Edges the fabric for terminal posts
A flat bar threaded vertically through the last row of diamonds at each end of the chain-link fabric, then clamped to the end, corner and gate posts with tension bands and carriage bolts.
Fencing Components
Tension Bar
Tension Bar is a flat steel bar threaded vertically through the end row of chain-link fabric and clamped to the terminal post with tension bands, so the fabric can be pulled tight and held at the perimeter. It threads into position, then the bands and carriage bolts do the actual work of holding that edge secure against the outward pull of the mesh. Specify section, length and finish, and the quantity you need.
At a glance
Tension Bar at a glance.
Section and length by fabric height
3/16 x 5/8, 3/16 x 3/4 and 1/4 x 3/4 in bars for 3 to 12 ft fences, 2 in shorter than the fabric. Metric stretcher bars 20 x 5 and 25 x 5 mm. Round bars and mini bars to order.
Stretcher bars, thread patterns and materials by region
Chain-link systems use stretcher bars bolted to angle posts, and mesh fencing uses bars threaded through the mesh. GV sources each form to your drawing.
Also known as
Also called tension bars in the US. Spanish-speaking crews call it barra de tensión.
- US English
- Español (US)
Thread and clamp the fabric edge to terminal posts
Thread the bar down through the end row of the mesh. Tension bands then clamp the bar to the terminal post, fixed with carriage bolts, so the mesh can be stretched along the run and held tight at each end.
Common applications
Where it is used.
Commercial and industrial perimeter fencing
The standard way to fix chain-link mesh to terminal posts on commercial, industrial and utility fences, where the mesh has to stay tight along long runs.
Ends, corners and gate posts
Every terminal post takes a tension bar on each face where mesh ends, so a corner post carries two.
Gate fabric attachment
Tension bars run up the trailing edge of gate leaves, clamped at the frame, so the gate fabric can be stretched tight and held parallel to the gate frame as it swings closed.
Questions answered
Common questions.
What else is a tension bar called?
In the US it's called a tension bar or chain link tension bar. Spanish speakers call it a barra de tensión.
What sizes of tension bars are available?
Tension bars come in 3/16 x 5/8 inch for residential chain-link, 3/16 x 3/4 inch for commercial fences up to 12 ft and 1/4 x 3/4 inch for industrial fences. Each bar is 2 inches shorter than the mesh height. Metric options: 20 x 5 and 25 x 5 mm.
Part of the chain-link fence framework
Tension Bar holds the mesh at every terminal post in the chain-link fence framework, working with Fence Fittings, Carriage Bolt and the Truss Rod that braces the post.
Explore fencing systems ↗Tension Bar specifications
Tension Bar configuration
ParameterUS / PrimaryMetric / Additional
Size3/16 x 5/8, 3/16 x 3/4, 1/4 x 3/4 in20 x 5, 25 x 5 mm
LengthFor 3-12 ft fences; 2 in shorter than the fabric0.9-3.6 m; 50 mm shorter than the fabric
Mesh3/16 x 3/4 in for 1-3/4 and 2 in mesh; 1/4 x 3/8 in for 1 in mesh3/16 x 3/4 in for 1-3/4 and 2 in mesh; 1/4 x 3/8 in for 1 in mesh
FinishHot dip galvanizedHot dip galvanized
OptionMini bars, round bars and custom sizes availableMini bars, round bars and custom sizes available
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