain link fencing. There are five common thicknesses. The lower the gauge, the thicker the wire. The thicker the wire, the stronger the wire and the stronger the fence. Prices increase as thickness increases. For comparison purposes, prices in the chart reflect a 6 ft. high, 2 in. diamond, galvanized stainless steel fence.



Gauge Price per Foot (Materials Only)
11 ½ Gauge (0.113") $2.70 - $2.80
11 Gauge (0.120") $3.15 - $3.25
10 Gauge (0.130") $4.20 - $4.30
9 Gauge (0.148") $5.25 - $5.30
6 Gauge (0.192") $8.60 - $8.75


Chain link fences can be made with different sizes of diamonds. Some types of fences, like swimming pool fences, have requirements for diamond size for safety purposes. In general, the smaller the diamond, the stronger and more secure the fence. The diamond is measured diagonally in both directions. The inside dimensions are used, and the most common sizes are 1 in., 2 in., and 3 ½ in. by 5 in. The smaller the diamond, the more expensive because more wire is used. The prices below reflect a 4 ft. high, 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel fence.



Diamond Size Price per Foot (Materials Only)
3 ½” x 5” $2.75 - $3.00
2” x 2” $3.00 - $3.50
1” x 1” $6.75 - $7.00


Several types of chain link fence gates are available. The type you need is usually determined by the size of the space where you want the gate installed. The three types are a swing gate, double swing gate, and a rolling gate. Within each type of gate, there are also variations in materials and design, affecting the price.



Type of Gate Cost (Materials Only)
Swing $95 - $140
Double Swing $183 - $295
Rolling $800 - $7,600


The cost for a basic chain link swing gate typically runs from $20 to $40 per linear foot 5 or $95 to $140 each. A chain link swing gate is generally installed in openings that range in size from 3 ft. to 6 ft. A gate is installed on terminal posts and swings open to let a person through. The gate latches shut on the opposite terminal post. Galvanized steel residential swing gates range in height from 3 ft. to 6 ft.

Costs for galvanized steel double swing gates range from $23 to $42 per linear foot or $183 to $295 each for heights up to 6 ft. A chain link double swing gate consists of two gate sections that meet in the middle to close. The stationary parts of the gate are attached to terminal posts. Double swing gates are typically installed in openings that measure between 6 ft. and 12 ft.

Prices for chain link rolling gates range from $50 to $200 per linear foot, depending on size and materials. This equates to $800 to $7,600 each. A chain link rolling gate works because the two wheels installed on the back support the track. Rolling gates take up less space. Instead of swinging open, they slide across to run parallel with the rest of the fence. The gate must be made wider to make room for the wheels bolted on after assembly. Prices increase for a chain link rolling gate if installing an automated opening system. Chain link rolling gate prices vary greatly. Rolling gates are generally used in openings ranging from 12 ft. to 30 ft. wide.


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Adding a gate to your chain link fence will allow entry into your yard. This can be for a person on foot or a vehicle. Different circumstances warrant a different size and type of gate. Most openings for a person to pass through are between 3 ft. and 6 ft. wide. For these widths, a swing gate is used. The height depends on the height of your fence. Larger openings are needed for vehicles. Gates for larger openings are either double swing gates or rolling gates. Most people choose a gate that matches the style and material of the rest of their fence. Gate prices for this type of fence fluctuate based on the size and materials used. The prices in this chart reflect a basic 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel gate. Prices increase significantly when using heavy-duty rolling systems, automated systems, or more expensive materials than galvanized steel.



Gate Size Cost (Materials Only)
3’ x 3’ Swing Gate $100 - $150
4’ x 4’ Swing Gate $110 - $175
5’ x 5’ Swing Gate $125 - $200
6’ x 6’ Swing Gate $135 - $225
8’ x 6’ Double Swing Gate $250 - $300
10’ x 6’ Double Swing Gate $275 - $325
12’ x 6’ Double Swing Gate $280 - $350
12’ x 6’ Rolling Gate $700 - $1,000
14’ x 8’ Rolling Gate $900 - $1,500
16’ x 8’ Rolling Gate $1,000 - $1,800
20’ x 8’ Rolling Gate $1,100 - $2,000


Cyclone Fence Cost by Finish

Chain link fencing is also referred to as cyclone or hurricane fencing because it’s widely used in hurricane-prone areas. Wind and water can easily pass through chain link fencing, while other types of fencing are often flattened during major storms. Several finishes are available for chain link fencing. Each comes with its own set of pros, cons, and price. For comparison, hurricane fence prices in this table reflect a 4 ft. fence with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds.



