12 Effective Ways to Fix Gaps Under a Chain Link Fence

Are you searching for effective solutions to fill the gap at a chain link’s bottom? When there are gaps, animals often escape from your yard. Moreover, other critters can intrude into your yard to create unwanted issues. Here are 12 tried and tested methods to solve the gap at the bottom side of a chain link:

1. Utilizing Old Tires

You can use old tires to fill the gap on the bottom side of a chain link fence.

It may not be the most attractive solution, but stacking old tires at the base of your chain link fence can help block gaps and keep unwanted animals out.

This is especially useful if your neighbor’s pet keeps sneaking into your yard. The tires create a physical barrier that makes it harder for animals to squeeze through.

For a more creative approach, you can repurpose the tires into a mini garden or a potato planter, turning a temporary fix into something more functional and visually appealing.

How to Do It:

1. Find used tires and clean them.
2. Stack them along the gap where needed.
3. If possible, fill them with soil and plant flowers or vegetables to make them look better.

2. Make use of Cinder or Allan Blocks

These blocks work as strong barriers to protect your pets and keep away other critters.

Cinder blocks are a sturdy and long-lasting solution for closing gaps at the bottom of your fence. Unlike tires, they look more polished and blend in better with most yard designs.

For added effectiveness, partially bury the blocks in the ground. This makes it harder for digging animals—like dogs, rabbits, or other burrowing pests—to get through.

How to Do It:

1. Measure the gap under your fence.
2. Stack cinder blocks tightly along the base.
3. If dealing with burrowing animals, dig a shallow trench and set the blocks into the ground before stacking.

3. Chain Link Fence Stakes

If you pound these stakes into the ground and utilize the hooked portion to catch hold of the link, you can create a perfect barrier.

4. Tent Stakes

Tent stakes are one of the best options to fix the gap at the bottom of a chain link fence.

Chain link fence stakes, also called J stakes or J hooks, are metal rods designed to anchor your fence to the ground.

These are great for stopping small gaps where pets might try to escape or where the fence is loose.

How to Do It:

1. Get 12-inch or 16-inch metal J stakes.
2. Position them along the fence where gaps exist.
3. Use a hammer or mallet to pound the stakes deep into the ground.
4. Hook the top of the stake onto the bottom of the fence to secure it.

This is a great low-cost solution that helps reinforce your fence without making major modifications.

5. Create a Decorative Garden Fence

You can make a decorative garden fence in front of the chain link fence to fill the gap.

A small decorative garden fence can act as an extra layer of defense by closing off gaps while adding a stylish touch to your yard.

These fences are commonly used as lawn edging or flower bed borders, but they can also reinforce a chain link fence.

How to Do It:

1. Purchase small garden fence panels from a home improvement store.
2. Pound them into the ground in front of the chain link fence.
3. Secure them to the chain link with zip ties for added stability.

This method is simple, affordable, and adds a bit of charm to your outdoor space while keeping animals where they belong.

6. Install a Tension Wire

If you want to cover the gap beneath a chain link fence, you can install a tension wire.

Tension wire won’t completely seal the gap under your fence, but it will help keep the bottom of the fence tight and prevent sagging.

This is a good option if your fence bulges outward or if pets try to push under it.

How to Do It:

1. Purchase tension wire from a hardware store.
2. Thread the wire through the bottom of the fence.
3. Pull it tight and attach it securely using wire clamps or fasteners.

With a properly installed tension wire, the fence stays firm against the ground, making it harder for animals to slip underneath.

These solutions range from quick fixes to more permanent upgrades, so choose the one that best fits your needs and budget!

7. Use an L-Footer

Install an L-footer to offer the best protection to your pets.

One of the best ways to close a gap under a chain link fence is by installing a buried L-shaped mesh barrier. This technique creates a strong, underground defense against digging animals and erosion.

• How It Works: Secure a heavy-duty wire mesh or galvanized hardware cloth to the bottom of your existing fence, extending it downward at a 90-degree angle. The bottom section should run outward underground to form an “L” shape.
• Installation Tips: Use zip ties, hog rings, or metal fasteners to attach the vertical section of the mesh to your fence. Bury the horizontal section at least 6 to 12 inches deep and cover it with soil, gravel, or heavy rocks to keep it in place.
• Why It’s Effective: The outward-facing underground section prevents dogs from digging their way out and keeps wildlife from burrowing in. It also adds stability to your fence by reinforcing its lower portion.

8. Utilize a Bottom Rail

A bottom rail is an essential component for improving the structural integrity of a chain link fence. It provides extra rigidity and prevents the bottom of the fence from being pushed outward.

• Installation Options:
  • If you’re building a new fence, consider welding a bottom rail directly to the posts for maximum durability.
  • For existing fences, you can attach a bottom rail using rail ends and brackets. These fittings connect the rail to your fence posts securely.
• Choosing the Right Materials: Standard chain link fence rails come in different diameters, so be sure to measure your existing posts before purchasing. Heavy-gauge galvanized steel rails offer the best strength and longevity.
• Added Benefits: In addition to keeping the fence sturdy, a bottom rail prevents sagging and helps keep pets contained by closing off any gaps near the ground.

10. Lower the Current Bottom Rail

You can lower the current bottom rail to cover the gap between the ground and rail.

If your fence already has a bottom rail but there is still a gap between the rail and the ground, adjusting its height can significantly improve security.

• How to Adjust It:
  • Check if your existing bottom rail can be detached and reinstalled at a lower height.
  • If your fence posts have pre-drilled holes for the rail, you may need to drill new ones closer to the ground.
  • Secure the rail tightly to prevent movement and ensure that it aligns properly with the fence fabric.
• Why This Works: A properly positioned bottom rail reduces the space for animals to crawl underneath and reinforces the overall fence structure.

