How to: Add a Chain Link Swing Gate to an Existing Fence
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Adding a new gate to an existing chain link fence is a common project for homeowners, businesses, and property managers looking to improve access or convenience around a property. The installation process will vary depending on the location of the new gate and the type of posts already in place.
In most cases, adding a gate will fall into one of three common installation scenarios listed below.
- Three Possible Scenarios:
- The New Gate Location Is Between Two Existing Terminal Posts*
- The New Gate Location Is Next to An Existing Terminal Post*
- The New Gate Location Is In the Middle of an Existing Fence Line with No Terminal Posts*
*Note: Terminal posts include end posts, corner posts, and gate posts. These posts are larger and stronger than standard line posts because they support fence tension and gate hardware. One simple way to identify a terminal post is by looking at the top rail. Top rails terminate into terminal posts using rail ends, while line posts use loop caps that allow the rail to pass through continuously. A gate installation requires two terminal posts — one for the hinges and one for the latch.
The New Gate Location Is Between Two Existing Terminal Posts
This is generally the easiest gate installation scenario because the required terminal posts are already in place. In many cases, however, the spacing between the existing posts will require a custom-sized gate.
Begin by removing the tie wires attached to the top rail and nearby line posts between the two terminal posts. If a bottom tension wire is present, remove the hog rings connected to that section as well.
Next, remove the nuts and bolts from the tension bands securing the chain link fabric to each terminal post. Once one side is disconnected, the chain link will begin to lose tension.
Safety Tip: Chain link fencing can be stretched very tightly. Wear gloves and eye protection during removal, as bolts or fencing material may spring loose unexpectedly.
After disconnecting the chain link fabric, remove it from the opening area. If the fabric remains in good condition, it may be reused for the new gate.
Remove the top rail by disconnecting the brace band and rail end cup bolts at both ends. This rail may also be reused during gate installation.
Once all unnecessary bands and hardware are removed, you will have an open space ready for the new gate installation. Measure the clear opening between the inside faces of the terminal posts. This measurement should include the spacing required for hinges and latch hardware when ordering or building the gate.
The New Gate Location Is Next to An Existing Terminal Post
This installation is also fairly straightforward because only one new terminal post must be added. Since the new post can be positioned as needed, a standard-sized gate can often be used.
Start by disconnecting the chain link fabric from the existing terminal post where the gate will be installed. Remove the bolts and tension bands securing the fabric to the post.
Safety Tip: Stretched chain link fabric may spring when released. Use caution and wear proper eye protection while removing hardware.
Once disconnected, carefully peel the chain link fabric back far enough to clear the location of the new gate post. Loosen tie wires attached to the top rail if additional movement is needed.
Measure from the inside face of the existing terminal post to determine the approximate location of the new gate post. Keep in mind that the gate opening measurement must include space for hinges and latch hardware.
Cut the top rail using a pipe cutter or hacksaw if necessary. Avoid cutting the rail too short until the new post has been installed and exact measurements can be confirmed.
Mark the location of the new gate post hole on the ground. Residential chain link gate post holes are commonly dug 30" to 36" deep and approximately 6" to 8" in diameter. Widening the bottom of the hole slightly can help improve stability.
Set the new terminal post in concrete while maintaining the correct gate opening width throughout the installation. Use a level or straight edge to ensure the new post aligns properly with the existing fence line.
Another helpful method is to temporarily install the hinges and gate onto the existing terminal post before setting the second post. This can help verify the exact placement needed for proper gate fitment.
After the concrete has fully cured, reinstall the top rail using the brace band and rail end cup. Trim the rail carefully for a proper fit inside the rail end cup.
Finally, restretch the chain link fabric to the new terminal post and install the gate hardware.
The New Gate Location Is In the Middle of an Existing Fence Line with No Terminal Posts
This installation is the most labor-intensive because two new terminal posts must be added and the fence fabric must be restretched on both sides of the opening.
Additional hardware may also be required, including tension bars, tension bands, brace bands, bolts, and rail end cups for both new posts.
Start by marking the center locations for both new gate posts. The spacing between the posts should match the gate opening width plus the diameter of one gate post.
Cut the chain link fabric at the planned gate location using bolt cutters or appropriate cutting tools.
Safety Tip: Chain link wire under tension can snap or spring loose during cutting. Always wear eye protection and keep bystanders clear of the work area.
Pull the chain link fabric back from the opening and loosen tie wires connected to the top rail as needed. Cut the top rail near the center of the proposed gate opening and move it out of the way.
Dig both terminal post holes approximately 30" to 36" deep and 6" to 8" in diameter. Slightly widening the bottom of each hole can help improve concrete anchoring strength.
Set the first gate post in concrete while aligning it carefully with the existing fence line. Once positioned, use the gate itself or precise measurements to determine the exact placement of the second gate post.
After both posts are securely set and the concrete has cured, reconnect and restretch the chain link fabric to the new terminal posts. Avoid overtightening the fabric during installation. Once complete, reinstall the top rail and remaining hardware.
