How to Install a Vinyl Fence Post

The addition of the type of vinyl fence you will install in your yard will be determined by how you plan to use it. If you want privacy, you will install a 6-foot panel fence, but if you want an accessory to your landscaping, you will install a shorter picket fence, or possibly a post-and-beam style of fence.
With any option of fence design, you will need to install fence posts. Fence post installation is a daunting task, but with a little perseverance and elbow grease, you will find it to be well worth the labor.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves Hydraulic auger Post hole digger Tape measure Stakes String 2-by-4 inch spacer Rubber mallet Level Shovel Garden hose Bags of concrete mix (1 bag for each post) Spray paint

Instructions

1. Measure the area of the fence and draw a layout. Mark each post location.

2. Mark the fence line. Using your hand-drawn diagram, determine where each post should be placed. Mark each location with a spray-painted "X." Use a 2-by-4 inch spacer to ensure accuracy.

3. Dig post holes 2 feet deep using a hydraulic auger. Clean the dirt and rocks out of the hole using a shovel and a post hole digger.

4. Insert the fence post into the hole. Pour an entire bag of dry concrete mix into the hole, surrounding the fence post. Place a level on top of the post to ensure stability.

5. Measure the height. Secure a string line above the posts, marking the desired height of the fence. Attach the string line to the stakes. Adjust the posts to ensure that all are the same height. Use the rubber mallet if needed.

6. Add water to the dry concrete using a water hose. Fill until the water reaches the top of the hole.

Tips & Warnings

• Never attempt to dig before contacting your local utility companies in an effort to locate any buried cables and lines.