How to Add Concrete to Fence Post Holes

Fence posts set in concrete can last a lifetime.

Fence posts can be set in dirt, but for a solid installation that won't sag or allow the fence to pull the posts out of plumb, use concrete. The real work in setting fence posts is digging the holes. Once you have the holes dug, take the extra step of setting the posts in concrete so you never have to dig that hole again.

Things You'll Need

• Post hole digger or power auger
• Wheelbarrow
• Gravel
• Cement mix
• Shovel
• Level
• Wood stakes

Instructions

1. Dig holes for each fence post. The hole should be about 1/3 as deep as the post is long, plus a few inches.

2. Put two or three shovels of gravel in each hole prior to adding cement. This will give the posts something solid to rest on while the concrete sets.

3. Mix concrete in the wheelbarrow using the shovel. If using pre-mix follow the manufacturer's instructions. If not, use a ratio of three parts gravel, two parts sand, and one part cement. Mix to a consistency that can be poured, but is not too thin. You want it to be able to help hold up the fence post while it sets.

4. Place the post in the hole on the gravel, and shovel concrete around it. As you put in a few shovels, adjust the post using the level to keep it close to plumb. Continue shoveling in concrete and checking the post until the hole is almost full. After the posts are set, you will fill the last inch or so with dirt.

5. Check the post with the level and adjust until it is perfectly plumb and straight. Use the wood stakes to prop it up, nailing them in place where necessary. Before leaving each post, double check with the level to make sure they are perfect. Leave the stakes in place until the concrete is firmly set.

Tips & Warnings

• Use pre-treated lumber, or paint the bottom third of the post with wood preservative before setting.

• For this task, pre-mixed concrete in bags may be the easiest way to go, but could get expensive for a lot of posts. If you use pre-mixed, have some gravel on hand to put under the posts.

• Make sure the posts are plumb and well propped up before moving on to the next post. These are, after all, "set in stone," and fixing the problem after the concrete sets will be difficult.

References

• Taylor Rental:Setting Fence Posts