Chain link is the most repairable fencing material — most fixes require basic tools and an hour of work. The AFA's Fence Installation School chain link discipline covers the full installation process, and reversing those steps is the basis for most repairs.
Here are the most common chain link fence problems and how to fix each one.
Patching a Hole in Chain Link Fabric
Small holes from impacts, animals, or age can be patched without replacing the entire fabric section.
For holes smaller than 12 inches:
- Cut a patch piece from spare chain link fabric, 3–4 inches larger than the hole on all sides
- Remove the damaged section by cutting the wire strands around the hole with pliers
- Position the patch over the hole
- Weave the edges of the patch into the existing fabric using hog rings or aluminum tie wire
- Secure every connection point — the patch should blend into the existing mesh
For holes larger than 12 inches: Consider replacing the full fabric section between two posts (see "Replacing Fabric" below). Large patches look rough and tend to bulge.
Cost: DIY patch: $5–$15 in materials. Professional patch: $50–$150.
Fixing a Leaning Post
Chain link posts lean for two reasons: the concrete footing has shifted, or the post has bent above the footing.
If the footing has shifted:
- Dig around the base of the post to expose the concrete
- Remove enough soil to access the footing
- Push the post plumb and brace it with 2×4s staked to the ground
- Pour new concrete around the existing footing to extend and reinforce it
- Wait 48–72 hours for the concrete to cure before removing braces (per AFA standards)
If the post has bent:
- Detach the fence fabric from the post (remove tie wires)
- Use a post puller or pipe wrench to straighten the post, or replace it entirely
- If replacing: dig out the old post and concrete, set a new post per AFA post depth standards
- Reattach the fabric
Cost: DIY: $20–$50 in concrete. Professional: $150–$400 per post.
Straightening a Bent Top Rail
Top rail takes the most impact damage — fallen branches, wind load, and accidental impacts from vehicles or equipment.
For a slight bend:
- Detach the rail from the adjacent loop caps
- Place the bend on a flat surface (driveway works)
- Step on one side and pull up on the other, or use a pipe bender
- Reattach
For a severe bend or kink:
Replace the damaged section. Top rail comes in standard lengths — cut a replacement piece and join it with a rail sleeve (a short coupling that slides over both ends).
Cost: DIY: $10–$30 per section. Professional: $75–$200.
Re-Tensioning Sagging Fabric
Over time, chain link fabric stretches and sags. Per the AFA's chain link discipline, proper tension is critical — too loose and the fence sags, too tight and it stresses terminal posts.
Re-tensioning process:
- Disconnect the fabric from one terminal post by removing the tension bar and bands
- Use a come-along or fence stretcher to pull the fabric tight
- Insert a new tension bar through the end of the stretched fabric
- Secure the tension bar to the terminal post with tension bands and bolts
- Trim any excess fabric with bolt cutters
When sagging means replacement: If the fabric has stretched significantly (you can push it inward several inches with your hand), the wire gauge may be wearing thin. At that point, re-tensioning is a temporary fix — the fabric will sag again. Full replacement of the fabric section is the permanent solution.
Cost: DIY re-tension: $10–$20 in hardware. Professional: $3–$6/ft.
Replacing a Fabric Section
When a section of fabric is too damaged to patch or re-tension, replace it between two posts:
- Remove all tie wires attaching the old fabric to the top rail and posts
- Disconnect the fabric from terminal posts (remove tension bars and bands)
- Remove the old fabric
- Unroll new fabric along the section
- Attach to one terminal post with tension bar and bands
- Stretch to the opposite terminal post per AFA stretching procedures — see our chain link guide for proper technique
- Secure with tension bar and bands
- Tie the new fabric to the top rail and line posts with aluminum ties
Match your gauge. If the existing fence is 9-gauge, use 9-gauge replacement fabric. Mixing gauges creates a visual mismatch and structural inconsistency. Our gauge guide covers specifications.
Cost: DIY: $3–$6/ft in materials. Professional: $8–$15/ft installed.
Replacing Gate Hardware
Chain link gates have more moving parts than any other fence component, making them the most repair-prone element.
Common gate repairs:
- Sagging gate: Tighten hinges or replace with heavier-duty hinges. Add a gate wheel for support.
- Latch not engaging: Adjust the latch position or replace worn hardware. $15–$40 for new latch.
- Self-closer not working: Replace the self-closing hinge spring mechanism. Critical for pool gates.
- Gate frame racking: The gate frame has twisted. Remove, straighten on a flat surface, and rehang. If the frame is kinked, replace it.
Cost: Gate hardware replacement: $25–$75 DIY, $100–$250 professional.
When to Repair vs. Replace the Whole Fence
Repair when:
- Damage is limited to 1–2 sections
- Posts are solid and plumb
- The fence is under 15 years old
- Top rail is straight and intact
Replace when:
- Fabric is thinning throughout (you can see light through the wire mesh)
- Multiple posts are leaning
- The fence is 20+ years old with galvanization wearing off (visible rust)
- You're changing height or upgrading gauge
For replacement costs, see our fence replacement cost guide and cost per foot guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I repair chain link fence myself?
Yes — chain link repairs are among the most DIY-friendly of all fence types. Patching, re-tensioning, and hardware replacement require only pliers, tie wire, and basic tools. Fabric replacement requires a come-along or fence stretcher ($40–$60 rental). Browse fence contractors in your area if you'd rather hire a pro.
How much does chain link fence repair cost?
Patch: $50–$150 (pro). Post fix: $150–$400 (pro). Full fabric replacement: $8–$15/ft (pro). DIY costs are typically 60–70% less.
Can I splice new chain link into old?
Yes — this is a standard technique covered in the AFA's chain link training. Use the same gauge and weave the new fabric into the old at the splice point.
Find a Fence Contractor Near You
- Chicago fence companies
- Las Vegas fence companies
- Columbus fence companies
- Milwaukee fence companies
- Cleveland fence companies
- Browse all fence companies →
Are you a fence contractor? Apply for FA Verified status →
*Repair procedures based on reversing AFA Fence Installation School chain link discipline installation methods. ASTM F567-07.*