Finish Cost per Linear Foot
Galvanized $3.15 - $3.40
Aluminum Coated $3.75 - $4.00
Vinyl Coated $5.75 - $6.50
Aluminum $8.00 - $10.00
Stainless Steel $9.00 - $11.00


Expect galvanized chain link fence to cost $3.15 to $3.40 per linear foot for 4 ft. fencing with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds. Galvanized chain link prices are competitive among manufacturers due to the popularity of the fence type. The galvanization process allows the fencing to last longer, but scratches and other wear can still cause it to rust and break down eventually. This type of fencing has an industrial look but still gets the job done to keep kids and pets securely in the yard.

Aluminized chain link fence cost should be near $3.75 to $4.00 per linear foot for 4 ft. fencing with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds. Adding an aluminum coating to a steel chain link fence adds an extra layer of protection and strength. The aluminum finish adds a smooth, bright finish and extra corrosion resistance. Aluminum is also lightweight. The coating is applied before the weaving of the fence is done.

Expect the vinyl coated chain link fence cost to be near $5.75 to $6.50 per linear foot for 4 ft. fencing with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds. Plastic coated chain link fencing is the best choice when investing in a cyclone fence. The plastic coating protects the metal from harsh saltwater. The coating also helps protect your fence from rusting and makes it last longer even if you don’t live in a hurricane-prone location. In addition, choosing a vinyl coated fence gives you the option to choose the color for your fencing. The most common colors are black, brown, green, and white. The downsides of this type of fencing are that it’s expensive, and the vinyl coating will eventually break down or tear off.

Costs are higher for aluminum, coming in at $8.00 to $10.00 per linear foot for 4 ft. fencing with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds. Choosing an aluminum chain link fence gives you a very light material. Aluminum is corrosion resistant and has a more pleasing look than galvanized steel. Very little maintenance is needed. Aluminum fares well when dealing with harsh sea coast conditions. An aluminum fence’s long life and low maintenance make up for the initial cost.

The cost for stainless steel chain link fencing should be near $9.00 to $11.00 per linear foot for 4 ft. fencing with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds. Stainless steel chain link fencing is more durable than galvanized chain link. Stainless steel offers alkali resistance and will not sag or roll up at the bottom. It offers high temperature and weather resistance and is strong and springy.

Colored chain link fences are an option that homeowners have instead of choosing a metallic color. The color selected usually depends on the purpose of the fence and the aesthetic you desire. The following are popular color choices for these fences. Keep in mind that colored fences come at a higher price point than standard types. However, since the color is achieved by covering the chain link with vinyl, it may last longer due to rust prevention.



Color Cost per Foot (Materials Only)
Black $4.00 - $6.50
Green $4.25 - $7.00
White $6.00 - $8.50


The most common vinyl chain link is black-colored models. The purpose of black chain link fences is to blend in and not stand out in the same manner as standard versions. If black is too harsh looking, some manufacturers offer a brown vinyl color selection for their chain link fences. On average, black chain link fence cost per foot is $4.00 to $6.50.

The cost of green chain link fence is typically close to black chain link fence. Green is usually a more popular choice for those looking to add a garden fence to their properties. Green fences are also used often to fence off recreational areas. Green chain link fence cost averages between $4.25 to $7.00 per foot for materials only.

White chain link is less common but can be purchased for residential use. White chain link fences have a stately appearance but require regular maintenance to keep clean. They work best for small yards or for areas that don’t contain pets. Pets may jump on the fence and scratch off the white coating or dirty it with muddy paws. White chain link fence cost averages around $6.00 to $8.50 per foot for materials.

Chain Link Fence Post Cost by Material

The fence posts 2 for chain link fences are traditionally made from metal. However, wood, vinyl, and concrete are also used. Several different types of posts are used. Terminal posts are set for gate posts or end-to-end connection. Line posts are set between terminal or gate posts to support the fence. The spacing of the posts ranges from 4 ft. to 10 ft. apart, with most homeowners opting for 6 ft. or 8 ft. spacing. The price of chain link fence posts is between $7.25 and $50 each, depending on the material, height, and any desired decorative qualities.



