Install fence posts by setting out the fence line and post spacing first, digging each hole to the required depth, then setting every post plumb, square and correctly aligned before securing it. For a conventional ground-set post, we normally use rapid-set Postmix.
1. Set out the fence line before digging
Mark the start, end, corners and gate openings, then use a string line to establish the fence line. Work out the post spacing before digging so the bays suit the fencing system you are installing.
For standard fence panels, use the actual panel width. For our standard featheredge layout, we normally use 6ft post centres. See How Far Apart Should Fence Posts Be?.
2. Choose the post size and total length
The post needs enough length for the finished fence height plus the section going into the ground. For a typical 6ft fence with around 600mm buried, an 8ft post is the normal starting point.
Choose the section and total length from our Treated Softwood Fence Posts, then check How Deep Should Fence Posts Be? for the burial depth.
3. Dig the fence post holes
Dig each hole to suit the required post depth and ground conditions. For timber posts, we normally put a fine layer of gravel or hardcore in the bottom for drainage before inserting the post.
For the hole itself, use a suitable digging method for the ground and required depth. We stock Roughneck Fence Post Hole Diggers for removing soil from narrow post holes, plus digging bars and other Fencing Tools.
4. Set the post plumb, square and on the fence line
Position the post in the hole and check it from more than one direction with a level. Keep the face of the post aligned to the string line and make sure the post is square to the fence run where the fencing system requires it.
Support the post while it is being secured so it cannot move out of position.
5. Secure a conventional ground-set post with Postmix
For normal ground-set fencing, we use Wern-Wood 20kg Rapid-Set Postmix. For our normal method, brace the post first, add clean water to roughly one-third of the hole, then pour the Postmix evenly around the post. Add a little more water only where needed so there are no obvious dry pockets or puddling.
For standard 75mm and 100mm timber posts, we normally allow around 1.5–2 bags per post. For the full mixing and setting method, see How to Use Postcrete / Postmix for Fence Posts.
Installing concrete fence posts uses the same setting-out sequence
For concrete fence posts, set out the line and spacing first, dig to the required depth, position and support the post plumb, then secure it with Postmix. Concrete posts commonly use around 2 bags per post, depending on the hole and ground conditions.
Keep the post supported while the Postmix sets and finish the top of the footing so water can run away rather than sit around the post. Once the posts are set, continue with How to Fit Fence Panels Between Concrete Posts.
Fence posts do not always need concrete
Compatible timber posts can be installed without a conventional concrete or Postmix footing. Drive-in post spikes are an option in suitable firm ground, while bolt-down post supports or post shoes suit a suitable solid concrete or masonry base.
Choose the fixing method before ordering the post and match the support to the actual post size. If the post is going into a dug hole, use a suitable ground-contact post and an appropriate setting material.
6. Check the post again before moving on
Before the fixing material sets, recheck the line, height, level and orientation of the post. Correcting the post now is much easier than correcting the fence after the rails, gravel boards or panels have been fitted.
Continue with the fencing system
For framed panels between timber posts, continue with How to Install Fence Panels Between Timber Posts. For slotted concrete posts and panels, use How to Fit Fence Panels Between Concrete Posts.
Shop Fence Posts or go directly to our UC4 Treated Timber Fence Posts.
