Grab your tension bar and align it with the first terminal post before reviewing the breakdown sitting on edmond fence installation solerarestaurant lists them in order to ensure a proper chain link installation in Edmond, OK. This mechanical process requires specific torque and alignment to prevent fabric sagging or post leaning. You must start with a solid concrete footing to provide the necessary resistance against the pull of the mesh. If the post is not set deep enough below the frost line, the tension will pull the terminal post out of plumb during the first season.
Terminal Post Preparation
Begin by centering the terminal post within the post hole. Once the concrete has cured, inspect the post cap to ensure it is seated firmly. Slide the tension bar through the fabric mesh at the very end of the run. The bar must be straight to prevent the mesh from twisting. This bar acts as the primary anchor point for the entire tensioning sequence. Ensure the bar is positioned so that the tension bands will have enough surface area to grip the post without slipping.
Securing the Tension Bar
Place the tension bands around the terminal post, sandwiching the tension bar between the post and the band. Start with the band closest to the fabric edge. Use a heavy duty wrench to tighten the bolts. Do not over tighten immediately. You need to allow for slight movement as you work your way down the length of the post. If the bands are unevenly spaced, the mesh will pull unevenly, creating a wavy appearance along the line. Each band must be perpendicular to the post axis.
Fabric Tensioning Sequence
Attach the tension bar to the mesh using heavy gauge tie wires or specialized clips. Once the bar is anchored to the post, begin the pulling process. Use a fence stretcher to apply constant force to the chain link fabric. Pull the mesh until the diamonds are uniform and tight. While the tension is held, move to the next tension band on the terminal post. Work from the top of the post down to the bottom. This prevents the weight of the mesh from pulling the bar out of the bands during the tightening phase.
Final Banding and Inspection
After the fabric reaches the desired tension, tighten all remaining bands. Check the connection between the mesh and the tension bar one last time. The mesh should not slide when pulled with significant force. Inspect the terminal post for any signs of leaning. If the post remains vertical, the concrete footing has successfully resisted the load. Check every gate hardware component if the run includes a gate, as the tension on the line can affect the alignment of the latch and hinge. Ensure all bolts are snug and the assembly is rigid.