Chain-Link Fence Parts Explained: A Complete Guide to Fence Components

If you’ve ever looked at a chain-link fence materials list and thought, “What in the world is a brace band?” — you’re not alone.

Whether you're a homeowner tackling a DIY project or a contractor ordering materials, understanding the different chain-link fence components makes planning and purchasing much easier.

At Eagle Custom Gate & Fence, we manufacture and supply chain-link fence materials, and we help customers every day figure out exactly what they need.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common chain-link fence parts and what they do.

The Core Fence

1. Fabric (Chain-Link Mesh)

This is the actual woven mesh that forms the body of the fence. It comes in galvanized or black-coated options and is available in different heights and gauges. It is sold in 50’ rolls.

The fabric provides:

• Security

• Visibility

• Durability

• Low maintenance performance

2. Line Posts

Line posts are the vertical posts placed between terminal posts. They support the fence fabric along the run of the fence. Typically, you will put a line post about every 10 feet.

These posts:

• Hold the structure steady

• Attach to top rail and fabric with fittings

• Are evenly spaced along straight sections

3. Terminal Posts

Terminal posts are used at:

• Corners

• Ends

• Gates

They are stronger and bigger than line posts because they anchor the fence and handle tension from the stretched fabric.

4. Top Rail

The top rail runs horizontally across the top of the fence, connecting post to post. Top Rail is sold in 21’ or 10’6” pieces.

It:

• Adds strength

• Keeps the fence aligned

• Prevents sagging over time

The Tension & Support System

Chain-link fencing relies on tension to stay tight and secure. These components make that possible.

5. Tension Bands

Tension bands attach the tension bar to the terminal post.
They wrap around the post and secure the fabric in place.

6. Brace Bands

Brace bands are used to attach:

• Top rail

• Tension wire

• Other horizontal supports

They are commonly installed on terminal posts.

7. Tension Bar

The tension bar slides vertically through the end of the fence fabric. It is held by tension bands.
It distributes pressure evenly and allows the fabric to be pulled tight.

8. Rail End Cup

The rail end cup connects the top rail to a terminal post by using a brace band.
It helps keep the horizontal rail secure and aligned.

Caps & Finishing Pieces

Chain-link fencing relies on tension to stay tight and secure. These components make that possible.

9. Dome Cap

A dome cap fits on top of terminal posts.
It provides a clean finished look and protects the post interior.

10. Loop Cap

A loop cap sits on top of line posts and includes a loop that allows the top rail to pass through.

Hardware & Accessories

11. Ties

Ties secure the fabric to:

• Line posts

• Top rail

They are sold in bags of 100.

12. Nuts & Bolts

Used throughout the system to fasten:

• Bands

• Rail ends

• Hardware

• Gate fittings

They are sold in boxes of 100.

Gates & Gate Components

No chain-link fence is complete without access points.

13. Walk Gates

Single gates designed for pedestrian access.

Standard sizes are 4’, 5’ & 6’.

14. Double Drive Gates

To gate panels meeting in the middle designed with a wider openings for vehicles, equipment, or trailers.

Standard sizes are 8’, 10’ & 12’.

15. Walk Gate Kits

Pre-packaged hardware kits for installing walk gates, including:

• Hinges

• Latches

• Hardware

16. Drive Gate Kits

Pre-packaged hardware kits for installing double drive gates, including:

• Hinges

• Latches

• Female hinges for L-30 Drop Rod

• Hardware

17. L-30 Drop Rod

Used to support and stabilize double drive gates at the latch.

Why Understanding Fence Parts Matters

Knowing your chain-link fence components helps you:

• Order the correct materials

• Avoid unnecessary delays

• Plan accurate quantities

• Build stronger, longer-lasting fences

For contractors, this means smoother jobs and better margins.
For homeowners, it means fewer surprises mid-project.

Need Help Ordering Chain-Link Materials?

At Eagle Custom Gate & Fence, we manufacture and supply high-quality chain-link fence materials for contractors and homeowners across Alabama.

Whether you need:

• Fabric

• Posts

• Hardware

• Gate kits

• Complete material packages

We’re here to help you get exactly what you need.

Stop by one of our three locations or give us a call — and we’ll walk you through it.