How do you fix the top rail on a chain link fence?

Fixing the top rail on a chain link fence is a common DIY project for homeowners. The top rail provides critical structural support for the fence and needs to be secure and level. If your top rail is sagging, loose, or uneven, it can compromise the stability and appearance of the entire fence. Replacing or repairing the top rail involves basic tools and materials that are easy to source. With some time and effort, you can restore the top rail on your chain link fence. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to repairing and replacing the top rail on a chain link fence.

Assessing the Damage

Before jumping into repairs, take some time to thoroughly inspect the top rail and identify any problem areas. Look for things like:

• Sagging or drooping sections
• Areas where the rail has become detached from the fence posts
• Rust, rot, cracks or other deterioration
• Missing or damaged end, corner or gate caps

Take notes on the locations and extent of any damage. This will help determine what materials and hardware you need for repairs. It will also tell you whether certain sections need partial repairs or full replacement.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Once you have assessed the damage, gather the necessary materials and tools. Typical items needed include:

• Replacement top rail sections. These are commonly available in 6 or 8 foot lengths.
• End, corner and gate caps
• Self-tapping screws
• Hog ring clips
• Wire tension bands
• Hacksaw or pipe cutters to cut top rail sections
• Drill
• Hammer
• Protective eyewear and work gloves

Match the gauge and diameter of any new top rail sections to your existing fence. Having extras of any damaged or missing hardware on hand can speed up repairs.

Removing the Old Top Rail

If you need to fully replace long sections of damaged top rail, start by removing the old rail. To do this:

1. Cut the top rail on both sides of the section needing replacement using a hacksaw or pipe cutters. Make cuts as close to the post as possible.
2. Unscrew any fasteners connecting the rail to the posts.
3. Detach the ends of the top rail from the corner, end or gate posts.
4. Carefully lift out and discard the damaged section of top rail.

Temporary remove any undamaged sections still fastened to damaged posts to allow access for repairs. Set these aside for reinstallation later.

Replacing Broken Posts

Severely damaged or rotten fence posts will need to be replaced before installing new top rail sections. To do this:

1. Detach the top rail from the damaged post.
2. Remove any bottom tension wire connected to the post.
3. Dig out and remove the old post.
4. Dig a new post hole 12″-18″ deep.
5. Set the new post in concrete.
6. Reattach the tension wire and top rail.

Use a specialty fence post mix rather than plain concrete for better strength. Make sure new posts match the height of existing ones.

Reattaching Existing Top Rail

For sections where the top rail just needs reattachment to the posts, take the following steps:

1. Reposition any sagging sections of top rail to be level.
2. Reconnect the top rail to the posts using self-tapping screws, hog rings or wire ties.
3. Space connections approximately every 18″-24″.
4. Install wire tension bands 2-3 per post following package directions.
5. Replace any damaged or missing end, corner and gate caps.

Tension bands provide extra stability and support. Make sure all connections are tight and secure.

Installing New Top Rail Sections

For fully replacing long spans of top rail, follow these steps:

1. Position the new top rail section against the posts where needed.
2. Mark cutting length to fit snugly between posts.
3. Cut the rail section to fit using hacksaw or pipe cutters.
4. Attach end caps to open ends.
5. Fasten the rail securely to the posts with self-tapping screws, hog rings or wire ties every 18″-24″.
6. Install 2-3 wire tension bands per post.

Avoid any sharp edges from cuts that could pose a safety hazard. Wear gloves when handling cut rail pieces. Properly discarded any damaged sections.

Finishing Touches

Once all necessary top rail repairs or replacements are complete, finish up with these steps:

1. Check that all screws, ties, caps and bands are tightly secured.
2. Snip off any loose or sharp wire ends.
3. Remove any tools, leftovers debris and dirt from the fence area.
4. Test operation of all gates where the top rail was repaired.
5. Paint any new, bare metal rail sections to match existing fence.

Take a walk along the full length of the fence and inspect your work. Make any final adjustments needed for the best appearance and performance.

Tips for Preventing Future Damage

With proper ongoing care, your repaired fence top rail should last for many years. Here are some tips to keep it in good shape:

• Routinely check for sagging or loose sections and re-secure as needed.
• Trim back any encroaching tree branches.
• Reapply protective paint every 1-2 years.
• Keep soil built up around the posts to prevent rotting.
• Promptly repair any damage from storms, falling debris, etc.

Investing some periodic maintenance will extend the life of your fence and minimize the need for major top rail repairs.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY top rail replacement is totally feasible for most homeowners, there are some cases where calling in a professional makes sense:

• You need to replace a large number of severely damaged posts and top rail sections.
• Heights exceed 6 feet and require special equipment to work safely.
• Complex designs or corner lots make accessing and repairing difficult.
• Severely deteriorated rails, posts or foundations need full replacement.
• You don’t have the right tools, skills or physical ability.

Professionals can also provide guidance on meeting codes and permit requirements in your area. For very large jobs, their expertise can ensure proper repairs and save you time and effort.

Costs of Repairing a Chain Link Fence Top Rail

For DIY repairs, costs will mainly consist of purchased materials. Expect to spend:

• $10 – $25 per 8′ section of top rail
• $2 – $7 per post
• $1 – $5 per pack of caps, bands, hardware

So for example, replacing 16 feet of rail and 2 posts would be around $60 – $150. Hiring a pro to repair or replace your top rail typically ranges from:

Repair Type	Cost
Re-securing loose sections	$3 – $5 per linear foot
Replacing individual posts	$40 – $80 per post
Full top rail replacement	$10 – $20 per linear foot

Major fence demolition and installation could run $15 – $30 per linear foot. Location, access, materials and labor will impact final costs.

Conclusion

With basic DIY skills and proper materials, repairing a sagging or damaged chain link fence top rail is a very manageable project for most homeowners. Following the steps above to assess damage, remove old rail, replace posts, reattach or install new rail, and finish up will get your fence top rail back in shape. Proper maintenance will then keep it functioning properly for years to come. In more complex situations or for very large repairs, hiring a professional fencing contractor may be advisable. But for most typical top rail fixes, doing it yourself will save money and allow you to get your fence looking great again.