Residential Fencing Using Metal Fence Posts

Over that past few years metal fence posts have become very popular in residential fence building. The standard 4 by 4 pressure treated wooden posts are just not as strong as they used to be. In the past pressure treated lumber would last 25 years but not anymore. You would be lucky to get maybe 6 years out of a pressure treated wooden fence post these days. That is why more and more residential customers are choosing metal fence posts for their fencing projects

Why Wooden 4 x 4 Fence Posts Fail

Some say the reason pressure treated posts are failing is due to strict ecological standards that have caused chemicals used in the treatment process to be weakened or changed to suit the environment. Whatever the reason if you are wasting money replacing fence posts after only 6 years metal fence posts are the answer to your problem.

The Benefits Of Metal Fence Posts

Maximum strength is the number one reason to replace your wooden fence posts for galvanized metal fence posts. Metal fence posts do not bend even in over 70 mph winds. They are mostly maintenance free requiring no staining or painting unless you want to paint them. Galvanized metal fencing posts won’t rot and will last over 25 years if installed properly.

Metal post are easier to set in concrete and come with pre-drilled holes for installing fence boards. While pests are a problem with wooden posts these metal posts are not effected by any pests. The cost per post is very reasonable when you consider these benefits. At $15-$40 per post you are getting the best post you can buy for a residential fencing job.

Stability And Peace Of Mind

Metal fence posts are very sturdy and can hold up heavier fencing. These posts are sturdy and can handle the heaviest storm short of a hurricane or tornado. For security metal posts are harder to break through providing more safety for a residential or even commercial application. Nothing is worse then having to rebuild a fence that has fallen during a storm. With metal posts you won’t have to worry.

Covering Up The Metal Fence Posts For Aesthetics

Some people may not like the idea of metal posts being exposed and think they look tacky. Not to fear as these posts can be covered using fence boards or boxed in making an attractive feature to your fencing. Metal fence posts can also be covered in primer and a paint that closely matches the fence boards blending them in to the structure.

Buying the Correct Metal Post For The Job

When deciding to use metal for your fence post choose based on weather conditions in your area, the terrain which may be sloped or contain clay or moving soil. Think about the climate you live in if it rains a lot or if it can get very windy. Metal posts come in lengths from 3 ft. to 12 ft. long and in different gauge strength. Thicker posts are recommended for strong winds and taller and heavier fencing.

Tools and Materials Required

Metal fence posts are installed very similar to wooden fence posts. The tools needed are also the same.

Post Hole Digger
A Level
Tape Measurer
Wheelbarrow
Drill and Screws
Mechanical Saw
Saw Horses
Hacksaw & Metal Blades

Attaching Wood Fence Panels To Metal Posts

When attaching wood rails and boards to the metal post use brackets and fasteners that are specifically for metal fence posts and the type of post you are purchasing. Your local hardware store or online shop can help you find the right hardware needed for this when buying the posts.

Preventative Measures

Using a cap on top of the posts can help keep water from entering between a double post design. Choose hardware that is corrosion resistant like galvanized, aluminum or stainless steel. Painting the posts or applying a rust inhibitor coating will help protect the post even further against the elements.