Best Fence Posts – Choice, Reviews and Prices

Are you looking for the best fence posts? Read my guide, my reviews and find out the prices of these accessories.

When you decide to create a fence system, it goes without saying that in addition to the network you will also need a group of poles. The basic features needed for a perfect choice? They must first and foremost be very robust and intended to last for a long time, but they must also have a suitable height, a suitable shape and a suitable material. This is due to the fact that, in lands linked to certain landscape constraints, materials such as iron are not accepted and therefore you will have to opt for wood.

This is a rather complex topic, so we should immediately dive into the study of the main features, which we will deepen individually in the selection guide.

Characteristics of fence posts

Let’s start immediately with the most common materials, namely iron and wood. Each of them has structural peculiarities such as to make the pole more or less resistant to bad weather and the vagaries of the climate, such as rain and wind. Iron, which can be coated in plastic or galvanized, is one of the most robust of all, while wood tends to wear out with greater speed, if exposed to climatic agents such as rain, sudden changes in temperature and humidity.

Note: poles and nets, such as T-shaped ones, are also excellent for laying one fake hedge, ideal for protecting privacy in the garden.

Shape chapter: also in this case we have several options at our disposal. The most classic of all are iron posts for T-shaped fences, but there are also other solutions such as C-posts, round, square or rectangular posts, and finally octagonal posts. Why is form important? Because it does not only depend on the aesthetics of the object, but also its ability to resist mechanical stress. Furthermore, depending on the shape, the support bolts that you can use, the locking mechanism for the network and the possible installations will also differ.

Finally, it is important to differentiate the corner posts from the intermediate posts. The former must be used with the reinforcement bolts (i.e. the oblique bar that supports them), while the latter do not have this feature, which you can still add by purchasing the bolt as an accessory.

Best Fence Posts

1. Generic 10 Pieces Plasticized Iron T-Post

In my opinion it is one of the best products ever, also as regards the relationship between quality and price, considering that you will take home a pack of 10 pieces. These are the classic iron T-posts with plasticized coating: this set specifically includes fence posts with measures of 30 x 30 x 3 millimeters, 2.25 meters high and with 3 holes to pass the wires to stretch the net. . They are of Italian manufacture, and you can tell from the tip (the flat part with a 90 degree angle is missing).

• Template: T-pole
• Pieces: 10
• Materials: plastic coated iron
• Measures: 30 x 30 x 3 mm
• Height: 2.25 meters (others available)

Personally I bought more than one bundle of this type, and I used them both for fencing the vegetable garden and for the chicken coop, and I was very satisfied. The structure is quite solid and the quality of the paint of a good level, although they cannot be considered the most robust on the market. For this reason, I do not recommend using them if you have to set up an enclosure to contain large animals, but this defect applies a little to all T-posts with characteristics of this type.

What are the other peculiarities to underline? The set in question is very versatile, and even here I don’t discover hot water, since you can use it both in agricultural, residential or industrial environments. Furthermore, if you have different needs in terms of measurements, remember that in the online product sheet there are also other options, with a height starting from 1 meter up to 2.5 meters.

2. SIP 5 Pieces Iron Plastic Fence Posts

Another round, another run, another set of iron fence posts with green plastic coating, only this time the package includes 5. The characteristics are all in all the same: the product is made in Italy, and there are different heights ( this review is 2.25 meters long, but it starts from 1.25 meters up to 2.5 meters). The measurements are the usual, from 30 x 30 x 3 millimeters, and there are 3 holes for the wires to support the fence.

• Template: T-pole
• Pieces: 5
• Materials: plastic coated iron
• Measures: 30 x 30 x 3 mm
• Height: 2.25 meters (others available)

The workmanship of these poles is of very good quality, and the same goes for the painting of the iron, with the aim of protecting the material from rain and humidity. However, remember that these posts are not very suitable for fences stormed by large animals, because they would not be able to withstand the impact. Consequently, the posts in question are especially ideal for chicken coops, vegetable gardens and gardens, and as a boundary or demarcation of the land.

3. SIP 10 Pieces Galvanized Iron Poles

If you are looking for a valid alternative to green painted iron posts, then I recommend that you take a look at this set of products from SIP once again. Only we are talking about models in galvanized iron, able to withstand both rain and humidity. Any technical data? The poles in question have a height of 2.25 meters, the measurements correspond to 30 x 30 x 3 millimeters and the package includes 10 in total.

• Template: T-pole
• Pieces: 10
• Materials: galvanized iron
• Measures: 30 x 30 x 3 mm
• Height: 2.25 meters (others available)

The posts comply with all European regulations and are excellent for creating a fence that can delimit the ground, or as a fence for small animals such as chickens. The lack of green color obviously makes them less elegant and understated than those with plastic coating, but this is not a problem if you are going to use them in agriculture. Alternatively, you can use them to install an artificial hedge.