Post Material Cost (Materials Only)
Metal $7.25 - $35
Wood $10 - $50


Metal fence posts range in price from $7.25 to $30 each. Prices vary depending on thickness, height, and gauge of metal. Metal posts resist rot and pest damage and stand up to strong winds. Metal posts make sense because it matches the rest of your fence and offers the support that your fence needs. They can be found in matching colors if you opted for a vinyl coated fence. Colored posts range in price from $10.25 to $35.

Wood Post Chain Link Fence

Some homeowners would like to add a natural element to their chain link fences and opt for using wood fence posts. In most instances, an entire wood frame is built, and then chain link mesh is stretched across it. The downside to using wood is that it is prone to rot and cannot withstand high winds as well as metal. Wood posts can be pressure-treated, vinyl-coated, or natural. Costs for wood fence posts range from $10 to $50 per post.


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Labor costs for installation range from $10 to $21 per linear foot. When material costs are added, the chain link fence cost per foot installed is between $15 and $30. Costs vary based on the material of the fence, height of the fence, and the area where you live. Costs are higher in areas with a higher cost of living. It’s very important to get the fencing fabric tight when installing a chain link fence. Digging fence holes and setting them in concrete is labor intensive. Opting for expert installation means that your fence will be installed right the first time, posts will be strong, and the fabric will be tight.

The process of installing a chain link fence involves many steps. First, the area must be cleared if necessary, and post holes dug. Then, the posts are set in concrete. After the concrete cures for a few days, the rest of the fencing can be installed. Once the concrete is ready, post hardware can be installed, including post caps 3 and brackets. Post caps are installed on each terminal cap. Offset loop post tops are installed on the posts that the rail runs through. Next, the fence rails are installed. After that, the chain link wire “fabric” is strung tightly between the posts and attached with brackets 4. Last, gates are installed. The entire process takes around one week.

If you need to install a chain link fence on concrete, there are a few options. A hole can be cut in the concrete, and fence posts can be sunk into the hole. The other option is to weld mounting brackets 5 to the bottom of the post, sink anchors into the cement pad, and screw the brackets into the anchors. The price to cut concrete ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot.

When it comes time to replace a chain link fence, a few things can happen. If the fence posts are still in good shape, but the fencing mesh is damaged, it’s possible to replace it. Replacing the fencing mesh costs between $7 and $12 per linear foot.

If the entire fence needs to be torn down and replaced, chain link fence removal costs between $3 and $5 per linear foot. This involves ripping out the posts and removing all fencing. Keep in mind that old fencing can be sold or taken to scrap yards to recoup some of the cost. Ask your contractor if they are interested in purchasing the old fencing for a price reduction. The average cost to remove a chain link fence and replace it will be $15 to $30 per linear foot.



Chain Link Fence Post Caps

Chain link fence post caps add a decorative element to your fence and play a vital role in protecting your fence. The post caps seal off the top of posts so that moisture does not get inside hollow fence posts and does not sit on the wood if using wooden posts. In chain link fences, the post caps on the line posts also allow the rails to go through. It’s important to find post caps that fit on whatever size post you are using. A variety of shapes and designs are available. Fence post caps for metal posts range in price from $0.59 to $30 each, depending on design and size. Fence caps for wood posts can be made of wood, metal, or resin. Many varieties are available, from plain to decorative, and even those that contain solar lights. Prices for caps for wooden fence posts range in price from $2 to $50 each.

Solar post caps add a nice finishing touch to your chain link fence. Instead of a basic cap, you may put some much needed illumination on select areas around your yard. Solar post caps are aftermarket products that won’t come standard with your fence installation kit. Once installed, the solar post caps can usually slide right over your existing caps. In other cases, you remove the original caps and replace them on top of the adapters with the solar types. The chain link solar post caps come in most standard sizes from 2-in to 3-in diameters. Chain link solar post caps range in price from $15 to $30 each.

As with all fencing types, there are pros and cons to choosing a chain link fence. Some of the chain link fence benefits include being resistant to extreme weather, easy to maintain, resistant to pests and rot, and the fact that it’s inexpensive compared to other fencing types. For the price, chain link fencing does its job of keeping pets and kids secure in your yard. Some of the downfalls of chain link fencing are that it looks industrial, does not provide privacy, adds minimal property value, and is not ideal for security. Chain link fences are usually a minimal height, making them easy to climb over and enter backyards. Residences usually rely on a lower gauge wire for their fences, making them less secure and easy to cut through with wire cutters.

