Complete Installation Guide with Spacing Chart
Planning to install a chain link fence? You probably already bought your mesh and posts—but do you know how far apart the post should be? It’s a crucial detail that affects your fence’s strength, stability, and cost.
This guide covers everything you need to know:
✅ Standard post spacing
✅ Spacing chart by fence height
✅ Pro installation tips
✅ Mistakes to avoid
✅ FAQs for beginners
Why Fence Post Spacing Is So Important
Chain link fencing isn’t just about stretching mesh between metal posts. Your post layout affects:
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Structural stability
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Tension distribution
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Wind resistance
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Long-term durability
👉 Too far apart? Your fence may sag or collapse.
👉 Too close? You’re overspending on unnecessary posts.
Standard Spacing for Chain Link Fence Posts
In most residential and commercial cases, space line posts 8–10 feet apart.
Use this table for reference:
| Fence Height | Ideal Post Spacing |
|---|---|
| 3–4 feet | 6–10 feet |
| 5–6 feet | 7–10 feet |
| 8–10 feet | 6–8 feet |
| 12+ feet | 5–7 feet |
Tip: The taller or heavier your fence, the shorter the spacing should be.
Fence Post Types: Who Follows the Spacing Rule?
There are 3 types of posts in a chain link system:
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Corner Posts – Installed at every turn
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End Posts – Placed at fence ends or gate locations
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Line Posts – Positioned between corner/end posts
➡️ Only line posts follow the 8–10 ft spacing rule.
How to Calculate Post Spacing
Let’s break it down:
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Measure your total fence run (e.g., 100 ft)
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Choose your desired spacing (e.g., 8 ft)
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Divide and adjust: 100 ÷ 8 = 12.5 → Use 13 posts, spaced ~7.7 ft apart
Always adjust slightly to even out spacing—don’t cut panels or leave odd gaps.
Factors That Affect Your Ideal Spacing
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Wind Zones: High wind = shorter spacing
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Soil Type: Soft ground needs tighter post layout
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Fence Use: Security fences need stronger spacing
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Fence Material: Heavier mesh = more support needed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🔸 Spacing all posts evenly but forgetting corners/gates
🔸 Over-spacing tall fences → sag risk
🔸 Not using tension bars/wire properly
🔸 Estimating instead of measuring
Planning to take down an old fence first?
👉 Read: How to Remove a Chain Link Fence Without Damaging Your Yard
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can chain link fence posts be spaced 12 feet apart?
A: It’s not recommended. Spacing beyond 10 ft weakens the mesh unless you use thicker posts, heavier mesh, or extra tension wire.
Q: How do I adjust spacing for uneven ground?
A: Use a string line to stay level and adjust spacing slightly where dips or slopes occur. Always dig post holes to the proper depth regardless of terrain.
Q: Is closer spacing better for security fences?
A: Yes. For high-security zones, reduce spacing to 6–7 ft to prevent sagging and reinforce strength.
Ready to Install a Fence That Lasts?
Choosing the right post spacing is just the first step.
Need quality chain link fence materials?
✅ We offer galvanized posts, mesh rolls, fittings & more.
