Wood Fence Posts

Wooden posts are driven into the ground, usually at regular and disciplined distances. The actual fencing is then attached on top of these posts. The wood of the actual fence is either drilled or nailed into the post. When it comes to fences, especially wooden fences, experts usually state the 'simpler the better' principle as simple fence posts are usually more durable and also have better strength. The basic types of wood post fences are round posts and square-shaped posts. The basic logic is that thicker the post is, the better is its strength, durability and resistance against weathering. The weight of the actual fence, that is the wood fence panels must be considered during the installation process. Thicker and heavier fencing requires thicker fence posts as it has better weight-bearing capacity. The type and thickness of the posts thus principally depends upon the wood fence style and panel design.

In the round post category, the usual diameters that are found include, 3", 4",5" and 6". The usual standard height is 6 or 8 feet. In some cases larger wooden posts with a height of 10 or 12 feet are also used. Square posts have dimensions of 4" by 6", 6" by 6" and 6" by 8". The heights are same as the round posts. As per fence design conventions, it is often recommend that the corner posts of the fence should be a bit thicker than the remaining posts, as it adds better strength to the entire fence. It is also better to bury these fence posts a bit deeper into the ground than the normal posts.

Material and Treatment

The material and treatment of the posts also affect the strength, durability and construction of the fence. Southern yellow pine and cedar are the two most common materials of construction. Teak and in some cases a combination of several woods is also used. From the treatment point of view, there are three prominent wood treatments that are provided, these include, Chromated copper arsenate (CCA), MCA (Micro Copper Azole) or ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary). In some cases, seasoning is also provided to the wood posts. The protective treatment is provided as a protection against some weathering elements and insects and general decay elements. The seasoning on the other hand provides better strength to the wood and makes more durable.

Wood Fence Posts Prices

The wooden posts for sale are usually provided as per order, since every customer requires a different number of posts. Installing square wooden posts are substantially costly as compared to the round fence posts. Plus, engraving further shaping and seasoning will cost you more. Here is a table depicting some of the common costs of wooden posts.

Round posts			Square Posts
Height	Diameter	Price	Height	Dimensions	Price
8'	6"	about $12	8'	6" x 6"	about $18
10'	6"	about $22	10'	6" x 6"	about $36
12'	6"	about $27	12'	6" x 6"	about $44

The process of designing and actually building wooden fences is complex and requires some intense planning. If you are planning upon building such a fence then take the help of the sales person at the hardware store while finding the appropriate fence posts.