While a tension bar might appear to be nothing more than an elongated piece of metal, it is actually one of the most essential parts in the assembly of chain link fences. These are the accessories providing the tension needed to stretch and stabilize fence fabric. Consequently, it helps prevent animals and people from crawling under the fabric. An important note: Before installing the tension bars and chain link fabric, the terminal posts on your fence need to be fitted with tension bands.
After you’ve installed your line posts, terminal posts, top rails, and tension bands, it is time to attach the chain link fabric. To do so, unroll the fabric and stand up one end of it so that it is parallel to the nearest terminal post. Keep the fabric in place and carefully slide the 144″ tension bar vertically through the tension bands as well as the “knuckles” that make up the end of the fabric. Using the same method, install a second tension bar on the opposite end of the same stretch of fabric. The tension provided by both bars will stretch the fabric. Now you have a strong, resistant chain link fence panel.
Two tension bars are needed for each stretch of fabric. Install a bar at every corner, end, and gate post. This 144″ Tension Bar has been galvanized, meaning it is rust resistant and long-lasting.
