How to Put Up Sturdy Fence Posts

Posted by Radmin on June 15th, 2019

If you're planning on putting up a fence around your property, it's important to know how to properly set up its posts. They’re the backbone of the whole structure, and its durability is easily affected by how well you construct its base. Here is a step-by-step guide on exactly how to build a sturdy fence foundation.

Before you start, you'll need these materials:

•          Fence Posts
•          Gravel
•          Rapid Set Concrete For Fence Posts
•          Wooden Stakes
•          Nails

1. Dig the hole for the base.

Dig a hole using a posthole or clamshell digger. Make sure the hole's diameter is at least 3 times the width of the bar. Burrow deep enough so that a third of the post can be buried. Add at least 6 more inches to the depth to allow space for a gravel layer.

2. Pour gravel into the crater and tamp it.

Pour the gravel into the hole to create a layer that's 4-6 inches deep. A layer of small stones helps soil drainage and ensures that water isn’t retained at the post's base. Pound this layer until it’s level all around with a tamper tool or a flat-ended stick. Doing this ensures that the fence pole can stay upright.

3. Position the post properly in the hole.

With assistance, put the fence post into the hole, positioning it so that it shoots up at a 90-degree angle. Have someone hold it steady while you brace it with stakes all around the pole, making sure that the stakes go through the gravel layer. It's essential that you repeat steps 1-3 for all your posts before moving on to the next step so that you position them all correctly before making each base permanent. Pour more gravel into the hole until it's halfway full.

4. Pour the rapid set concrete mixture into the pit and add water.

Make sure that for this step you’re wearing protective gear to cover your mouth, nose, and eyes. Pour the concrete mix into the hole but make sure not to fill it to the brim. Read the instructions on its packaging to learn how much water your mix might need. Add water in increments, slowly letting it seep through to the bottom.

5. Make sure the post is level as you let the concrete dry.

Keep the post upright as the concrete hardens. You can choose to hold it up by hand, or you can create a structure like a carpenter's level with other wood pieces to hold it in place. When the base is set, cover it with soil to hide the concrete.

That's it! You've learned how to put up a sturdy fence without the help of a contractor. Visit your local construction supply store to get rapid set concrete for fence posts and other materials for your fencing project.