Chain Link & Ornamental Gate Installations

The procedures for properly installing a chain link gate is very similar to installing an ornamental steel gate.

Both of these gates should come with pre assembled panels or mesh. If you are searching for a gate with more of a custom design, there are customizable options to swap pieces with another design or create your own. Or employ the help of a contractor for a fully customized ornamental gate design if your idea is especially out-of-the-box.

Follow our step by step guide for a quick gate installation, and a smooth ending to your construction project.

Plier Set

Ratchet and Socket Set

Screwdriver

Gloves

Start by slipping tension bands over the ends of the frame pieces. A good rule to follow is to use one less tension band than the fence is tall, in feet. For instance, a four foot piece would use 3 tension bands. Frame pieces should have male and female ends or right angle turns that attach easily in order to to connect the frame.

On the starting end of the mesh, slide a tension bar all the way through the entire length of the mesh, alternating between the chain link diamonds. This will keep the mesh stiff, making it easier to control as it is attached to the frame.

Fixate the tension bar on one side of the rails, using the prepositioned tension bands. With another tension bar, hold the mesh taught while inserting it into the mesh in a threading manner. Remove any excess mesh from the outside of the second tension bar.

Hold the mesh tightly by the second tension bar and slide it into the tension bands. This is an important time to pinpoint if your mesh is tight enough.

Use tension bars to pull the mesh tight over the frame and begin attaching one side of the mesh to the frame with the tension bands. Now examine where the second tension rod lines up with the frame, if it is not tight enough or not long enough it can still be adjusted. Once you’re sure you have the exact right length, unravel the closest part of the mesh to free your gate from the roll.

Slide the hinge pins to their positioning lined up to markings on the metal posts. Screw them tightly in place

Important! Make sure the top pin is facing up and the bottom pin is facing down.

Attach the upper hinge strap to the top pin hinge, then the same for the bottom hinge strap.

Lastly, we will hang the now fully-assembled gate. Match the latch to the gate post (opposite side than the hinges) and tighten into place. Next, slip the latch pin into the gate at the side rail. Locate the catch on the latch and line it up exactly with the latch pin. Use a socket wrench to tighten it.

Safety Glasses and Gloves

Measuring tape

Drill

Carpenters Level

Mounting Fasteners

Screws and hardware

Decide which way you would like the gate to swing, It will not be interchangeable so this is an important step. Alighting the swing with the hinges on the posts nearest to it will support stability.

Apply the flat large side of the hinge in the top position on the post. Use screws to tighten it. Do the same for the bottom hinge, but pay close attention make sure they line up. If they are not exactly in place with one another, the gate will not swing and close properly.

Carefully align the hinges and pins on the gate. Use support blocks to keep the gate in place off the ground.

Your fence should come with directions on how your exact type of hinges connect. Be sure to securely attach and bolt each part of the gate to keep it secure.

Look over your fence and use this evaluation to see if you have successfully planned the swinging of your fence. If it can open and close efficiently and freely, it is all clear to move forward with the final steps of attaching the latch.

Find the height most convenient to have your gate latch located. On the gate, drill holes into this position for your latch arm to be applied. Secure the gate latch arm with bolts or screws. Always think of child safety if your gate will provide access to a pool, the latch should be tall enough to follow city safety fencing regulations.

The latch needs to align with the arm, so follow this layout when drilling pilot holes. Attach the latch into these newly-drilled holes and attach them with bolts (screws will also work.)