What Are Fence Posts?

Typical fence panels include traditional overlaps, picket fences or feather edges. To fulfil the purpose, they need sturdy anchoring. Fence posts ensure longevity and durability of the whole fence structure while defining its style at the same time. 

Types of Wood for Fence Posts

Hardwood Fence Posts

Timber fence posts can be manufactured from a number of soft and hardwood species. Hardwoods like teak, cedar, and ipe are very popular, long-lasting, and not very demanding in terms of maintenance. The initial investment is less cost-effective than other options, but it pays off in durability and appearance. Hardwood fence posts' attractive, naturally vibrant colour also eliminates the need for stains or sealants.

Kwila Fence Posts

Kwila timber is a tropical hardwood of South-East Asian origin. It's characterised by beautiful gold to reddish-brown colour that turns to driftwood grey if left to weather. Kwila timber fence posts are sturdy and durable, easy to install similar to hardwood in maintenance. It's also unusually stable—this kind timber posts don't swell or shrink.

Pine Fence Posts

Pine fence posts are one of the best solutions due to this timber's durability. Even better, it's also one of the most affordable. Pine fence posts are great for picket or prefabricated fences, as long as it's maintained properly. It should be treated with insecticidal preservatives to keep bugs away, and stained with a water repellent to prevent rotting.

Treated Timber Posts

Treated pine fence posts are protected from rot, decay, and issues common in timber products, particularly items inserted into the ground. The pressure treatment eliminates the need for most additional treatments after installation, or during the life span of treated pine posts. The same applies to the majority of other timber items. 

Types of Timber Posts

Round Fence Post

Round fence post offers a classic look, with organic flair, since it resembles the natural shape of a tree. These shapes are commonly used with rail fences, where rails go through the holes in the posts. Round posts are affordable and versatile, fitting well into many different landscaping solutions. 

Half Round Fence Posts

Half-round fence posts are an attractive option that can create an attractive, secure wooden fence in different styles, from rustic to modern. However, while half-round posts are appealing, they do not feature a flat surface to attach boards. In some instances where stability is of the highest priority, these may not be the best solution as it can comprise sturdiness. 

Square Fence Posts

Square timber posts feature a specific aesthetics with a 'finished", sophisticated appeal. Due to the convenient shape, square posts are easy to measure and cut, which makes them cost-effective, too. Square timber posts require some effort to install but pay back with durability.  

Spacing Between Fence Posts

Typically, fence posts are spaced between 1.5 to 2.5 meters apart. Typically, the corner posts would be set first and determine the whole setup. Tighter spacing means added security, which can be useful in areas where the harsh weather is an issue. In the short term, broader spacing decreases investment in material and labour, making an excellent solution for temporary fencing.

Fencing Regulations

Fences have an aesthetic impact on the whole neighbourhood, and for that reason, various rules and regulations define the creative limits for each specific area. It's good to know your rights regarding the type, shape and height of the fence that can be built on a particular location.

A building permit is necessary, and an agreement between neighbours can be an asset. For a fence placed on a common boundary with a neighbour, it's possible to share the bill. The only rule is to find a "reasonably satisfactory" fencing solution.