11. Place a Planter Box

Many people place a planter box in front of their chain link fence to fix the gap.

If you’re looking for a solution that combines security with aesthetic appeal, planter boxes are a great choice.

They act as a physical barrier while enhancing your outdoor space.

• Placement: Arrange long, rectangular planter boxes along the bottom of your fence, directly covering any gaps.
• Best Materials: Use heavy-duty wooden, metal, or concrete planter boxes to ensure stability. Lightweight plastic planters may shift over time.
• Added Benefits:
  • Provides a natural, decorative touch to your yard.
  • Serves as an additional weight to keep the fence stable.
  • Deters pets from trying to dig under the fence.

For extra reinforcement, consider securing the boxes to the fence using brackets or anchoring them with stakes to prevent shifting.

12. Attach Horizontal Wood Boards

Wood boards can be attached to the bottom of the chain link fence horizontally to cover the gap.

A more permanent and sturdy solution is to install wooden boards along the bottom of the fence, creating a solid barrier that eliminates any gaps.

• How to Attach the Boards:
  • Use metal pipe grip ties, such as Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, to secure wooden boards horizontally along the fence base.
  • Choose pressure-treated wood or rot-resistant materials for durability.
  • Ensure the boards are installed flush against the ground to block any open spaces.
• Why This is Effective: Wooden barriers add extra strength to your fence, preventing pets from pushing through while also giving your fence a more finished, polished look.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

How to Reinforce the Bottom of a Chain Link Fence:

A chain link fence is only as strong as its weakest point, and gaps at the bottom can be a major vulnerability. Whether you need to keep pets and livestock contained, stop balls from rolling out of a sports field, or enhance security, reinforcing the base of your fence is crucial. Below are the most effective ways to secure the bottom of a chain link fence and prevent any unwanted movement.

---

Option 1: Add Bottom Tension Wire for Extra Strength

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to reinforce a chain link fence is by installing a bottom tension wire. This high-strength wire runs along the base of the fence, preventing it from being lifted or pushed outward by animals or external forces.

Installing Bottom Tension Wire on a New Fence

• After setting the posts and securing the top rail, install the tension wire before stretching the chain link fabric.
• Attach the wire to the terminal posts by wrapping it securely or fastening it to a bolt and brace band.
• Use a cable puller or T-bar to tighten the wire along the length of the fence.
• Stretch the chain link fabric over the tightened tension wire to create a firm barrier.

Retrofitting an Existing Fence with Tension Wire

• Remove any existing bottom ties holding the chain link fabric in place.
• Stretch the tension wire along the outer side of the fence, ensuring it is parallel to the ground.
• Once tightened, tuck the wire under the fence fabric so that it sits between the posts and chain link.
• Secure the wire to the chain link fabric with hog rings every two feet, or more frequently for added security.
• Reattach fence ties at the bottom of the posts.

Tension Wire Options:

• 7-Gauge Galvanized Spiral Wire – Strong and rust-resistant.
• 6-Gauge Vinyl-Coated Wire (Black, Green, Brown) – Durable with added weather protection.
• 7-Gauge Aluminized Wire – Corrosion-resistant, ideal for high-humidity areas.
• 6-Gauge Aluminum Wire – Lightweight but sturdy, great for quick installations.

---

Option 2: Use U-Shaped Stakes to Secure the Base

If pets or livestock are still pushing the fence outward, adding U-shaped stakes can provide extra anchoring. These stakes, made from cut and bent chain link truss rods, hold the tension wire firmly against the ground.

How to Install U-Shaped Stakes:

• Cut truss rods into 18-inch sections and bend them into a horseshoe shape.
• Drive one or two stakes per section between the posts, positioning them over the bottom tension wire.
• Ensure the stakes are deep enough to prevent movement but not so deep that they interfere with the fence structure.

This method works well in combination with tension wire to create a more rigid, escape-proof barrier.

---

Option 3: Install a Bottom Rail for Maximum Stability

A bottom rail adds structural reinforcement, preventing the fence from flexing or bowing at the base. It also creates a clean, professional finish that improves both function and appearance.

Choosing the Right Bottom Rail:

• Match the diameter of your existing top rail—typically 1-3/8” O.D. or 1-5/8” O.D.
• Available in 21’ or 24’ lengths, requiring cutting for a custom fit.
• Choose from different grades:
  • .065 Wall (16 Gauge) – Standard strength.
  • HF20 or HF40 – Heavy-duty options for added durability.
  • Vinyl-Coated Framework – Aesthetic and rust-resistant, available in multiple colors.

Installation Steps:

1. Attach to Terminal Posts: Use end rail clamps or rail end cups secured with brace bands.
2. Connect to Line Posts: Use line rail clamps (also known as “boulevards”) to secure the rail at intervals.
3. Cut to Fit: If necessary, cut the rail to size using a pipe cutter or saw.
4. Secure the Rail: Ensure it is level and tightly connected to maintain fence integrity.

Adding a bottom rail provides the highest level of reinforcement, making it an ideal solution for high-traffic areas, large animals, or security-sensitive locations.

---

Final Thoughts

A chain link fence is only as strong as its base. Whether you choose tension wire, U-shaped stakes, or a bottom rail, reinforcing the bottom of your fence will improve its durability, security, and effectiveness. By using the right method for your needs, you can prevent gaps, keep animals contained, and create a long-lasting, sturdy fence that stands up to wear and tear.