Chain-link fences are not difficult projects
Q. We just got a puppy and my son is now old enough to go out in the backyard alone, so I want to install a chain-link fence. What materials do I need to get to install the chain-link fence myself?
A. For your situation, chain-link is the best fencing option. The materials are reasonably priced and readily available at most home centers. Although you should always check with your local codes and zoning before installing a fence, very few areas restrict chain-link fences.
Another advantage of chain-link fencing is it provides security in addition to safety and containment for your children and pets. Prowlers tend to avoid homes with fencing because it is difficult to carry items out over it. If you garden, the open weave of the chain-link fabric provides an excellent climbing surface for flowering vines.
The most difficult part of installing chain-link fencing yourself is handling the heavy rolls of fabric. To provide perimeter protection for a small child and dog, select a lighter-gauge chain-link fabric. This is less expensive and easier to handle than heavier wire. The only specialty tool needed is a fence puller to make it taut. This can be obtained at most tool rental shops.
Common galvanized chain-link fabric is used most often. It is corrosion-resistant and reasonably priced, but not particularly attractive. A more attractive chain-link option, but much more expensive, is color vinyl-coated fabric. Green is the most popular color for residential use. If you seek additional privacy, matching colored slats can be slipped diagonally into the fabric.
The height of fencing you want depends upon the size of your dog and whether or not you want to block other wildlife from entering your yard. Zoning codes generally restrict the maximum height of the chain-link fence. Check the codes thoroughly because the height limitation often vary depending on whether the fence will be in the front, side or backyard.
The basic components needed to install a chain-link fence are posts and top and bottom rails. These steel components are available in many wall thickness depending upon the strength required. A higher fence usually requires stronger posts and rails. Your material salesperson should be able to advise you as to the strength required for your specific project.
The main and corner posts are used for the primary support of the fence. Two diameters are typically available, but the smaller one, 1-7/8 inches, is probably adequate for your needs. For chain-link fences taller than five feet, the larger-diameter posts are recommended for support.
Smaller posts, called line posts, are usually spaced every four feet between the main and corner posts. They are also usually slightly shorter than the main posts. This creates a pleasing appearance. The top rails are even smaller in diameter. They are long to span across several line post. They pass through sleeve connectors which rest on top of the line posts.
An 11-gauge chain-link fabric with a two-inch diamond weave is commonly used for residential fencing. It is available in 50-foot rolls. Vertical tension bars, bands and wires attach the fabric to the line posts. The tops of the main posts are finished off with post caps. Eye caps are placed on the line posts and the top rail slides through them.
• Ms. Builder's column appears Sundays in Homes Plus. Send questions to Ms. Builder, c/o Daily Herald, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit dulley.com/msbuilder.
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