Do Vinyl Fence Posts Need Concrete?
As contractors and installers find various methods to install vinyl posts, such as the no-dig method that uses a metal post to finish vinyl fence installations, you may wonder if posts still need concrete to set. This is a topic many installers debate today. After all, the no-dig method is faster and more efficient when installing posts, but proponents of the old-fashioned concrete method state that the no-dig method does not keep posts stable against harsh winds or other extreme weather. While there is no set-in-stone way, the no-dig method is much newer, and as with any new method, it takes some time to get people on board.
The History Of Concrete
Concrete structures got their start in a small empire near Syria and Jordan around 6500 BC. Some say Nabataea traders or Bedouins began using concrete. By 700 BC, these same groups created kilns to develop mortar to construct rubble-wall houses, concrete floors, and waterproof underground cisterns. As you can see, concrete is a timeless human invention still used today.
Many fence installers are adamant about concrete being the only way to install vinyl fence posts. Since some vinyl posts are too large to drive into the ground by themselves, a hole is dug into the ground, and once this is dug, the post is secured with concrete. The top of the concrete should remain below ground level.
No-Dig Versus Concrete Method Of Installing Vinyl Post
Some professionals view no-dig methods as "taking shortcuts" and not doing a complete fence installation. However, this is only sometimes true. Most of the time, the type of soil dictates what method you can use. If you have incredibly rocky or loose and sandy soil, there are better answers than a no-dig fence method. On the other hand, hard clay-like soil is the perfect environment to create a no-dig fence with metal posts and some no-dig donuts. If you are unsure how to start creating a no-dig fence, visit the page, How To Install A Vinyl Fence Without Digging With No-Dig Donuts; this will help you start your no-dig fence journey.
On the other hand, if you have the kind of soil where you cannot install a no-dig vinyl fence, you'll need to set your posts in concrete. First, dig the hole. Depending on where you live, your posts may need to be about 30" deep, depending on the specific manufacturer's instructions and city regulations. After this, mix the concrete and follow the instructions on the bag. After this, you will set your posts. Some installers recommend placing ¾ crushed stone at the bottom. Use a level to ensure your post is level and the same height as the others.
Benefits Of No-Dig And Concrete Vinyl Fence Installation
Some Benefits Of The No-Dig Method Include:
- Saves you money as concrete is expensive
- Offers a more environmentally friendly installation method
- Is much easier to install
- Much faster to complete repairs by taking out metal posts
Benefits Of Concrete Method Of Installation
- Superior stability of vinyl fences
- Method most contractors are familiar with
- Better for environments with tropical storms
- Is the right method for fences that you will keep long-term
