Setting Metal Fence Posts In Cement

First dig the holes using an auger or a post hole digger.

Setting metal fence posts in cement.

A well constructed fence can protect privacy define your property and enhance curb appeal. A metal post in concrete won t rust as long as you dome the top of the concrete so water runs away from the post. Putting posts in the ground is an important step in building a fence and pouring cement into the holes will keep your posts sturdy and protected. After digging your hole for the post set one or two bricks in the bottom of the hole to set your post on.

You will of course have to adjust for height and plumb the post. Setting fence posts in concrete set fence posts in fast setting concrete if you re planning to leave the fence in place for a long time or if you have very loose sandy soil. After digging the hole all you need to do is mix your cement and let it set. Step 3 pour water into the dry mix and allow it to soak in.

Rapid set concrete will harden in 15 minutes or even faster on a hot day. One 50 pound bag. Plan to set at least one fourth to one third of the fence post underground and dig the hole accordingly. Fast setting concrete is ideal for installing fence posts since it doesn t need to be mixed in a bucket or a wheelbarrow.

The calculator will give you the results in cubic yards and number of pre mixed bags of concrete 40 lb 60 lb and 80 lb bags. Use enough water to saturate the dry mix. The depth of the hole should be 1 3 1 2 the post height above ground i e a 6 foot tall fence would require a hole depth of at least 2 feet. Use the post hole estimator to quickly find out how much concrete you will need to set your fence posts.

I ll share a clever trick that works well and is very fast. Setting posts one at a time is a good idea but make sure all your posts are braced and ready if using rapid set concrete. Two 50 pound bags of fast setting concrete will set a 4 inch by 4 inch or a 4 inch diameter post in a 10 inch diameter hole 2 feet deep. Be prepared to complete your project quickly.

In just 1 day. Once you ve finished digging your post holes add about three to four inches of gravel into the bottom and compact it using a post or a 2x4. Then set your post in place and use a level to ensure that it s perfectly. Enter your post and hole dimensions in any units.

After all the posts are set and the concrete has cured mix some extra quikrete fast setting concrete mix in a wheelbarrow or bucket following the mix to water ratio on the bag.