If you are concerned about privacy, you may want to add extra features to your chain link fence. Chain link fences are not very good for maintaining privacy unless slats or privacy fabric is added.

Slats provide some privacy to your yard or property. Chain link slats are sold by the box. Chain link slats come in several colors to help your fence blend in with the rest of your property. A chain link fence with slats costs approximately $2 to $3 per linear foot for installation plus the cost of materials. A box of slats covering 10 linear feet of a 6 ft. tall fence costs about $55.

If you want some temporary privacy or want to add some color or interest to your chain link fence, you may opt for a fabric screen. Fabric screens are made from lightweight, printed material and are hung on the outside of the fence. They are meant to let air pass through, but not light, giving you privacy. They do not last as long as slats but may give you a more custom look. Privacy fabric for a chain link fence starts at around $0.95 to $1.10 a linear foot. Custom screens are available for as much as $5 to $6 a linear foot.


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A contractor will go over set requirements with you before installing your chain link fence. Homeowners can choose some of their spacing, but there are minimal and maximum recommendations. Fence manufacturers will recommend posts be spaced between 4 ft. and 10 ft. apart. Manufacturers never recommend more than 10 feet of space between posts. Post holes will be dug first, so this spacing is always calculated beforehand. The post hole depth is typically 18 to 24 inches and 6 inches in diameter. Terminal post holes will be larger and are meant to secure the fence. Terminal post holes measure about 30 inches deep and 8 inches in diameter. Chain link fences may have height restrictions, especially with local ordinances. In many towns, fences cannot be taller than six feet.

If properly maintained and repaired, a chain link fence lasts from 15 to 25 years or more. Treated wood or cedar fences last from 15 to 40 years. Vinyl fences last from 10 to 20 years. Chain link fencing lasts a long time for the price because it’s resistant to pests, rot, and the elements. Wood will eventually break down, and vinyl is susceptible to the elements. Both wood and vinyl are also not ideal for hurricane-prone areas.

Chain link fence maintenance is relatively easy compared to other fencing types. Take a look at the fence every few months or after major storms to ensure there are no broken or missing links, rust, or damaged top rails. Also, check to see that all gates are swinging properly, and all posts are still straight and forming a right angle. If you notice any rust or damage, get it fixed as soon as possible. This simple maintenance will prolong the life of your fence.

It’s also a good idea to clean your chain link fence once or twice a year. Simply spray off the fence with a high pressure spray from your garden hose or use a power washer if you have one. Professional pressure washing should be a standard part of homeowner maintenance that is performed on an annual basis. The average cost to pressure wash a fence is $180, which will remove any dirt and buildup that has accumulated over the months. Spring is typically a good time to schedule a pressure washing appointment and remove any winter grime from the fence.

If there is lots of grime and debris, use a bucket of soapy water or a borax solution to clean the fence. White vinegar can be used if mold is found on your fence. The homeowner can typically perform all maintenance tasks. However, if you cannot, a professional can be hired to clean and maintain a fence. Expect to pay $75 to $125 per hour for these services.



A black chain link fence is a galvanized steel 6 fence that has been vinyl coated to give it a black color. This vinyl coating helps to protect the fence and make it last longer. To compare, the cost for 4 ft. fence fabric with 9 gauge wire and 2 in. diamonds iS $3.00 to $3.25 per linear foot for galvanized steel $5.75 to $6.00 for black vinyl coating.

Galvanized steel will have a lifespan that extends longer than vinyl coated fences. Galvanized steel strengthens the metal, increasing how long the fence lasts. These fences may last up to 25 years. However, vinyl fences without galvanization last for less than 20. The strongest fences are galvanized fences with a vinyl coating over the top.

Vinyl fences are less likely to rust than galvanized fences. You’re more likely to find extended warranties with a vinyl-coated fence with options up to 15 years. Those without the coating may only have a warranty of up to 10 years.

A vinyl fence costs close to double what a chain link fence costs. Vinyl 7 fences provide privacy and come in a variety of textures, designs, and colors. However, vinyl will not last as long as a chain link fence and is not good at withstanding high winds and intense weather. Some people opt for a nicer looking vinyl fence in their front yard and install a chain link in the backyard where curb appeal doesn’t matter. The cost for a 200 ft. vinyl fence is around $5,600 installed. The cost for a 200 ft. chain link fence is around $2,663 installed.

