Chain link install questions

I have a few sections of chain link fencing the need repair/replacement due to a fallen tree, as well as a new section with a single gate. Total linear footage is about 50 ft. I've only gotten one estimate thus far, and it seemed awfully high ($1,900). My limited searches show an average of $8 to $10 per linear foot of chain link installed. If I figure $200 for the gate, that's about $34/linear foot installed. WAY more than what I expected or want to pay. The majority of the 20,000+ homes in this community have chain link fences, so I would expect prices to be pretty cheap. Although this is northern VA, and everything is more expensive here. I'll be getting another estimate tomorrow, but if it is going to be anywhere near this expensive, I think I may attempt it myself. Is this a DIY job? What special tools are required?

There was a bad windstorm the other week, and I'm sure countless other trees fell on fences. I can't help but think they're taking advantage of this because they assume people are using insurance. I am not. This is out of pocket.

 

IMO installing chainlink is a diy job. For the most part all the tools you need are a post hole digger and means to stretch the wire. I've used a com-a-long and a home made attachment to secure to the fence. Basically it's two 2x4s bolted thru the fence wire with a hook to attach to the com-a-long. Depending on the soil I've either concreted every post or every other post. The fence, posts and rails are all available at your local big box store.

 

Would threading a piece of metal rod through the chain link and pulling on that with a come-along work as well? If so, seems like an easier solution.

BTW, I just checked my Home Depot and they don't have very much of anything for chain link fencing. Just some carriage bolts, post tops, and fence ties. Lowes has a little more, but not enough to do everything. I'd have to order the gate. Still a significant cost savings though (obviously).

 

I would think so. The last chainlink fence I installed - everything came from Lowes. The gates were in stock also.[both 3' and double 6' .... or was it 5'?]

 

If you haven't already, check the Lowes/Home Depot website or app. It should give you an aisle location in your store if it's in stock. Sometimes bulky stuff like fencing rolls is stored out in the garden center, or other places you might not think of. (I know I wander aimlessly without the app). If no luck there, do you have a store like Tractor Supply, or a farm supply/co-op near you? I can't remember specifically seeing chain link at my local ones, but they usually have an assortment of fencing supplies, and cater to the DIY types.

 

At our local Lowes, the fence products are in the outdoor section - not far from where the plants are.

 

Based on their website, it looks like Lowe's has more fencing supplies. I'll check it out this weekend.