As a general rule, Fencing Direct recommends at least a 24-inch footing depth for a 4-foot fence, plus an extra 3 inches for every foot of height (for example, 27 inches for a 5-foot post).
Chain link fencing can be erected so that the bottom of the fence is just clear of ground level. Alternatively, the bottom of the fence can be buried at least 150 cm (6 inches) into the ground to prevent animals from getting under it.
Anchoring each fence post in concrete is the best way to ensure your fence will stand straight and tall for many years. It can be tempting to skip the time and expense of setting the posts in cement, but in the long run, the savings usually aren't worth it for a number of reasons.
Fence posts should be dug into the ground at a depth that is roughly 1/3 or 1/2 of the height of the post above ground. For example, a six-foot tall fence would require a hole at a depth of around two to three feet. This ensures that the post is sturdy and will hold solid in the ground.
SPACING FENCE POSTS
As chain link fence posts are smaller and sturdier than many other types, the holes should be smaller and can be farther apart. Follow the fence manufacturer's instructions for spacing, which typically ranges from 4-10' apart—spacing should not exceed 10' on-center. (fig.
Chain Link Fence Posts support the top rail and chain-link fabric. Use one of these within every 10-foot run of fence.
It's a good question and one that we get asked a lot. For most residential fences 8′ between posts is the maximum. Commercial fences (industrial chain link, for example) typically can handle up to 10′ spacing because of their stronger frames.
In some cases, metal fence posts can be installed without concrete, however, it is recommended you use concrete in areas with high winds. Concrete is a great way to secure your posts, and it is relatively inexpensive.
If you are looking for information on how to install chain link fence around your yard, there are a few things you will need to do to ensure your fence lasts for years to come. One way to ensure your fence both lasts and looks good is to make sure the fence is level and straight.
So, a six-foot-high finished post ideally needs to be buried three feet into the ground. You may be able to get away with two feet depending on the weight of your fence, soil conditions and local climate.
Driving post instead of pouring them in concrete allows the soil to absorb the water around the post keeping it dry. Concrete draws water to it and over time as a gap or crack begins between the post and concrete it will trap water there increasing the speed at which it will rust.
Whether you're building a fence, setting a mailbox or even a basketball goal, the best way to ensure your posts will stay sturdy and true for years is to set them in concrete.
Chain link fence posts are typically spaced a maximum of ten feet apart. For aesthetic reasons, space posts evenly, but do NOT exceed ten feet between posts. If you plan on installing privacy slats or another type of material that will increase wind load, consider using 8' or 6' post spacing.
Another way to secure the bottom of a chain link fence is to add stakes. There are many styles of chain link stakes, but they all operate the same. The stakes wrap around part of the chain link fabric and get pushed directly into the ground.
Tension bars, which are flat steel pieces that run parallel to the terminal posts, hold the fence mesh in place. They're used to stretch the fence mesh into a firm and stable position that can't be altered. Tension bands are used to tighten the tension bars in place and connect them to the terminal posts.
In most applications, a wooden fence should be mounted at least two inches off the ground. Your posts and rot boards (if you want to mount them) should be the only fence components that come into contact with the ground. Wood pickets are never meant to touch it.
The most common issues concerning chainwire fencing is the rust that can occur on its posts and at times on the wire itself. High quality products provide a more durable material that will protect itself from rust better.
Install tension wire on the bottom of the fence line. This wire reinforces the bottom of a chain link fence and helps prevent the bottom from 'pulling' up if an animal tries to push the fabric out and away from the fence line.
Leaving a space between the bottom of your fence and the ground allows for landscaping changes and/or growth, prevents moisture absorption from occurring, and it also makes it easier to do yard maintenance and clean up along the base of the fence.
It works so well, in fact, that in mild climates, builders sometimes elect to set fence posts with gravel alone. While that approach makes sense in certain situations, for a lasting installation, experts are more likely to specify a combination of gravel (for drainage) and concrete (for much-needed stability).
You will need a post- or a gas-powered pounder to install your no-dig chain link fence. These tools will do the heavy lifting to anchor your fence post into the ground without digging. If choosing to use a post-pounder for your installation, a sledgehammer will also be needed.
If you decide to install your chain link fence without concrete, use a post-hole digger to make a hole deep enough to bury the posts at least two feet, or about 1/3rd of the height. Never pound the posts into the ground, especially if you have hard clay or rocky soil, because you'll bend the tops.
Wooden Fence Post Spacing
The ideal spacing for wooden fence posts is 5 to 8 feet apart. If you're installing premade fence panels, the distance between fence posts should match the panel width. Standard intervals include 6 and 8 feet.
So, how far apart should fence posts be? The standard spacing for fence posts is 8 to 25 feet apart, depending on the type of fence. A standard wood fence would require posts 8 feet apart, while a high-tensile wire could span 25 feet.
The Quick Answer. Most fence posts can be spaced 8 to 12 feet apart. While this is a general criteria, it doesn't cover all scenarios.