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Many customers are interested in how they can convert their chain link fence to wood. Unfortunately the chain link fence conversion to wood fence isn't an easy transition. In theory, it can be done but in practice there are many factors that are working against you.
Issue # 1
Most chain link fences have posts that are spaced right around 10' apart. Wood fence panels, and common components are only 8' wide +/-. Spacing posts more than 8 feet apart can potentially be problematic and cause strength problems in the future.
Solution # 1
If you are going to 'stick-build' your fence, you may be able to source 10' or 12' lumber for your stringers. While more expensive, it may be cost effective compared to installing new posts. When it comes time install the wood fence with metal posts, we recommend using any of our high quality wood fence brackets for steel posts.
Issue # 2
When you turn chain link fence into privacy fence the posts need to be strong enough to support the increased weight and wind load. Most residential chain link fences are installed with a 16 gauge or lesser grade framework. This light duty tubing is definitely not strong enough to support a solid privacy wood fence.
Solution # 2
If you have a thin wall tubing for your posts then we recommend you stop here and consider purchasing new posts. We recommend a minimum of HF20 for these applications, and in a perfect world we would use HF40. There is a possibility that you have heavier framework so please check the wall thickness to be sure.
To do this, pop of the post caps and loop caps, and measure the outside diameter. Next you will measure the inside diameter. Next you should subtract the smaller measurement (ID) from the larger measurement (OD) and divide by 2. This will give you the wall thickness. If you have suitable posts, please continue on. If you come up with anything thinner than 0.085" (2.16 mm) then we urge you to purchase new HF20 or HF40 fence posts which can be installed with concrete or some of our high quality OZCO Post Anchors, which can be driven with a sledge or jack hammer.
Issue # 3
Fence post footers for chain link jobs are typically smaller in diameter and depth than wood fences. The extra weight and wind load of a wood fence must be accounted for.
Solution # 3
If you know that the footers are sufficient, then you could in theory re-use the posts. If you are unsure, at a minimum please make sure that the posts are sturdy, and plumb. If they are you can probably get away with re-using the posts.
If your posts are not sufficient, then you will need to set new posts, either with concrete or the alternative post anchor installation method discussed in Solution # 2.
Issue # 4
If you are installing privacy fence, chances are you are looking to convert a 4 foot chain link fence to a 5 or 6 foot wood fence. If this is the case, then the obvious problem is that your existing posts are too short for the taller fence.
Solution # 4
If you need to extend the height of your posts, then we are happy to offer our chain link fence post extensions, available in common diameters, and in 1' or 2' lengths. Providing your footers are sufficient, these are a great way to extend the height of your chain link fence posts.