A welded wire fence is also made out of wire. However, the wire forms a square or rectangular pattern instead of diamonds. This type of fence can be installed on wooden frames or metal posts. Welded wire comes in steel, galvanized steel, and PVC coated in many gauges and square sizes. Gauges of 14 or 16 are the most common. The cost for 5 ft. tall 14-gauge welded wire is $1.32 per linear foot. Chain link fencing that is 5 ft. tall and 11 gauge costs $2.67 per linear foot. When considering a chain link vs. wire fence, keep in mind that a welded wire fence will be cheaper than a chain link fence, but the wire is not as strong.

A barbed wire fence is most often used in ranching situations, as it’s effective for keeping livestock. Some people add barbed wire to the top of chain link fencing to make it more secure and keep out unwanted visitors. A complete barbed wire fence is constructed by installing either wooden or metal posts and then stringing 8 the barbed wire tightly between them. The barbed nature of barbed wire can poke and scratch, making it a poor choice for urban environments. The average cost to install barbed wire fencing is between $2.50 to $5 per linear foot, making this a very inexpensive option. In contrast, you can expect to pay an average of $11 to $24 per linear foot for chain link fencing.

A wood fencewill be considerably more expensive than chain link fencing. However, wood fencing offers a more pleasing and natural design, privacy, and security. Wood fences can last just as long or longer than chain link fences and come with various design options. The average cost for installing a wood fence is around $4,500. The average cost to install a chain link fence is around $4,500. The average cost to install a chain link fence is around $2,700.

Cost effectiveness is just one reason why homeowners choose a chain link fence over a wood fence. Wooden fences are not always practical for large areas that need fencing, especially square footage measuring over a half acre. Chain link fences are usually quicker to install and last longer than a wood fence. Wood fences may start to lean or rot in five years, while chain link fences have lifespans of twenty years or longer. Wooden fences require a lot of maintenance to make them last, including routine pressure washing. Chain link fences can just be cleaned with a hose from time to time in most cases.


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Enhancement and Improvement Costs

It’s possible to make a chain link fence taller. This might be necessary to contain a jumping dog or to add more security to your property. Fence posts can be covered with longer posts to increase the height of the fence. After this, new chain link mesh can be attached, and then the same top rails can be placed back on top. Expect to pay about $15 to $19 per linear foot to increase a 4 ft. to a 6 ft. chain link fence.

If you would like your chain link fence a certain color, would like to revamp an old fence, or would like extra protection for your fence, painting is an option. To paint a chain link fence, it just needs to be clean and free of debris. A roller makes it easy to apply the paint with a little touch-up work from a brush. First, use an oil-based primer 9 designed for metal and then use an oil-based rust-inhibiting aluminum flake paint. Materials plus labor is about $5 to $7 per linear foot.

Barbed Wire Fence Cost

If you are interested in adding extra security to your chain link fence, adding barbed wire to the top may be a good solution. You can accomplish this in a few different ways. Consider installing 8 ft. tall posts for a 6 ft. tall chain link fence and then wrapping barbed wire around the additional 2 ft. of the posts. Extra vertical “Y” arms can also be installed on fence posts if you would like the barbed wire to form an angle. Adding barbed wire to the top of a chain link fence costs between $1 and $3 per linear foot.

Additional Considerations and Costs

  • DIY. If you are handy and have the proper tools available, you can install a chain link fence yourself. It’s most important to make sure that fence holes are deep enough, at least 2 feet, or ⅓ of the post’s above ground height, and that the mesh fabric is tight. This is accomplished by using a stretcher bar to tighten the mesh.
  • Pet Containment Fences. If you are considering installing a fence to contain a large dog, keep in mind that chain link fences are easy to climb. The best chain link fence gauge for dogs will be 6 or 9 gauge. If you have a dog that digs, it is important to regularly inspect the bottom of the fence and fill in any part of the ground that dips under the fence with bricks or stones. Tent stakes can also be used to secure the bottom of a chain link fence if you have a dog.
  • Land Clearing. The land needs to be cleared before installing chain link fences. If obstacles must be worked around, such as existing structures or trees that can’t be moved or removed, this can add $2 to $3 per linear foot to labor costs.
  • Permits. Check with your town or city hall before installing your fence to determine if a permit is necessary for installation. If so, submit the plans for your fence to the appropriate office to obtain a building permit. Once your fence is installed, it will be subject to inspection to ensure that it meets all relevant building codes.
  • Utility Company Approval. Because the posts for chain link fencing must be set in the ground, call your local utility company before installing the fence. They can ensure that you will not be digging where utility lines, gas pipes, or other unsafe lines are buried beneath your yard. Your utility company will mark unsafe areas at no cost to you so that you can safely install the fence.
  • Local Building Codes. Local codes and homeowner associations may have restrictions on the height of fencing installed in your area, particularly if that fencing will block sightlines. Always check with local authorities before installing fencing to ensure that you comply.
  • Alternative Fencing. Chain link fencing is just one option available to property owners. Other low-cost fencing includes vinyl fences at $5,000 to $7,500 for 200 linear feet installed and aluminum fencing at around $4,300 to $6,000 for 200 linear feet installed.
  • Type of Soil. Contractors may charge extra labor hours based on the soil type found at the property. For instance, if your yard is full of clay and rocks, digging may become challenging and increase the price. The cost to dig each fence post may be as much as $20 to $35 per hole based on soil conditions.
  • Land leveling. Before installing a new fence, homeowners will usually level the area by adding new soil. A level lot makes the installation of chain link fences go much smoother. Expect to pay an average of $4 to $8 for any land grading to prepare an area for a fence.

