Should metal fence posts be set in concrete?
You tend to get a better long-term result by setting the fence posts in concrete as opposed to gravel. When setting fence posts in concrete, it’s best to let the concrete dry for three or four days before attaching your fence rails, panels or pickets.
How deep should steel fence posts be set?
The depth of the post hole needs to be 1/3 to 1/2 the height of your fence. For example, if you are building a fence that’s 6 feet tall, you will need a hole that is at least 2 feet deep. That also means that you’d need to use an 8-foot post. The hole will need to be about 3 times the width of your post.
Why you shouldn’t use concrete for fence posts?
Not only does burying them in concrete make for more work down the line, it actually can speed up the rotting. The concrete creates a collar around the post, and because different materials expand and contract with mosture and temperature at different rates, inevitably a little space develops around the post.
Does filling a post with concrete make it stronger?
Filling with concrete is not as effective as increasing wall thickness or changing the shape, but it’s a proven technique.
Should fence posts be on my side?
Customers having new fencing installed often ask us exactly where they should position their new fence. Getting it right avoids (potentially costly) disputes over encroachment in the future. As a rule of thumb, the outer face of the fence should be placed along the boundary. The posts should stand on your land.
How deep should an 8 foot post be in the ground?
In general, holes should be at least 3 feet deep for posts that extend 8 feet or more above ground level. Posts that extend 6 feet above ground level should have holes at least 2 1/2 feet deep.
How deep should post be for 8 foot fence?
about 2 feet deep
How Deep Should a Fence Post Be? For an average fence post, about 6 to 8 feet tall, prepare to dig a post hole about 2 feet deep. To install a fence post, you’ll need a shovel or post digger, a 6-foot level, soil, and gravel or crushed stone.
What is the best way to set fence posts?
As a rule, you should set fence posts about 6′ to 8′ apart. The spacing of the posts depends on the type of fence you build, the terrain, the purpose of the fence, and other such factors. Set the corner or end post first. Then stretch a line from each corner or end post to align all the posts in between.
How long does it take fence posts to set?
When fast-setting concrete mix is used, setting takes place in 20 to 40 minutes. Typically, you can apply some weight to the posts after 4 hours, but it’s a good idea to wait at least 24 hours before resuming fence construction.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Dig the post hole to at least 24 inches deep, using post hole diggers and a digging bar or a mechanical soil auger; for the best chance of preventing upheaval, set the post as deep as 40 inches if possible. The hole should be about two to three times the diameter of the fence post.
How do you place a fence post?
Decide how far apart you’d like to set the fence posts. Typically, fence posts are spaced between six and eight feet apart. The corner posts are set first. To align all of the posts in between, stretch a line from each corner post to work as your guide. Mark the exact position where you’d like each post hole dug.
