Chain link fence installation professionals near you

In most cases, it's best to hire a pro to install a chain link fence. When deciding between DIY vs. hiring a professional, consider:

• Tools and materials: You'll need a lot of different tools, including digging implements, concrete tools to set posts and more. If you're using rolled chain link fencing as opposed to panels, you'll also need equipment to correctly stretch the fence while hanging.

• Location-specific expertise: When you hire someone, they'll be equipped to deal with terrain challenges and other locale-specific needs like permits and building regulations.

• Warranties: Fence installers can often offer you a warranty against defects or poor workmanship.

• More options: Fence installers have greater access to parts and materials. Whereas your local home improvement store may have a couple of options available for chain link fencing, a fence installer should be able to give you multiple options for different heights, designs, finishes and more.

When looking for a professional to install a chain link fence, do the following:

• Verify their license and insurance: Confirm your pro has the correct contractor license (general or specialty, based on state rules) to install chain link fences — as well as liability coverage. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research.

• Get multiple estimates: Compare at least three estimates detailing the material type and grade, precise measurements, labor costs (including site prep and cleanup) and permitting fees.    

• Read their reviews: Find the positive and negative reviews for each installer, looking for signs of quality work like level installation, tight wire and sturdy posts. Watch for complaints about loose fencing, misaligned gates or rusting within the first year.

• Look at their portfolios: Check before-and-after photos of each installer’s work to see if their fences look straight, sturdy and well constructed, with properly aligned gates and corners.  

• Find out about warranties: Confirm that each installer offers at least a one-year warranty on installation — and ask if the materials come with the typical 12- to 15-year manufacturer’s guarantee.   

• Ask important questions: Ask each pro about their experience installing chain link fences like yours and how they handle surprises like weather delays, supply shortages or buried obstacles. Also, find out who your main contact will be and how you’ll stay in touch during the project.

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.

The national average cost to install a chain link fence is around $1,840 to $5,355,* according to Thumbtack data. The project’s cost depends on several factors, such as:

• Fence size: The length and height of your fence are usually the biggest cost contributors. 

• Material type: The diamond mesh size, wire thickness and coating you choose will likely affect the total cost.   

• Terrain: Installing chain link fences on sloped, uneven or rocky ground typically costs more due to extra labor and the need for special equipment.   

• Labor rate: Installation costs vary by region and contractor experience, with rates typically higher in urban areas and for more experienced fence installers.

• Permits: Local permit fees increase the total cost of fence installation projects, and some areas may also require property surveys.  

You can potentially lower the cost by:

• Using galvanized steel: Opting for basic galvanized steel instead of coated versions usually helps lower costs, especially if you select wider mesh and a higher-gauge wire.    

• Opting for fewer gates: Gates add to the material and labor costs, so limit them to only what you need to access your property.

• Prepping the site yourself: Save on labor costs by clearing vegetation, removing old fencing and leveling the ground before your fence installer arrives.

• Scheduling strategically: Chain link fencing companies may offer discounts when business is slow, typically in late fall, winter or around major holidays.  

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

In most cases, a professional will take the following steps when installing a chain link fence:

• Planning and marking the layout: The first step is to measure the area and mark where the posts will go. This includes ensuring proper spacing between posts and checking for underground utilities to avoid any damage.

• Setting the fence posts: The posts are set into the ground. End, corner and gate posts are often set in concrete, with holes dug at least two feet deep for added stability. 

• Installing the top rail and tension bands: The top rail is connected to the posts, and tension bands are placed on the end posts to hold the chain link fabric securely.

• Attaching and stretching the chain-link fabric: The chain link fabric is unrolled and attached to the posts. It's stretched tightly using a fence puller to ensure there's no sagging before it gets secured with ties.

• Securing the bottom and finishing up: The chain link is fastened to the posts and top rail, and any desired privacy features, like slats, are added. The gate is installed, and the fence is checked for security and stability.

Typically, it takes 1 to 3 days for a professional to finish installing a chain link fence. Here are a few factors that may impact how long it takes:

• Size of the area: Larger properties or longer fence lines require more time to measure, prepare and install than smaller areas.

• Ground conditions: If the ground is rocky, uneven or difficult to dig through, it may require additional effort to set the posts securely.

• Weather conditions: Bad weather, such as rain or extreme heat, can delay the installation process, especially if the ground is too wet for digging or if working conditions are unsafe.

• Fence design and features: If you add extra features like gates or privacy slats, it may add steps.

• Cement and drying time: If cement is used to secure the posts, the drying time for the concrete can add to the project duration. Concrete typically takes 24 to 48 hours to cure before work can continue, especially on end or corner posts.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

Some of the biggest benefits of having a chain link fence include:

• Affordability: Chain link fences are an affordable option to create a barrier or boundary around some or all of your property.

• Variety: There are many different types of chain link fences. You can choose different heights, finishes (like steel, black or brown) or styles, like chain link panels vs. rolled chain link fencing.

• Reduced maintenance: Chain link fences are a low-maintenance option. You won't have to worry about repainting or refinishing them every few years.

• Low visibility: Chain link fences are easier to blend into the landscape and less likely to obscure your view than wood fences, board-on-board fences and other fence types.

• Easy repairs: To repair chain link fencing, you'll need to call a pro — but those repairs are typically fast and affordable.