FAQs

  • How far apart should chain link fence posts be?

The spacing of chain link fence posts ranges from 4 ft. to 10 ft. apart, with most homeowners opting for 6 ft. or 8 ft. spacing.

  • How deep do chain link fence posts need to be?

Chain link fence posts should be buried at least 2 ft. deep or ⅓ of the post’s above ground height, whichever is greater.

  • Is chain link cheaper than wood?

Yes, chain link is cheaper than wood. The average cost for installing a wood fence is around $4,500. The average cost to install a chain link fence is around $2,700.

  • Is chain link fence the cheapest?

Chain link fencing is one of the cheapest fencing options, but it’s not the cheapest. Welded wire or barbed wire are both cheaper fencing options.

  • How to remove rust from chain link fences?

The first step in cleaning rust from chain link fences is to brush off debris and clean the fence with a jet of water. After this, scrub any remaining rust with a wire brush and spray or brush on a rust inhibitor.

  • Is installing a chain link fence hard?

Installing a chain link fences is not difficult, but it takes experience to get the mesh tight. It’s also important to secure the posts correctly in concrete and make sure that they are straight.

  • How much does it cost to fence 1 acre with chain link?

The cost to enclose 1 acre with a 4 ft. high 9 gauge galvanized stainless steel fence would be around $9,000 to $11,000 installed.

  • How much does it typically cost to install a fence?

The average cost to install a chain link fence is between $2,000 and $5,000. Prices vary based on the length and height of the fence and the fencing material used.

  • How to make a chain link fence gate close automatically?

There are ways to make a gate close automatically by using a tension device. These can be installed on a gate and cost around $40 to $60.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.
See full cheat sheet.
1 Rail: A long bar designed for a person to hold onto, giving them support. They are usually found on the sides of staircases, and can also be found in bathrooms, for example, to help persons with disabilities
2 Fence posts: A sturdy pole set securely in the ground, that is used to support a fence. Fence posts are placed at regular intervals, and the other parts of the fence are attached to them
3 Post caps: An optional fence design detail, positioned on top of each fence post, used to give the fence a "finished" look and to prevent water from entering the posts
4 Brackets: A support that projects outward from one surface to hold another surface to it, such as attaching a shelf to a wall or piece of furniture. Brackets can also be used to strengthen joins between two materials
5 Mounting brackets: (Also known as Mounting) A support on which something is attached or hung
6 Galvanized steel: Steel that has had a protective zinc coating applied to it to make it resistant to rusting
7 Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others
8 Stringing: An inclined structure used to support the treads and risers in a staircase
9 Primer: Preparatory coat applied to materials (drywall, wood, metal, etc.) before painting to ensure paint adhesion, extend paint durability, and help seal and protect the surface to be painted

Cost to install a chain link fence varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.

Updated:
The information provided by our cost guides comes from a great variety of sources, including specialized publications and websites, cost studies, U.S. associations, reports from the U.S. government, contractors and subcontractors, material suppliers, material price services, and other vendor websites. For more information, read our Methodology and sources
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Cost to install a chain link fence varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.

The information provided by our cost guides comes from a great variety of sources, including specialized publications and websites, cost studies, U.S. associations, reports from the U.S. government, contractors and subcontractors, material suppliers, material price services, and other vendor websites. For more information, read our Methodology and sources