4. ITALFROM 10 Pieces Pine Wood Poles

Let’s put aside the iron models and move on to wooden posts for fences, with a set that includes 10 pieces, with a diameter of 6 centimeters and a height of 2.5 meters. These are classic turned pine wood posts, therefore with a very good regularity and precision of the round profile. They are not as robust as chestnut wood posts, but they cost much less and prove to be reliable in the long run.

• Template: round pole
• Pieces: 10
• Materials: turned pine wood
• Diameter: 6 centimeters
• Height: 2.5 meters

Of course, remember that these poles, even if treated with impregnating agent, are less resistant to water and humidity than iron models. To extend their life I recommend, when you buy them, to apply an extra couple of coats of impregnating agent, so that you will certainly improve their resistance. Also, to prevent the bit to sink into the ground from rotting, you should always plant them using a support like this:

If you notice longitudinal cracks, know that this is completely normal, as it is impossible to obtain 100% perfect wooden posts. As far as their use is concerned, they are obviously not very suitable for supporting heavy fences, but they are, for example, ideal for rowing and delimiting the boundary of a land. Finally, they are also useful for setting up a fence in the garden, considering the aesthetic beauty of a material such as wood.

5. NextTradeItalia 5 Pieces Perforated Wooden Poles

These wooden fence posts are very interesting. It is true that they cost more than average, but they offer a robustness of another level and they are perforated models. It means that you will be able to pass the cables to stretch the fence, without having to drive the U-shaped nails into the wood, which among other things tend to come off if stressed too violently.

• Template: round pole
• Pieces: 5
• Materials: turned pine wood
• Diameter: 12 centimeters
• Height: 1.5 meters
• Extra: with through holes

As I told you, the robustness of these pali is remarkable, and it is due to a very large diameter, equal to 12 centimeters. The diameter of the 3 through holes is instead equal to 8.3 cm, while the height of the pieces corresponds to 1.5 meters. The wood used is that of pine, and also in this case they are turned poles and treated with impregnating, which makes them resistant to rain and humidity (but with obvious limits).

The treatment takes place by impregnating in an autoclave (therefore it goes deeper into the wood), and these are FSC-certified poles: in short, the wood comes from forests subject to reforestation, so as to do a favor also to the environment. Secondly, these NextTradeItalia poles can be used both for fences and for the installation of a fence, but you can also use them in vineyards, plantations, or as supports for tomatoes.

6. BooGardi Wooden Posts Square Section

I decided to close my reviews by telling you about these fence posts once again made of wood, but this time with a square section. This is not a set but a single product, so the price is higher than the average, but there is a reason: they are much more robust than the round section wooden posts, consequently they hold up the weight of the fences better. made of metal, and then they are fantastic for fencing a garden.

• Template: square pole
• Pieces: 1
• Materials: turned pine wood
• Diameter: 9 centimeters
• Height: 1.5 meters

The pole I have chosen has a height of 1.5 meters, but in the product sheet there are also other sizes available, such as the 2 meter one for example. Also consider that this BooGardi pole is in autoclave treated pine wood with impregnating agent, therefore it has excellent resistance to atmospheric agents. Secondly, it is 9 centimeters in diameter, is beveled at the sides, and is smooth and well finished.

Iron posts for T-shaped fences

As I told you, this is the most classic choice of all. Often sold in sets, these posts are made of iron and have a plasticized coating, but can also be galvanized. When to prefer the T-post? Despite having limitations, iron T-models are very versatile and suitable for practically anything. For example, you can use them to create a residential fence, for agricultural and even industrial land.

1. Measurements and dimensions

How do you evaluate the purchase of this accessory? By measuring the section, then calculating the first side x the second side x the thickness. There are generally 3 options available to you, and they are the following:

• 30 x 30 x 3.5 cm
• 35 x 35 x 4.0 cm
• 40 x 40 x 4.5 cm

Two other measures also count, namely height and weight. The first obviously depends on the height of the bed base (and I will devote a separate chapter to the choice of height later), while the weight determines the strength. In summary, a heavier pole on the one hand is more complex to manage, but on the other hand it ensures superior resistance, especially when it comes to the mechanical stress caused by impacts from large animals.

2. At what distance should the posts be placed?

The distance between pole and pole is called “center distance”, and it is very important to calculate it correctly. My advice is to position them with a distance of around 2 meters, for a reason that I will clarify immediately: above 2 meters the fence will risk being too weak, while below 2 meters you will have to plant more poles and therefore the fence will cost you more. On the other hand, if you can afford it, it is better to go in defect: a smaller center distance means more poles and therefore a greater robustness of the fence.

