Dimensions of Chain-Link Fence Tubing

Chain-Link Fence Basics

• Terminal posts, line posts and railings are the three basic types of tubing in chain-link fence systems. Terminal posts are the strongest of three; they support the fence at its ends and corners or around gate openings. Like terminal posts, line posts are upright members; they support the chain link at regular intervals between the terminal posts. Rails are the smallest members; they run horizontally between the tops of line posts and terminal posts.

Terminal Post Dimensions

• Terminal posts are the thickest and largest type of chain-link fence tubing. As with most metal products, the thickness of terminal posts is expressed in gauge. Manufacturers express gauge in whole numbers; the lower the number, the thicker the material. Terminal posts are usually 16 gauge. Their outside diameter ranges from 1-7/8 to 2-3/8 inch. Although custom lengths are available for special projects, most home improvement stores stock 3- to 6-foot terminal posts. Builders use the narrower posts for short fences, usually under 5 feet, and the wider posts for tall fences, such as 5 feet or more.

Line Post Dimensions

• Like terminal posts, line posts are usually 16 gauge and their diameters vary according to the fence's height. The outside diameter of line posts commonly ranges from 1-5/8 to 1-7/8 inch. Narrower posts usually apply to fences below 5-feet tall, and the wider posts to fences over 5 feet tall. Line posts are available in the same lengths as terminal posts.

Rail Tubing Dimensions

• Top rails are the smallest and lightest of three types of chain-link fence tubing. The gauge of top rail tubing ranges from 16 to 17. The outside diameter of rail tubing ranges from 1-3/8 to 1-5/8 inch. The 1 5/8-inch-diameter tubing is generally reserved for tall fences; the top rail supports more chain link and greater weight as the fence increases in height.