If you are contemplating ways to improve the aesthetic appeal or overall value of your home, exterior fencing is an excellent option. Building a fence is both rewarding and cost-efficient, but getting the posts in, and securing them, is a lot of work. To make the job easier, contact a concrete service to help with pouring the concrete, primarily if the project consists of high posts or if there are several to install. Here are some tips to help you set the posts securely the first time.

3 Steps to Setting Posts in Concrete

1. Set the Line

Place stakes into the ground to mark the corner posts. Run a taut string, or spray a line with temporary paint, between the stakes. Follow the line between the corner posts, and mark where additional ones will stand. The fencing material used dictates the distance between posts. A standard measure is 96 inches from the center of one, to the center of the next. This is often based on standard, untreated wooden posts.

2. Dig the Holes

Digging holes is back-breaking work, so don’t be afraid to invite some friends over to help, or to rent a powered post-hole digger. The width and depth of the hole vary on a per fence basis. It depends on the type of fencing, materials, and the height of the fence. Count on needing to dig one-third to one-quarter the length of the pole into the ground.

3. Set the Posts

Pour a couple of inches of gravel into the hole and pack it in tightly with the bottom end of the post. Measure the length of the post from the top of it to the ground and secure it with boards or some other brace. Repeat this process to set the remaining posts. Pour up to six inches of gravel into each hole, and pour in the concrete and let it set. Check each post with a level and the run line to verify that it’s the right height.

If you’re looking for a reliable concrete service to provide ready-mix, decorative, or precast concrete materials, then turn to the contractors at Childers Concrete Company in High Point, NC. Since 1946, they’ve served the Triad area, and they have grown to be one of the largest ready-mix producers. Their licensed professionals are capable of supplying any amount of concrete for your project.  Visit their website for a full list of their services, or call (336) 841-3111 today for more information.