How to Use Metal Posts for a Wood Fence
The use of metal posts in the construction of a wooden fence just makes good sense. Not only do metal posts provide additional structural security, they also make the replacement of damaged or missing fence material easier and less expensive. A durable metal post will remain even if fencing materials fail. Thus, there is no requirement to purchase and install new posts, only the less expensive fencing material.
- Set Holes and Levels: Set holes at the distance specified by your manufacturer, keeping them at least 12 to 18 inches in diameter and 34 inches deep. Bell out the bottoms and add a few "dogs’ legs" to prevent posts from tipping. Continue placing holes until you have the proper number required by your manufacturer. String up a line level roughly 3 to 4 inches from the ground and adjust it so that it rests in front of each hole.
- Mix the Concrete: Each hole requires around three or four sacks of concrete to properly set a post. Mix the concrete with water in the belly of a wheelbarrow to enable easy transport. You want the concrete’s consistency to be stiff enough to set the posts, but loose enough to settle down into the hole around the post as well.
- Plant the First Post: This job requires at least two people to accomplish. One person needs to hold the post while the other shovels concrete into the post hole. There will be a label on the post that indicates the bottom of the fence. Set the label on the post so that it rests evenly with the line level. Check to make sure the post stays plum during planting. Repeat for remaining posts.
- Attach the Hardware: Your fence assembly will come with a pre-packaged set of bolts, hinges and any other necessary hardware. These attach directly to pre-drilled holes located in your posts. Attach all hardware and tighten them securely to prevent damage. Carefully maneuver your wooden fence leaf into the provided positions on the post and secure with provided bolts.