3. On what surface should the poles be installed?

There are basically two options: earth and concrete. For a matter of tightness and strength, it is always advisable to plant them in concrete, but if you are good at installation, even the earth can be an excellent solution. A middle ground could be poles with welded plate, which can be easily installed on a low wall, since it will be enough to insert the appropriate anchors for fixing.

4. The structure of the T-posts under the microscope

If it’s not yours very first time, you will already know that the holes located on the internal section of the pole are used to pass the tension wires, then the cables that will then support the net. The tip, on the other hand, represents the top of the pole and must therefore… stay on top: do not make the mistake of planting it on the ground, because that is not its purpose. The area to be planted is the opposite one, equipped with a retractable hook.

• Tip: the tip of the Italian poles always has a diagonal cut on the profile, while the French poles have a square upper section, therefore at 90 degrees. The differences? None: it is a mere aesthetic choice.

• Base with hook: the hook is used simply to increase the grip once it is stuck in the ground, therefore to prevent it from slipping off. Its usefulness is greater when planted in concrete, and decidedly less on earth.

In reality, the recessed hook section was created to favor producers rather than end users. This is because it allows you to hang the poles during the painting phase: this is a perhaps useless curiosity, but interesting to know.

Wooden posts for fences

The wooden post is one of the cheapest choices you can make, and I want to explain all its features to you in this case too. For one thing, it almost always has a round or square profile, and is often made of pine wood from Poland. Bear in mind that wood is usually turned on a lathe, so it has a fairly regular and precise diameter. Compared to metal poles, here the tip is used to plant the pole on the ground, and must therefore not “soar” together with the net.

When to use these posts? Compared to metal ones, wooden poles are usually used for agricultural use, therefore in the vegetable garden or garden, or for fences.

1. Wood and treatment

Wood is a hygroscopic material: it means that it tends to swell and deform in case of exposure to rain and humidity. Of course, fence posts of this type are special, as they are treated with an impregnating agent in an autoclave (clavati), which makes them waterproof and water resistant. However, you should know that wooden fence posts tend to wear out over time, but that’s pretty obvious, considering you will pay for them less than a metal post.

2. Measurements and dimensions

As for the measures, we can find several and these change from company to company. The most common are the following:

• Diameter 5 cm / Height from 150 to 200 cm
• Diameter 6cm / Height from 250cm
• Diameter 8cm / Height from 250cm

I repeat that this table is purely indicative, because on the market you will be able to find an avalanche of wooden poles with different diameters and heights.

3. Installation of the wooden posts

Generally the wooden poles are placed on the ground with plinths made of concrete, in such a way as to guarantee them the right degree of stability and sealing. They have the tip, so you can also plant them bare in the ground, but in that case you will never be able to install a sturdy or heavy fence. Let’s say that you will need it more than anything else as a delimitation of the boundaries of the land, or to place lighter fences, such as plastic ones.

There are other info you should know. The wooden poles are usually planted with special supports, which prevent the material from coming into direct contact with the earth. You can also plant them bare, but in this case it is better to apply a coat of tar, which will prevent the lower part of the pole from rotting, due to the humidity of the soil. Below I leave you the link to the support I used:

4. Network installation

Wooden fences do not always have holes to slide the wires that will stretch the net, for this reason you will need to use U-shaped nails (also known as staples) on the post. In this way you can create a real wire loop, and repeat the operation until you have 3 or 4, so you can pass the tension wire to keep your fence upright.

5. Is the wooden post convenient or not?

True, this is an inexpensive solution, but I advise you not to take it too much for granted. The wooden fence post, in fact, can last even longer than the initial premises, but as long as you treat it with another couple of coats of impregnating agent. The situation is different for the chestnut poles, debarked and much more resistant than the pine ones.

Like choose the height of the fence posts

If you’ve never planted fence posts in your life, determining their height will probably be a bit of a mess. But you don’t have to panic, because there is a rule that will allow you to define on the fly the right size of the poles according to your specific situation. The data you must have available are the following:

• Net height (from 80 cm up to 3 meters)
• Pole height (from 1 meter up to 3 meters)
• Land or wall?

At this point you have to ask yourself: how high must the net that I intend to lay be? Let’s say that your decision is 1.5 meters, and that you have decided to plant the poles in the ground: here you will have to buy a 2 meter pole, thus adding 50 centimeters to the size of the fence you want to make. If, on the other hand, you decide to buy poles with a plate and place them on the wall, they must be 25 centimeters higher than the height of the net (therefore 1.75 cm instead of 2 meters).

Unfortunately on the market, post measurements are fairly standard, so you may not find a height that fits the height of the fence you would like to make. In that case you can do two things: either change your mind and adapt the net to the poles you find, or order custom-made poles, which obviously will cost you more.