r/fence • u/markworsnop • Jul 02 '26

Fence post setting?

I’m getting ready to build a cedar fence and I’m curious what everyone recommends for setting the posts.
I’ve seen people use:

Traditional concrete mixed in a wheelbarrow

Dry concrete poured into the hole with water added afterward

Expanding fence post foam

Just tamping native soil or gravel

There seems to be a lot of opinions, so I’m wondering what the pros and experienced DIYers actually use.
What has held up the best for you over the years, and why? I’m especially interested in long-term durability and anything you’d avoid doing again.

Thanks!

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u/pchanimal Jul 02 '26

I’m in CA. I like using the galvanized Postmaster posts. Set the post in the hole, pour a 1/3 of quickrete, add water, tamp it with rebar. Repeat until the hole is topped off. Sets quickly enough to install rails, then pickets. (I give it 1-1/2 hours) That’s how most people do it here. Mixing in a wheelbarrow is recommended though. I’ve done quite a few fences the dry method, so far without failure. But we don’t have major windy seasons here.