If your chain link fence has been hit by a car or otherwise damaged, it is possible to repair the bent fence posts and keep your fence looking good as new.
Repair a Bent Chain Link Fence (Step By Step)
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to repair a bent chain link fence:
Tools required: Tape measure, Post-hole digger, Pry bar, Ratchet strap.
- Inspect the damage to your fence and determine how severe it is. If the damage is minimal, you may be able to get away with simply straightening out the bent posts. However, if the damage is more severe, you may need to replace one or more fence posts.
- If you need to replace a fence post, start by removing the damaged post. Use a post-hole digger to remove the concrete footing around the post, then use a pry bar to remove the post from the ground.
- Install the new fence post by setting it in the hole and pouring concrete around it. Use a level to make sure the post is plumb before the concrete sets.
- Once the new post is in place, you can straighten out the bent posts using a come-along or a ratchet strap. Attach one end of the come-along or ratchet strap to the new post, then pull on the other end to straighten out the bent posts.
- Finally, replace any damaged fencing panels and make sure all of the hardware is securely fastened.
How To Repair Damaged Chain Link Fence Fabric?
Tools required: Wire cutters, Wire strippers, Pliers, Hammer, Measuring tape, New chain link fence fabric, Fence ties, Post hole digger (optional), T-post driver (optional), Fence posts (optional), Concrete (optional), Gravel (optional).
Step 1– Inspect the damage to the chain link fence fabric. If the damage is severe, it may be necessary to replace the entire section of the fence. If the damage is isolated to one or two areas, it may be possible to make repairs.
Step 2– Cut out the damaged section of the fence with wire cutters, being careful not to damage the surrounding fence fabric.
Step 3– Strip the ends of the cut wires with wire strippers.
Step 4– Twist the ends of the cut wires together with pliers, making sure that the wires are securely twisted together.
Step 5-Hammer the twisted wire ends flat against the fence post or other support structure.
Step 6– Measure the length and width of the hole left by the damaged section of the fence. Cut a piece of new chain link fence fabric to fit this area, using wire cutters.
Step 7– Attach the new piece of fence fabric to the existing fence with fence ties, making sure that the new piece is securely attached.
How To Straighten Bent Chain Link Fence Top Rail?
If your chain link fence has a bent top rail, you can usually straighten it out yourself with a little effort. Here’s how:
- First, identify where the bend is located. If it’s a small bend, you may be able to simply push or pull it back into place with your hands. If the bend is larger, you’ll need to use a tool to help straighten it.
- Once you’ve located the bend, place a block of wood on either side of the rail. This will help protect the rail from being damaged as you work to straighten it.
- If you’re using your hands to straighten the rail, grip it on either side of the bend and apply pressure until the rail pops back into place.
- If the bend is too large to fix with your hands, use a pipe wrench or similar tool to grip the rail on either side of the bend. Apply pressure and twist the wrench until the rail pops back into place.
- Once the rail is straightened, check all of the other rails to make sure they’re still in place and not bent as well. Make any necessary adjustments so that all of the rails are level and even.
Why Does Chain Link Fence Bent?
There are a few reasons why a chain link fence may become bent over time. Here are five of the most common reasons:
- Heavy snow or ice accumulation can cause the fence to bow.
- Wind can cause the fence to lean or bow.
- Soil erosion can cause the posts to become unstable and lean.
- Tree roots can grow under and push up on the fence.
- Vehicle traffic can damage and weaken the fence.
Conclusion
A chain link fence can become bent for a variety of reasons, including severe weather, high winds, or vandalism. If your fence is bent, you’ll need to straighten it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. The best way to do this is to use a come-along or ratchet strap to pull the fence back into place. You may also need to replace damaged sections of the fence.
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