Setting Fence Posts:

Installing fence posts correctly is the most important first step in the process of building your new fence.  If done incorrectly, all of the money you put into your project may yield an unsightly result, and possibly need to be replaced all together. 

Hole Depth:
We ensure posts are installed at a minimum hole depth of 36″ (3′) when not physically prevented from doing so (excessive rock, tree roots, bedrock), aiming for up to 42″ (3.5′).  This is to prevent frost heave from occurring (the contraction and expansion of water freezing pushing posts out from the ground).

Hole Size:
We use the appropriate sized auger for the size of the fence post being installed to ensure an adequate base of concrete is formed around the post, between 10″-12″ in diameter for 4×4 – 6×6 posts.

Concrete:
We pour concrete to a few inches below grade and backfill the post with surrounding soils.  This acts as both stability while the concrete cures to promote the best set possible, along with providing a layer of porous material to continually wick away moisture from the post.  This aids in preventing rot, promoting the longevity of your post.  We prefer this practice over pouring concrete to grade, as surface concrete can crack (unpleasant aesthetic) and ‘mushroom’, which can lift the post in some cases.

Sonotubes/Gravel:
We recommend the application of these products on a case-by-case, circumstantial basis.  Most soils in Southern Ontario are hearty and create a clean hole to set which does not necessitate the need for a sonotube.  However, in some very sandy soils near bodies of water, or when certain backfills are used, there may be a need to use sonotubes to prevent the hole from caving in prior to setting the post.  Gravel at the base of the hole may be beneficial in areas with poor drainage and swales.  However, this also runs the risk of the gravel trapping water and encouraging post rot.