Tools

Having the right tools on the truck makes the difference between a profitable job and a frustrating one. NMI Fence Supply stocks the professional-grade fence installation tools that contractors rely on daily — from chain link stretching equipment and post-driving tools to specialty hardware for aluminum, vinyl, and wood fence systems.

Chain Link Installation Essentials

Every chain link installation requires a core set of tools:

• Fence stretcher / come-along — The most critical tool for a proper chain link installation. Attaches to the stretcher bar and pulls the fabric tight against the terminal post. A good come-along with a 15-foot pull capacity handles fences up to 12 feet tall.
• Stretcher bars — Flat steel bars threaded through the end of the chain link fabric before stretching. Available in heights matching standard fence sizes (4', 5', 6', 8', 10', 12').
• Tension bands and tension bars — Secure the stretched fabric to terminal posts. Tension bands bolt around the post and grip the tension bar for a clean, tight installation.
• Hog ring pliers and hog rings — Used to attach chain link fabric to line wire and top rail. Hog ring pliers speed up this repetitive task significantly.
• Tie wire and tie wire twister — Aluminum tie wire secures fabric to the framework. A tie wire twister tool makes consistent, tight connections faster than pliers.

Post Installation Tools

Setting posts efficiently requires the right digging and driving equipment:

• Post hole diggers — Manual clamshell diggers for small jobs, or hydraulic auger attachments for skid steers and tractors on large installations. Two-person gas-powered augers offer a middle ground for medium-sized projects.
• Post drivers — Gas-powered or manual post drivers for driving T-posts and small-diameter posts without concrete. Essential for temporary fencing and agricultural installations.
• Post levels — Magnetic post levels that attach to the post during setting, freeing both hands for bracing and pouring concrete. A must-have for plumb, professional-looking installations.

Specialty Tools

Beyond the basics, specialized tools handle specific tasks:

• Banding tools — For applying steel banding to secure fence panels to posts in commercial and industrial applications.
• Crimping tools — For securing fence ties, sleeve connections, and cable hardware.
• Rail benders — For shaping top rail to follow terrain contours on chain link installations.
• Vinyl fence tools — Post hole routers, panel jigs, and specialized fastening equipment for vinyl fence systems.

Not sure what tools you need for your next project? Consult our fence post spacing guide for installation planning tips.