Putting Fence Posts On Concrete

Core drill holes through concrete.

Putting fence posts on concrete.

Setting a post is the foundational step for many projects including building a fence or a deck. Place the form tube into the hole. Fast setting concrete is ideal for installing fence posts since it doesn t need to be mixed in a bucket or a wheelbarrow. Using a rented core drill you can drill a hole through your concrete slab for each fence post.

But before you decide to put one up yourself learn how to set your fence posts properly to ensure that. 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. A well constructed fence can protect privacy define your property and enhance curb appeal. Pour the dry mix into the tube.

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. Dig post hole so diameter of the hole is 3 times the width of the post i e the hole for a 4 wood post should be about 12 inches wide. Then set your post in place and use a level to ensure that it s perfectly. It s also a good idea when installing gate posts to provide extra stability.

Apply high quality exterior acrylic latex caulk or silicone specifically designed to adhere to concrete at the base of the post. Set the post into the form and temporarily stand straight. This will seal the gap between the concrete and post that s caused by freeze thaw cycles. Concrete may be necessary if you are installing a fence in sandy soil or in very soft muddy soil.

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. Learn how to dig post holes and set 4x4 posts with gravel c. The main downside to concrete is its ability to trap water around the post. Installing fence posts in place with concrete is the best way to guarantee that they remain upright and unmoving but you might not relish the idea of mixing batch after batch of concrete to fill.