How to Put a Wood Fence on Chain Link Posts
Many people have old chain link fences in their yard that they would like to upgrade to a wood fence. Instead of removing all the components of the chain link, the posts can be used for the new fence upgrade. Reusing existing posts will prevent you from having to dig and purchase extra material. Installing a wood fence on chain link posts is a relatively simple DIY job that most people can do in less than a weekend. Here's how you can accomplish this.
Step 1: Check Existing Posts
Before you go through the time and energy of installing the new fencing, you will want to make sure all the posts are secure. Age and weather can weaken the ground surrounding the posts. Check each post individually to ensure it is secure. If it's not, some quick dry cement can be added to the base to secure it. You may need to pull up any loose concrete before you can add more.
Step 2: Determine Height
The height of your fence will determine the number of runners you need for the new wood fence. A fence that is less than 5 feet high should only require 2 runners. More than 5 feet will require at least 3 runners. Simple 2X4 sections of wood can be used for the runners. The runners will help support the weight of the wood once it's installed. You will want to think about how much weight is being added to the post with a higher fence as well. Measure in between each post to get the length you will need for the runners.
Step 3: Install the Fence
Once you have the height and the number of runners needed, you can start to install the fence. You will place the sections up to check for size, then add the runners. The runners can be installed using simple wood screws and a drill. Stainless steel screws will prevent rust from forming and changing the color of the wood. The runners will then be attached to the metal posts using brackets. These brackets can be found at any home improvement store. The brackets are designed to wrap all the way around the metal post and attach to the fence. Be sure to attach the brackets on each runner. If you have a taller fence and ended up with 3 runners, then you will use 3 brackets for each post.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
You can install a gate if you choose. The gate should have double brackets to allow for additional weight. Finish the project by weatherproofing, staining, or painting the fence as you desire.
