What makes the best fence posts

If a small crack or chip appears within the concrete, water can travel deep into the post. If the water in the post then freezes, this can cause the crack to worsen over time eventually exposing the metal reinforcing wires which have the capacity to rust. The rust can be responsible for the integrity of the fencing to become compromised causing fence failure a topic we have covered in detail. The fence panels are not affixed into the posts meaning they can easily be lifted out, leaving your property exposed.

They can also rattle in high winds so over time this constant movement may impact the integrity of the panel. The most destructive material on Earth - concrete is one of the most widely used materials on earth.

A recent article published by The Guardian discusses the enormous impact concrete has on the planet and explores alternative sustainable options. Some homeowners prefer wooden posts because they seamlessly match wooden fencing or fence panels compared to concrete posts.

Though concrete posts have many positives they can appear outdated and lack the finesse a timber post has. Products marked as certified to either FSC or PEFC programmes can prove that the timber has been checked at every stage of processing and come with the reassurance of a complete chain of custody certification.

These programmes are great for implementing sustainable forest management practices around the world, the protection of endangered species, reducing the effects of climate change, and longevity of forests for future generations. Wooden posts do not weigh as much as concrete posts so they are not as difficult to install.

The average concrete fence post weighs circa 40kg. Typically a concrete post for a 1. This weight differential and can also save on transport costs especially if you are travelling from your local fencing yard back home.

Wooden fence posts allow the fence panel to be screwed to the fence posts. This in turn can stop the annoying noise that occurs when panels rattle in the wind. While screwing fence panels into the posts can also make the fence more secure. One of the most common ways items or pets are stolen from a fenced garden is the removal of a fence panel.

This is a simple and reasonably quiet way of entering a property uninvited, if fence panels are sitting in slotted concrete fence posts. Another determinant of lumber durability is the part of the tree from which it was cut. Heartwood comes from the center of the tree and is typically harder with a cleaner appearance, whereas sapwood —wood cut from the outer layers of the tree—contains more knots and is also more susceptible to rot.

So, what kind of care does a wooden fence require? While paint generally offers better protection against the elements than stains or seals, most homeowners prefer the natural beauty of wood grain to a solid coat of paint. Paint can also chip and flake, requiring significant time spent sanding before reapplication. Stains , sealants , and combination products highlight the grain pattern of the wood, though sealants are typically clear while stains lend a hint of color to the wood.

Look for products that are oil- or wax-based and offer UV protection, which protects against fading, as well as mildewcide to deter fungus growth. In general, fences should be re-sealed annually, while stains should be reapplied every two to five years depending on weather conditions in your area. Cleaning a wooden fence will strip off dirt and grime as well as the top layer of dead wood cells that give older fence installations their dull gray color.

The most efficient way to clean a wooden fence is with a pressure washer, but using one incorrectly can do permanent damage to the wood. Of course, you can always hire a professional to handle the job to save yourself the time and hassle. Most companies that offer pressure washing can also take care of your driveway, siding, and other outdoor features in need of spiffing up at the same time, so plan ahead before collecting bids from contractors.

To ensure the longevity of a wood fence, be sure to:. All Best Pick fencing professionals carry the proper licenses and insurance, and they come highly recommended by your neighbors, so you can feel confident hiring a Best Pick contractor. Fire pits are a great addition to any outdoor space. When deciding on design, remember some fire pits can be exponentially cooler than …. Winter home improvement projects are a fantastic way to keep busy while also improving the value of your home.

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There are ways to make it affordable. In this …. Functional, affordable and fashionable. As home improvements go, ceiling fans are a no-brainer. But there are several pragmatic things you can do to lower your stress level. However, it may need replacing 3 or 4 times, and by then, a more expensive option would have been more cost-effective — this goes for timber fence post systems. Although cost-effective in the short term, due to rotting, splitting and warping, opting for timber fence posts often means a high lifetime cost.

While concrete is also cheap to buy, the vulnerability to wear and tear also means a high lifetime cost. Although DuraPost requires a greater upfront cost than concrete and timber fence posts, the long term cost-effectiveness puts all competition in the shade. Ultimately, DuraPost requires a bigger upfront investment, but it's an investment worth making.

Trust us. Having covered installation, aesthetics, durability, sustainability and costs, we have a clear winner. And we think you can agree. Concrete and timber fence posts are simply no match for DuraPost. Want to find out more about DuraPost? Agricultural fencing has used by humans for many years, dating back to the 17th century, where fences were first built using a simple stone structure.

Before this time, cattle and other animals were typically left to roam free. Modern, high-quality fencing can last well over a decade. But for traditional wooden fencing, this is rarely the case. No matter how much time, love and care you put into your fence, endless maintenance issues can become a complete nightmare. Are you are looking to freshen up an old and tired-looking fence? Or do you simply want to change the colour of a newly installed one?

Either way, both paint and stain put up a good case for consideration. See all resources. Looking to get you new fencing project underway? Find a local stockist or trained DuraPost installer today and get started with DuraPost. Find a stockist.