Dreaming of building a sturdy, rustic fence that stands the test of time? It all starts with properly setting your cedar posts. Whether you want to mark your property, keep pets safe, or boost curb appeal, knowing how to install cedar fence posts is key to a lasting fence.
This article walks you through everything you need—choosing materials, digging post holes, setting the posts, and expert tips for durability—so your project starts strong and lasts for years.
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How to Set Cedar Fence Posts: The Complete Guide
Cedar fence posts are a popular choice for homeowners and professionals alike, thanks to their natural beauty, long-lasting durability, and resistance to insects and rot. If you’re planning to install a cedar fence, setting the posts correctly is the most important step for a sturdy, durable, and visually appealing fence. Let’s break down the process into simple, manageable steps so you can gain confidence and achieve excellent results.
Why Choose Cedar Fence Posts?
Before we dig into the details, it’s helpful to understand what makes cedar so suitable for fence posts:
- Natural Rot Resistance: Cedar contains natural oils and compounds that deter rot and insect damage, making it one of the best woods for outdoor use.
- Attractive Appearance: Cedar ages gracefully, turning a silvery-gray color over time if left untreated, or retaining its warm hue if sealed.
- Sustainable Choice: Cedar is often harvested from managed forests, making it a more eco-friendly option.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to other woods, cedar requires less frequent sealing, staining, or painting.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Cedar Fence Posts
Let’s walk through the steps to install cedar posts that will stand the test of time and the elements.
1. Planning and Measuring
Proper planning saves you time, money, and effort. Be sure to:
- Determine the Layout: Mark the location of each post using stakes and string. If you’re building a standard privacy fence, posts are usually spaced 6-8 feet apart.
- Check Local Codes: Ensure your fence complies with height and boundary regulations.
- Call Utility Companies: Before digging, have professionals mark underground gas, electric, and water lines for safety.
2. Gathering Tools and Materials
You’ll need:
- Cedar fence posts (commonly 4×4, 4×6, or split rail)
- Gravel
- Concrete mix (optional but recommended)
- Measuring tape, string line, stakes
- Shovel or post hole digger
- Level
- Wheelbarrow, hoe or mixing tool (for concrete)
- Saw/log splitter (if trimming posts)
3. Digging Post Holes
Proper post holes provide the foundation your fence will rest on:
- Depth Matters: Dig each hole at least 1/3 the length of the post, or 24-36 inches deep. In cold climates, go below the frost line to prevent heaving.
- Width Matters: Make holes about three times the width of your post—so, for a 4×4 post, dig a 12-inch diameter hole.
- Hole Placement: Ensure holes are in a straight line, using your strings as guides.
4. Prepping the Posts
A little prep can extend the life of your cedar posts:
- Seal the Ends: Even though cedar is naturally rot resistant, treating the bottom end with a wood preservative or sealant will add protection, especially if you’re in a wet climate.
- Trim If Needed: Some prefer to angle the tops of the posts to shed water and prevent pooling.
5. Setting the Posts
This is where technique counts:
- Add Gravel Base:
- Pour 6 inches of gravel into the bottom of each hole.
- Tamp it down firmly. This helps drainage and prevents the post from sitting in water.
- Insert the Post:
- Place the cedar post in the hole, using a level to make sure it’s vertical (plumb).
- Add and Tamp Gravel (Optional for All-Gravel Install):
- For better drainage and easier future replacement, some opt for a gravel-only backfill rather than concrete.
- Add gravel in 6-inch layers, tamping it down each time, until the hole is filled.
- Pour Concrete (Recommended for Maximum Stability):
- Mix concrete according to the bag instructions.
- Pour concrete around the post, leaving 2-3 inches at the top free for soil.
- Slope the top of the concrete slightly away from the post to direct water away.
- Double-check the post alignment with a level.
- Allow concrete to cure for at least 24-48 hours before attaching rails or panels.
6. Aligning and Leveling
As you go:
- Check that every post is at the correct height and alignment with a string line stretched across the tops.
- Use a level on at least two perpendicular sides as you set each post.
- Step back periodically to make sure everything looks straight and evenly spaced.
7. Attaching Rails and Panels
Once the posts are set and the concrete has cured:
- Fasten fence rails, pickets, or panels according to your fence style.
- Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the cedar.
- Use corrosion-resistant fasteners like galvanized or stainless steel, as cedar’s natural tannins can react with regular nails or screws and cause staining.
Benefits of Properly Installed Cedar Fence Posts
Choosing cedar and following these installation steps offers many advantages:
- Long Lifespan: When installed correctly, cedar posts can last decades.
- Less Maintenance: Proper drainage and sealing reduce the need for repairs.
- Attractive Look: Straight, sturdy, well-aligned posts make a fence look professional and polished.
- Added Value: Quality fencing can boost your home’s curb appeal and property value.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Even the best materials can develop problems if the installation isn’t right. Here are some of the most common issues, with tips to avoid them:
Rot at Ground Level
- Problem: Water collects at the base, causing decay.
- Solution: Always set posts on a gravel bed and apply a protective sealant to the base.
Leaning or Shifting Posts
- Problem: Poor backfill or shallow holes allow movement.
- Solution: Dig deep enough, use adequate backfill (gravel or concrete), and tamp well.
Cracked or Warped Posts
- Problem: Poorly cured or untreated wood can split.
- Solution: Use high-quality, kiln-dried or air-dried cedar. Store posts flat and off the ground until use.
Staining Around Fasteners
- Problem: Tannins in cedar react with iron fasteners.
- Solution: Use only galvanized or stainless steel hardware.
Insect Damage
- Problem: Termites or carpenter ants sometimes attack wood fences.
- Solution: Cedar is naturally resistant, but periodically inspect and keep area clear of wood debris.
Cost-Saving Tips for Setting Cedar Fence Posts
A beautiful cedar fence doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider these ideas:
- Buy in Bulk: Retailers like home improvement stores often offer volume discounts.
- Compare Pre-Cut vs. Raw Lumber: Sometimes rough or split rail posts are less expensive than perfectly cut dimensional lumber.
- Use All-Gravel Set: Skipping concrete for gravel-only backfill saves money and makes future replacement easier—but may sacrifice some stability in sandy soils.
- Reuse Excavated Soil: Use clean soil to finish covering the concrete, so the concrete isn’t exposed.
- Seasonal Sales: Many retailers have discounts in late summer or fall as demand slows.
If you’re considering delivery or shipping, check if local or regional lumberyards offer cheaper rates than national chains, especially for bulky orders.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
Follow these tips to get the most from your new cedar fence:
- Stagger Seams: If building with panels or rails, alternate the placement along the posts for added strength.
- Plan for Gates: Posts supporting gates should be larger and set deeper in concrete for stability.
- Don’t Rush Concrete: Give concrete at least 24 hours to set before attaching anything to the posts.
- Seal Optional, but Recommended: While cedar is naturally weather-resistant, a good outdoor sealant helps prolong color and minimize surface checking.
- Maintain Clearance: Keep posts clear of soil buildup, mulch, or plantings to avoid moisture wicking up into the wood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do cedar fence posts last?
Cedar fence posts can last 15-30 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. The key is to keep water from collecting at the base and use rot-resistant hardware.
Is it better to set cedar posts in concrete or gravel?
Both methods work. Concrete provides more stability, especially for tall fences or gates. Gravel offers better drainage and makes replacing a post easier, but may be less sturdy in sandy or loose soils.
Should I treat or seal the bottoms of cedar posts?
Yes, sealing the portion of the post that goes into the ground provides added protection against moisture and decay—even with rot-resistant cedar.
Can I install cedar posts in winter or wet weather?
It’s best to install posts during dry conditions. Wet soil can collapse into the holes, and concrete may not cure properly in freezing temperatures.
What kind of fasteners should I use with cedar fencing?
Always opt for galvanized or stainless steel screws and nails. Regular steel can react with cedar’s natural oils and cause unsightly stains or premature corrosion.
Summary
Cedar fence posts are a natural, durable, and attractive choice for any fence. By planning carefully, digging the right holes, using proper backfill, and aligning posts precisely, you’ll create a fence that’s built to last. Applying wood sealant and using quality hardware can further protect your investment. With these strategies and tips, you’ll have a cedar fence that remains beautiful and sturdy for years to come. Happy building!