Fence posts provide the structural support for garden boundaries, timber fence panels, closeboard fencing and other fencing systems. Wade Building Supplies stocks timber and concrete fence posts in different sizes and configurations to suit a range of domestic, commercial and agricultural projects.
The range includes green and brown pressure-treated wooden fence posts, slotted concrete fence posts, concrete gravel boards and post fixing accessories. Selecting the correct post depends on the fence design, panel dimensions, ground conditions and installation method.
Fence Post Types and Sizes
The main considerations when choosing fence posts are the material, post dimensions, required length and method of fixing. The available options include:
75 x 75mm Timber Posts 2.4m posts for compatible garden fencing and boundary installations.
100 x 100mm Timber Posts Larger-section timber posts for fencing projects requiring a 100mm square post.
Brown Treated Posts Pressure-treated softwood with a brown finish for external fencing applications.
Green Treated Posts Pressure-treated softwood with a green finish for external fencing applications.
Concrete Fence Posts Slotted concrete posts for compatible fence panel systems, including intermediate, end and corner configurations.
Concrete Gravel Boards Used at the base of compatible fencing systems to separate panels from the ground.
Choosing Wooden or Concrete Fence Posts
Timber Fence Posts
Pressure-treated timber fence posts are used with compatible fence panels, featheredge boards, vertical board fencing and other timber fencing systems. Available in brown and green finishes, they can be cut to length where required and installed using a suitable below-ground fixing method or compatible post support.
Timber posts can be useful where the fence line follows changes in ground level or requires adjustments during installation. Select the post dimensions and embedment depth to suit the fence height and site conditions.
Concrete Fence Posts
Concrete fence posts are used with compatible slotted fence panels and gravel boards. Intermediate posts support adjoining fence panels, while end and corner posts are designed for different positions along the fence line.
Check the post slot configuration, panel dimensions and gravel board compatibility before ordering. Concrete posts are heavy and require appropriate handling and installation equipment.
Trade tip: Establish the fence line and post positions before installation. Fit end and corner posts first where appropriate, then use a string line to help align the intermediate posts. Allow for the dimensions of the panels, posts and any gravel boards when calculating the total fence length.
Fence Post Installation and Accessories
The fixing method depends on the post type, ground conditions and fence design. Suitable installation options and accessories may include:
Postmix concrete for suitable timber post installations
Drive-in post spikes for compatible timber posts
Bolt-down post shoes for suitable hard surfaces
Slotted concrete posts for compatible fence panels
Concrete gravel boards for compatible fencing systems
Appropriate rails, brackets and fencing fixings
Post spikes and bolt-down shoes must be compatible with the post dimensions and intended loading. Bolt-down supports also require a suitable substrate and appropriate fixings. They are not interchangeable with below-ground installation methods in every situation.
Fence Posts FAQs
What size fence post do I need?
The required post size depends on the fence height, panel type, spacing, ground conditions and expected wind loading. Common timber sizes include 75 x 75mm and 100 x 100mm. Choose a suitable post for the specific fencing system rather than selecting by dimensions alone.
What is the difference between green and brown treated fence posts?
Green and brown treated fence posts are timber products supplied in different finishes. The colour alone does not establish the level of preservative protection. Check the treatment specification and intended application when choosing posts for external use.
Are timber fence posts suitable for ground contact?
Timber fence posts are commonly installed partly below ground. Suitability depends on the preservative treatment, installation conditions, drainage and expected exposure. Confirm that the treatment is appropriate for the intended ground-contact use.
Should I choose timber or concrete fence posts?
Timber posts are commonly used with timber rails, featheredge boards and compatible fence panels. Concrete posts are commonly used with compatible slotted panels and concrete gravel boards.
Consider the fence system, appearance, ground conditions, installation requirements and handling arrangements before deciding.
What are concrete gravel boards used for?
Gravel boards sit at the bottom of compatible fencing systems, between the posts. They help separate the fence panel from direct contact with the ground and can help accommodate changes in ground level, depending on the installation.
Can I install fence posts on concrete or paving?
Suitable timber posts may be secured using compatible bolt-down post shoes on an appropriate concrete base. The substrate, anchors, post shoe and expected loads must all be suitable for the installation. A bolt-down shoe is not appropriate for every fence or surface.
How far apart should fence posts be installed?
Post spacing depends on the fence panel width, construction method, post dimensions and expected loading. For panel fencing, position posts to suit the manufacturer's panel dimensions and the specified fitting arrangement. For bespoke timber fencing, allow for the rails, boards and fixings when setting out the fence line.
How do I calculate how many fence posts I need?
Measure the fence line and establish the panel widths or intended post spacing. Include posts at the ends, corners and either side of gate openings where required. The final quantity will depend on the layout and the fencing system.
Check the overall dimensions before ordering to account for post widths, panel sizes and any changes in direction.
Can fence posts be cut to length?
Timber posts can generally be cut using suitable woodworking equipment. Follow the tool manufacturer's safety instructions, control sawdust and use appropriate protective equipment. Apply a compatible preservative to freshly cut surfaces in accordance with the treatment manufacturer's instructions.
Concrete posts require appropriate cutting equipment and precautions against dust and flying debris. Consider whether cutting is necessary before installation.
