Knowing how to install a wooden fence post properly is very beneficial. Many people desire to install fences around their properties for a number of reasons. Some people like the privacy that a newly installed fence provides while other people want to be able to control who has access to their property. While there are a number of ways in which fences can be erected, knowing how to do so correctly is very important. All too often people attempt to build their own fences, but they do so in adequately leading to a fence that is structurally unbalanced. The main reason for this is because people do not install the wooden fence posts correctly.

The following details how to properly install the wooden fence posts in a property to ensure that a fence is secure.

1. It is necessary for individuals to do research and background work prior to building a fence. This activity will require digging so it is important that the builder is aware of the positioning of all utility lines such as power, gas and water that run on the property. Likewise, the builder should make sure that all property line issues are settled prior to beginning the building of the fence. Also, some locations require that certain add-ons to a property be approved through homeowner’s associations. Make sure all of these steps are completed prior to the building of a fence.

2. To begin to install a wooden fence post the builder will have to complete a layout which establishes where the fence posts will be located. In general, it is best to place each post about 8 feet apart; this may vary based on the size of the property. Using a wooden stakes and a tape measure start the process of marking and staking the locations for the wooden fence posts. After all the posts are installed, mark the perimeter of the area that will be the fence with a string in order to establish the outline of the fence. Marking the perimeter will allow the builder to make any necessary adjustments that may be needed due to obstructions.

3. After staking the ground for the posts and marking the perimeter, the fence posts need to be built. In general, the wooden fence posts should be two feet taller than the desired height of the fence. The wooden posts can be cut by hand by the builder, or the post can be pre-cut at the lumber yard if so desired.

4. Next, digging of the holes for the wooden posts is required. This step will require the use of a tool known as a post hole auger. The auger will assist the fence builder in making the holes that are needed for the posts, and the use of a gas powered auger is highly recommended to help facilitate the digging of the holes. At each stake, position the auger in the center on the staked location and begin digging a hole that is about two feet.

5. Once the holes for the fence posts are finished, it will be necessary to add a material to the hole to offer stability to the fence post. Pour a couple of inches of gravel into each hole and then place each of the fence posts into a hole. Make sure to use a level to ensure everything is even.

6. After setting the fence post in place with the gravel concrete should be added to the hole to officially hold each fence post in place. The concrete should be mixed per the manufacturer’s instructions. Once mixed the concrete should be poured in the holes to ground level. Take additional concrete and add it to the area around the post to allow for water to run off and away from the post during inclement weather.

7. Check each post for stability and evenness making any adjustments that are needed. Allow the posts to set in the concrete for at least twenty four hours before continuing to build the rest of the fence.