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.

Fencing contractors are the best choice when you want to have a fence installed on your property. While there are several types of professionals who can likely handle this service — including handymen, landscapers and general contractors — a fencing contractor has the experience to know what could cause potential problems in the long run. This might include wet spots, vegetation or other issues with the land. 

When choosing a professional to install a fence on your property, make sure they have credentials and experience.

Adding a gate to your fence can be a practical way to provide access to a yard, work area or outdoor living space while ensuring safety and privacy. Gate installation costs will vary based on the gate material you select, the size of your gate, whether you install a fence at the same time, and any special features you’d like to add. Standard opening size for a single-wide gate is 4 feet; a double-wide gate is 8 feet. A small gate may be for decoration; a double-wide gate can be mounted on a rolling caster system to allow access for cars or wide loads. Here are some examples of average fence gate installation costs:

• 4-foot, single-swing chain-link gate: $100 for materials and installation costs.
• 28-foot wheeled chain-link gate on a caster system: $800-$1,000 for materials and installation costs.
• 4-foot, single-swing wood gate: $75.
• 8-foot double-wide wood gate: $150.
• 4-foot white vinyl walk-through gate: $300–$400 for materials and installation costs.
• 8-foot, double-wide white vinyl gate: about $800 for materials and installation costs.
• White vinyl gate fence more than 8 feet wide: $1,200-$1,500 for materials and installation.
• Arched black powder-coated aluminum pool gates: $175-$200 per gate.

Help define your property line, protect your home and yard, and boost your curb appeal with a new wood fence. The national average for wood fence installation cost is $3,250. Wood fence installation costs will vary based on your geographic location, the type of wood you select, the height and style of wood fence you desire, and the condition of your property. Pressure-treated pine is a common and attractive choice that is usually resilient against rot and bugs. Cedar is another budget-friendly option that, although more expensive than pressure-treated pine, can be more affordable than redwood or teak. A wood fence requires maintenance to ensure its long-term health and beauty, so keep future staining and painting costs in mind when you’re calculating fence installation costs. Here are some examples of how height and material affect the approximate cost of wood fences:

• 6-foot-high, pressure-treated pine fence: $15-$17 per linear foot.
• 4-foot-high, pressure-treated pine fence: $13-$20 per linear foot.
• Cedar fence: $18-$25 per linear foot.
• 6-foot-high, double-sided (meaning both sides are uniform), pressure-treated pine fence with 6x6 posts: $25 per linear foot.
• 12-foot-high, pressure-treated pine fence with custom detailing: $75 per linear foot.
• 6-foot-high, pressure-treated pine fence with a custom lattice top: $30-$50 per linear foot.

The cheapest type of fence to install is (usually) a chain-link fence. Averaging between $7 and $12 per linear foot, this type of fencing is strong and secure and allows homeowners to maintain visibility while adding protection to their property. Chain-link fences are constructed from steel coated in aluminum, vinyl or zinc for weather resistance. 

You can get a more accurate cost estimate for your chain-link fence by contacting professionals who specialize in installing these fences. 

Read our cost guide on fence installation costs to see prices for other types of fences.