Chain Link Fence Calculator — Posts, Rails & Fabric
Estimate chain link fence posts, top rail, fabric, and tension wire for any straight perimeter. Sized for 4 ft, 5 ft, and 6 ft galvanized fence.
Enter Dimensions
Standard dog-ear picket: 3.5 in
Privacy fence: 0 in · Standard: 0.5 in
Results
Fence Posts
14posts
Rails
26rails
Pickets
330pickets
Sections
13sections
Each section = 8 ft wide
Editorial Standards
Each calculator is reviewed for formula accuracy, unit consistency, and alignment with current U.S. building practices before publication. We verify outputs against published engineering references and real-world project data. Learn more about our methodology.
Chain link fence is the most economical perimeter fencing in North America — galvanized steel posts on 10 ft centers, woven fabric, and a top rail tying it all together. Material lead time is usually 1–3 days at any large supplier, making it a popular backyard, dog-run, and commercial-yard option.
This calculator estimates line posts, terminal posts, top rail, and fabric for a straight-run chain link fence. Use the parent Fence Calculator for blended materials.
How to Estimate a Chain Link Fence
Line posts = ⌈(Length − terminal post count) ÷ 10⌉. Terminal posts = corners + gate posts + 2 end posts. Top rail = total length ÷ 10.5 ft (per stick). Fabric = total length, rounded up to nearest 50 ft roll.
Chain Link Quick Sizing
- Line posts: 1-3/8″ OD × 6 ft for 4 ft fence, 7 ft for 5 ft fence, 8 ft for 6 ft fence (24″ in concrete).
- Terminal posts: 1-5/8″ to 2-3/8″ OD depending on fence height — heavier and deeper than line posts.
- Top rail: 1-3/8″ OD pipe in 10.5 ft sticks; cut and swedged at posts.
- Fabric: 11.5-gauge galvanized for residential; vinyl-coated for decorative installs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart should chain link fence posts be?
Line posts go 10 ft on-center maximum (most installers use 8–10 ft). Terminal, corner, and gate posts get heavier-gauge steel and require concrete footings deeper than line posts.
What gauge chain link fabric should I buy?
11.5-gauge is residential standard for 4–6 ft fences. 9-gauge is heavier-duty for commercial and dog-run installations. 6-gauge is rare and intended for high-security perimeters.
How tall does chain link fence need to be for a pool?
Most U.S. jurisdictions require a 4 ft minimum (some 5 ft) fully enclosing a residential pool, with self-closing self-latching gates per IRC Appendix G. Always verify local code before ordering material.
Do I need tension wire on a chain link fence?
Yes — install bottom tension wire to prevent the fabric from being pushed up. Top tension wire is required only when there's no top rail (uncommon residentially).
How much does chain link fence cost per linear foot?
Materials: $8–$15 per linear foot for 4 ft residential galvanized. Add $10–$18 per linear foot for professional installation. Vinyl-coated black fabric runs ~30% higher than galvanized.
Looking for the general calculator?
Calculate fence posts, rails, and pickets for any wood, vinyl, or chain-link fence. Enter total run length and spacing for an instant material takeoff.
Open the Fence Calculator: Posts, Rails & Pickets →