Chain Link Fence Calculator
Enter your fence length to get a complete chain link material list — line posts, fabric, top rail sections, and concrete bags. Uses the industry-standard 10-ft post spacing. Free, no sign-up required.
Chain Link Inputs
Material List
| Material | Base Qty | With Waste | Notes |
|---|
Formula
Post spacing maximum (10 ft) per Chain Link Fittings post spacing guide (typical range 4–10 ft; calculator uses 10 ft as the residential standard)
Chain Link Fence Components
Common components for a residential 6 ft chain link fence (not included in the base calculator — add these separately):
| Component | Qty per post | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal post (end/corner/gate) | As needed | Larger diameter than line posts; priced separately |
| Loop caps | 1 per line post | Threads top rail through line posts |
| Tension bars | 1 per end/gate post; 2 per corner post | Weave into fabric to anchor it to terminal posts |
| Tension bands | Fence height − 1 (min. 3) per terminal post | E.g. 5 bands for a 6 ft fence; spaced ~12–18 in apart |
| Rail end fittings | 1–2 per terminal post | 1 at a straight end post; 2 at a corner or gate post (one per rail side) |
| Tie wire | ~1 per 12 in of fabric | Attaches fabric to line posts and top rail |
Terminal post and fitting requirements vary by manufacturer. Confirm specifications with your supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chain link fence posts are typically spaced every 4 to 10 feet on center, with 10 feet being the maximum recommended spacing for residential installations (per chainlinkfittings.com). Taller fences, heavy winds, or privacy slats may call for 6–8 ft spacing. Commercial installations often use 8-ft spacing. End posts, corner posts, and gate posts are terminal posts and are placed at those specific locations regardless of line post spacing.
Fabric is sold by the linear foot in rolls (typically 50 ft, 100 ft, or custom lengths). Order fabric equal to your fence length plus 5–10% for corners and terminal post overlaps. The calculator outputs the linear footage needed.
Top rail is standard for residential chain link. It runs through loop caps on each post and provides the top edge for attaching the fabric. One top rail spans each 10-ft section. Some installations use a top tension wire instead of top rail to reduce cost, but top rail is more rigid and durable.
Line posts are the intermediate posts spaced 10 ft apart that support the fabric. Terminal posts (end posts, corner posts, gate posts) are heavier, larger-diameter posts at the structural anchor points. Terminal posts use different fittings (brace bands, tension bars) than line posts (loop caps). This calculator counts line posts; add terminal posts separately at each end, corner, and gate.
Line posts for a 4-ft fence are typically set 24 inches deep; for a 6-ft fence, 30–36 inches. Terminal posts (end, corner, gate) should be set deeper — at least 36 inches for a 6-ft fence. In frost climates, all posts must extend below the frost line. Verify with local code.
See also: Fence Calculator (all styles) · Post Spacing Calculator · Wood Fence Calculator