Should you use spikes for fence posts?
Why use fence post spikes? The main advantage of metal fence spikes for post support is their ease of installation, using only simple tools with no need for digging or concrete. Even high-quality treated timber posts will decay to some degree over time when sitting in concrete.
How long should a fence post spike be?
The most common sizes of metal spike include: A 600mm (24 inch) spike – this will support fences up to 1.2m (4 feet) high. A 750mm (30 inch) spike – this will support a fence which is 1.8m (6 feet) high. In order to drive the spike into position you will need to use a sledgehammer and/or driving tool.
Do post spikes need concrete?
Fence Post Repair Spike There is no need to remove the existing concrete or to add more concrete when you are using these spikes. Saw off the broken or rotten fence post at ground level using a handsaw or reciprocating saw.
How do you secure a fence post without digging?
A Metal Spike Anchor and a Sledgehammer If you are not wanting to dig to set your fence post, a metal spike anchor might be the easiest option. Instead of digging a hole to put the post in, you take a metal spike anchor like this one (Amazon link) and place it where you would like the hole for your fence post.
Do fence post spikes need concrete?
Concrete-in fence post holders are designed for use where soil conditions are unsuitable for drive-in spikes. The “shoe” should be set into a 450mm (18 inch) cube of concrete so that the base plate sits flush with the surface of the concrete. Don’t forget to check it is level before allowing the concrete to go off!
Are fence post anchors vs concrete?
Concrete provides a strong foundation for wooden fence posts, but can rot them more quickly. Setting them in dirt, with or without gravel or crushed rock depending on your soil type, can help the posts last longer before going rotten. You can also use metal fence post anchors to prolong their life.
How do you put a metal pole in the ground without concrete?
Procedure:
- Find a concrete surface and lightly tamp your digging iron against it.
- Remove the turf and topsoil from the site of the post.
- Dig the hole putting the displaced earth onto the tarp.
- Pour 4 inches of gravel into the hole.
- Place the post in the hole.
- Add another 2 inches of gravel around the base of the post.