Fencing and Posts

[paulsharvey]

I've got approximately 1000 lf of fence that needs to get installed. The front 220lf plus about 60 ft on other sides is done; and I used all 4" wood posts, 6.5-7 ft long; with 6-7", 8 ft corner posts, line posts at 12 ft OC. For the sides and back, I had planned on doing 6.5 ft tee posts, with some wood posts, maybe every 4th, at 8 ft OC. I've got all the corner posts and posts for 2 minor gates. Question is; with the current price I'm seeing for 6.5 ft Tee posts ($5.39 ea) vs 7 ft 4" wood posts ($6.99 ea); what would you use. Plan is 54" high; running 47" Guacho field fence (might run a single strand of barb one day, or get fancy and run a 1x6 top board). The sides are pretty level for 2/3s of the run, dropping about 6 ft on the last 1/3. The back has a pretty steady side of 4 or 5 ft in 220 lf, if that affects suggestions.

The fence is Primarily to mark property line, but also to keep the dogs in. I know full well, they Can get out still; but they seem to obey fences pretty well.

I like how fast and easy Tee posts are, I can push them in with the loader, as long as one of the kids holds them on the mark, more or less plumb. I would have to hand dig all the wooden posts.

Is there a better(cheaper) source for Tee posts that I'm missing?
.

 

[2manyrocks]

T posts seem indestructible. There are T posts here that have to be 50 years old and still holding fence.

 

[bcp]

Without livestock, space your T-posts farther apart. I use 10' spacing for my property line-dog-fence.

Some dealers may give a discount for a large purchase. Doesn't hurt to ask.

Bruce

 

[bcp]

Treated wood posts last 8-10 years here. I build my H braces using T-posts, too.

Bruce

 

[MAX-24-Dean]

With high tensile wire I spaced my 5" wood line post 25' apart on the property border fence.
Interior fencing for paddocks I space them 30' apart (with high tensile fencing).
Saves a lot of labor and the fences are fine after 12 years of service.

 

[kenmac]

I have cows and T post is what I use. Spaced 8-10' apart. T post should hold your dogs just fine.
Those wooden post will rot away. I have seen some very old T post and none are rotted away

 

[quicksandfarmer]

Treated wood posts last 8-10 years here. I build my H braces using T-posts, too.

Bruce

Funny, here on the coast anything made of steel turns to rust pretty quickly, but I have pressure treated posts that were put in by the previous owner. He died in 1996.

Of course around 20 years ago they took the arsenic out of pressure treated wood and it doesn't last like it used to.

 

[jaxs]

+ 1 for tee posts and wide spacing. Forget any kind of wood top rail,it will just warp and look like crap until it rots and falls off.

 

[two_bit_score]

T-Posts with wood braces at intervals as necessary.

 

[quicksandfarmer]

When considering the choice between tee posts and wood posts for your fence installation, there are a few factors to consider:

1. Cost: Based on the prices you provided, tee posts seem to be more affordable compared to wood posts. If cost is a significant consideration for you, tee posts may be the more economical option.
2. Durability: Wood posts tend to be more durable and long-lasting compared to tee posts. They are less prone to bending or breaking under stress. If you prioritize longevity and sturdiness, wood posts might be a better choice, especially for corners and areas where the terrain is uneven or sloping.
3. Installation: Tee posts are generally easier and quicker to install since they can be driven into the ground using equipment like a loader. On the other hand, wood posts require manual digging and aligning, which can be more time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Considering your specific needs for marking property lines and containing dogs, tee posts could be a viable option, especially for the sides and back where the terrain is relatively level. However, it's important to assess the overall durability and longevity you desire for your fence. If budget allows, using wood posts for corners and areas with more elevation changes can enhance the overall stability and longevity of the fence.

As for finding better or cheaper sources for tee posts, it would be worth exploring different suppliers or checking with local hardware stores, agricultural supply stores, or fencing companies in your area. Prices may vary, so it's worth shopping around to find the best deal.

Ultimately, the choice between tee posts and wood posts depends on your budget, installation convenience, and the level of durability you desire for your fence.

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