For those who would like to avoid a complicated installation process and have a modern-looking fence all while still achieving the same security benefits as a traditional chain link fence, then a fence without a top rail is for you. This easy-to-install and sleek fence is a great alternative to a regular chain link fence. The best part is that you will not have to sacrifice on how sturdy or secure your new fence is.
Is A Top Rail Needed On A Chain Link Fence?
The answer to this question is both yes and no, depending on the height of your chain link fence. For smaller fences, 4 feet or less, a top rail is not required. However, for larger fences greater than 4 feet, a top rail is needed to provide the proper rigidity.
A top rail should also be added to all-size chain link fences if installed in areas that receive high winds or a lot of snow. In these installations, the top rail will provide added structure to the fence to prevent it from folding under the pressure of the elements.
Not adding a top rail to your chain link fence can shave hours off your installation, making it the ideal DIY project. Being able to do it yourself and not having to purchase extra materials is a cost-effective way to add a fence to your home or business. Even without a top rail, your chain link fence is still a sturdy and secure barrier that is capable of keeping both wildlife and intruders from entering your property.
How To Install A Fence Without A Top Rail
Like any project, it is important to ensure you have all the required materials and tools on hand for a seamless installation process. Once you have all your items, it is time to start setting up your top rail-free chain link fence.
Items You Will Need:
- All chain link fence materials
- Tap measure
- Bags of cement
- Level
- Shovel or earth drill
First, you will need to mark where you would like the fence to go. During this marking process, we recommend placing small poles in place of where each fence post will go and then attaching a string to fully visualize the fence’s size. Once the area has been marked, you can begin digging the post holes. How deep you should dig for the fence posts depends on the height of your chain link fence. If you are looking to install a 4-foot-high fence, then you will need to dig a 2 feet hole. If installing a smaller or larger fence than that, you will have to look up the proper depth. After the holes have been dug, your fence posts can be installed. Cement will be needed to securely set your chain link fence posts in place. Be sure your posts and straight when pouring the cement by using a level. If your posts are not level when the cement has been set, then your fence will not install correctly. Also, do not completely fill the hole with concrete; leave a few inches at the top. Let the cement completely set for at least 24 hours before continuing to prevent the posts from shifting out of place. After the cement has fully dried, your tension bar can be added to your end posts. You are then able to install your chain link mesh to the posts, and your fence is complete.
