Fence Posts
Fence posts provide structural support for fencing systems. Available in treated timber and concrete, they ensure strength, stability, and long-term durability for garden and boundary fencing.
About Fence Posts
Fence posts provide the main support for a fencing run, holding panels, rails or boards securely in place. They are one of the most important parts of any fence, as the strength, stability and lifespan of the finished installation often depend on choosing the right post for the job.
Timber fence posts are a popular choice for garden fencing, closeboard fencing, post and rail fencing, gates and general landscaping projects. They offer a traditional look, are easy to work with on site, and can be used with a wide range of fencing components. Treated timber posts provide added protection against moisture and decay, making them suitable for outdoor use.
Concrete fence posts offer a strong, low-maintenance alternative, especially for long-lasting boundary fencing. They are resistant to rot and can provide excellent support for fence panels when used with gravel boards. Whether you are replacing a damaged post, installing a new garden fence or choosing between timber and concrete options, the right fence posts help create a secure and durable fencing system.
The right fence post depends on the fencing system, ground conditions and finish you want. Timber posts are easy to work with and suit traditional fencing, closeboard fencing, gates and landscaping projects. Concrete posts are heavier but very durable and resistant to rot. Slotted concrete posts are ideal for fence panels, while morticed timber posts are commonly used with arris rails for featheredge or closeboard fencing.
Timber fence posts give a natural look and are easier to cut, drill and fix into on site. They are commonly used for garden fencing, gates, rails and landscaping. Concrete fence posts are more durable, rot resistant and low maintenance, making them a strong choice for long-lasting panel fencing. Concrete posts are heavier to handle but usually last longer than timber in wet ground.
Slotted concrete fence posts are used with standard fence panels and concrete or timber gravel boards. The panel slides down into the slots, creating a strong and tidy fencing system without needing brackets or rails. They are a good choice for garden boundaries because damaged panels can often be lifted out and replaced without removing the posts.
Morticed fence posts have pre-cut slots or mortices designed to take arris rails. They are mainly used for featheredge or closeboard fencing, where the rails fit into the posts and support the vertical boards. This creates a strong traditional fence run and is often preferred for longer boundaries, sloped gardens or areas where a more robust timber fence is needed.
The post size depends on the fence height, post spacing, fencing type and ground conditions. Taller fences usually need longer and stronger posts, with enough length set into the ground for stability. Timber posts are commonly chosen by section size, such as 75 x 75mm or 100 x 100mm, while concrete posts are often selected by overall length to suit the panel and gravel board height.
As a general guide, fence posts are often set around one third of their length into the ground, or deep enough to give proper stability for the fence height and exposure. For many garden fences, this is commonly around 600mm, but taller fences, soft ground or exposed sites may need deeper holes. Always make sure posts are firmly set and aligned before fitting panels or rails.
Post mix concrete is commonly used to secure timber and concrete fence posts in the ground. It helps hold the post upright, improves stability and reduces movement once the fence is installed. It is especially useful for panel fencing, taller fences and exposed areas. Make sure each post is level and correctly positioned before the concrete sets.
Yes, fence posts can be used with gravel boards, but the setup depends on the post type. Slotted concrete posts are designed to accept panels and gravel boards within the slot. Timber posts can also be used with timber gravel boards, usually fixed directly or with suitable brackets. Gravel boards help protect the fence panel from ground moisture and can improve the overall finish.