Chain Link Fence Post Concrete Calculator — Bags Per Post
Calculate concrete bags for chain link line, terminal, and gate posts. Includes hollow pipe volume subtraction and returns 60 and 80-pound bag counts.
Enter Dimensions
Typically 1/3 of post height above grade
Results
Bags per Post
5bags
Total Bags
50bags
Volume per Hole
1.909cu ft
Concrete per post hole
Total Volume
19.09cu ft
All post holes combined
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 uses three post types: line posts (thinner, more numerous), terminal posts (heavier, at ends/corners/gates), and occasionally heavy gate posts. Each has a different hole size and concrete volume. This calculator handles all three.
For other metal post applications (ornamental, security), see the Metal Fence Post Concrete Calculator.
How to Calculate Concrete for Chain Link Posts
Concrete per post (cu ft) = π × (Hole D ÷ 24)² × Depth × 12 − π × (Post OD ÷ 24)² × Buried Depth × 12.
Chain Link Post Reference
- Line post (2-3/8″ OD), 8″ × 30″ hole: 0.83 cu ft = 2 bags 60 lb.
- Terminal post (2-7/8″ OD), 10″ × 30″ hole: 1.36 cu ft = 3 bags 60 lb.
- Corner post (2-7/8″ OD), 10″ × 36″ hole: 1.64 cu ft = 3 bags 80 lb.
- Gate post (3-1/2″ OD), 12″ × 36″ hole: 2.27 cu ft = 4 bags 80 lb.
- Heavy commercial gate (4″ OD), 14″ × 42″: 3.40 cu ft = 6 bags 80 lb.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much concrete per chain link fence post?
Line posts (2-3/8 inch OD) in 8 inch × 30 inch hole: 0.83 cu ft = 2 bags of 60 lb fast-set. Terminal/corner posts (2-7/8 inch OD) in 10 inch × 30 inch hole: 1.36 cu ft = 3 bags. Gate posts (3-1/2+ inch OD) in 12 inch × 36 inch hole: 2.27 cu ft = 4 bags 80 lb.
What's the difference between line and terminal posts?
Line posts (intermediate) are thinner (1-5/8 to 2-3/8 inch OD) and shorter holes. Terminal posts (end, corner, gate) are thicker (2-3/8 to 3-1/2 inch OD), longer, and seated deeper since they anchor the fabric tension.
How deep do chain link posts go?
Line posts: 24-30 inch depth. Terminal posts: 30-36 inch (need extra depth to resist fabric tension). All posts should reach below the local frost line in cold climates.
Should I fill the inside of chain link posts with concrete?
No — chain link posts are designed to remain hollow. Filling them wastes material and adds weight without structural benefit. Concrete only goes in the annular space between the post outside and the hole.
Can I use Postmaster foam for chain link posts?
Yes — Sika Post Fix or similar expanding foam works for line posts and is significantly faster. Two cartridges replace 2 bags of concrete per post and set in minutes. Not recommended for terminal/corner posts where higher anchor strength matters.
Looking for the general calculator?
Calculate how many bags of concrete you need per fence post hole. Supports 4×4 and 6×6 wood posts plus metal pipe posts in standard hole sizes.
Open the Concrete Fence Post Calculator: Bag Count →