Chain Link Fence Calculator
Calculate **chain link fence** materials including fabric, steel posts, and top rail. **Chain link calculator** for cost-effective security and containment fencing projects.
Formula & Explanation
Chain link fencing has a distinct structure from wood or vinyl: Posts (line posts) = ceil(fence_length ÷ spacing) + 1 (fencepost problem) Terminal posts = 2 (at start and end of straight run; more for corners or gates) Fabric is priced per linear foot and depends on height: Fabric (sq ft) = fence_length × fabric_height But typically priced as: fabric_cost = fence_length × cost_per_linear_foot Top rail runs the full fence length to support the fabric: Top rail (linear feet) = fence_length Total cost = fabric_cost + post_cost + rail_cost Post cost = (line_posts + terminal_posts) × post_cost
Assumptions
- •Line posts are standard steel (2.38" OD typical)
- •Terminal posts are heavier gauge for end/corner support
- •Fabric is woven galvanized steel or vinyl-coated (for weather/rust resistance)
- •Top rail (1.5" OD typical) runs full length to support fabric and add rigidity
- •Post spacing typically 8-10 feet for residential, 6-8 feet for high-traffic or animal containment
- •Fabric priced per linear foot includes the full height (4, 6, or 8 ft)
- •Does not include concrete footings, gates, or tension bands
Example Calculation
A 100-foot chain link fence with 10-foot post spacing and 6-foot height needs 11 line posts and 2 terminal posts. The 600 sq ft of fabric (100 × 6) costs $1,000 at $10/linear foot. Top rail and posts bring the total to approximately $2,325.
Inputs
Results
Chain Link Fabric Options
| material | gauge | height | durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | 6 or 9 | 4-8 ft | 15-20 years |
| Vinyl-Coated Steel | 6 or 9 | 4-8 ft | 20-30 years |
| Aluminum | 6 or 9 | 4-8 ft | 20-25 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
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