How to Install Winged Slats for a Fence

Chain-link fences provide homeowners a low-cost way to enclose their yards, protect their property and designate property boundaries. Although they're maintenance free, decay resistant and made to withstand all kinds of weather -- they provide very little privacy. One way to increase your privacy, however, is to install PVC winged slats. The serrated wings on each side of the slats cause them to inter-lock, adding additional screening. No special skills are required; the installation simply involves sliding the slats through the chain-link mesh.

Tape measure

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the height of your chain-link fence to determine the size of the winged slats to purchase. Slats are made to fit standard fence heights of 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 feet. If your fence is taller than 8 feet, use two equal lengths of slats. For example, if your fence is 10 feet tall, use two 5-foot lengths of slats.
- 2
  Measure the length of your fence. Winged slats are typically sold in bags, and each bag covers 10 linear feet. For example, if your fence is a standard height and is 70 feet long, you will need to purchase seven bags.
- 3
  Look down from the top of the chain-link fence. Notice how the weave of the chain-link mesh creates an oval tunnel. The slats are pushed through the tunnel during installation.
- 4
  Hold the first slat vertically with the angled end facing down. Start at one end of your fence line and slide the winged slat through the first tunnel from top to bottom. Do not push it all the way to the bottom of the fence. The slats are made 2 inches shorter than the height of the fence, allowing you to have a 1-inch gap at the top and bottom.
- 5
  Repeat the process of installing the winged slats as you work your way toward the opposite end of the fence. Align the tops of the slats for a uniform look.

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