RESOURCES - CHAIN LINK TENSION WIRE INSTALLATION

The proper installation of tension wire is crucial for chain link fencing, as it keeps the chain links tautly attached to the posts and rails at both the top and bottom of the fence. To assist with this process, we have prepared a comprehensive how-to guide on tension wire installation for fences.

Objective: By mastering this lesson, you will be able to complete chain link tension wire installation.

Equipment: 2ea. come-a-longs, pliers, bolt cutters, chop saw or hand saw, wire rake for the appropriate height wire, speed wrench with ½” socket, barb wire dog, T-bar, and hammer.

Key Question: How do I install top or bottom tension wire?

How do I install top or bottom tension wire?

Because tension wire is made of spring steel, it possesses significant resistance to bending and stretching. Therefore, when cutting the banding on the spool, it's important to securely hold the spool to prevent it from unraveling and becoming tangled beyond usability. Additionally, the end of the spool poses a safety hazard by spinning around, so wearing safety glasses and gloves is crucial.

Begin by locating the spool at the far end of the stretch and laying it on the ground to cut the banding.
Firmly grasp the end of the spool and slowly pull the wire along the inside of the fence line to the other terminal post, while another installer maintains constant pressure and control on the spool to prevent it from slipping out of their grasp.
Install an end band at the base of the terminal post with the ears of the band pointing toward the other terminal post.
Use pliers to bend a one-foot section of the tension wire around the nut and bolt located in the end band. Make tightly wound loops around itself at least four times, ensuring there are no loose loops left as they may cause the wire to unravel when tension is applied.
Leave at least one foot of wire to wrap around itself while making sure it is tight enough to grip. Cut away any tails.
Estimate the amount of wire needed to complete the stretch and cut the wire after pulling the spool past the terminal post at the other end of the stretch.
Place another end band at the base of the terminal post.
Pull the tension wire taut by hand along the fence line and place your wire dog approximately ten feet away from the terminal post.
Wrap the cable end of the come-a-long around the base of the terminal post above the end band.
Insert the fixed end of the come-a-long into the eye of the wire dog.
Apply constant pressure on the cable and crank the come-a-long until the wire is taut.
Avoid stretching the tension wire too tight, as it may have a natural crimp that should remain visible after installation. Do not try to stretch the crimp out of the wire.
Cut the tension wire and attach it to the end band located at the base of the terminal post.
Tie the tension wire to the line post at every interval using a fence tie.

When installing top tension wire, thread the wire through the loop caps. It is crucial to avoid over-stretching the wire, which can pull the terminal post out-of-plumb. This issue may not be apparent during installation and often occurs after the fence is completed. Therefore, assuming that the terminal post is still plumb does not mean that you have not over-stretched the wire. Only stretch the tension wire to the point where it does not sag and has sufficient tension on the crimps.