When it comes to building a wood fence, one of the most important decisions you'll have to make is what type of posts to use. The two most popular options are steel and wood posts. Both have their own unique set of pros and cons, so it's important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.
Wood posts have been the favorite of homeowners and contractors for many years, with steel posts only becoming available for wood fences in the last 20 years. Steel posts in recent years have grown in popularity due to rising lumber costs and their ability to mimic the look of wood posts when installed properly. Steel fence posts are a popular choice because they're strong and durable as well. They're also resistant to rot, insects, and fire, which makes them a great option for outdoor use. They're also relatively easy to install, as they simply need to be driven into the ground with a post driver.
Wood fence posts, on the other hand, are a more traditional choice. They're readily available, affordable, and easy to find in most lumber yards. They are also easy to work with and can be cut and shaped to fit any design. They also blend in with the natural look of the wood fence.
However, wood posts have a major set of downsides as well. They are very susceptible to rot, insects, and fire compared to steel posts, which means they'll need to be treated or painted to protect them from the elements. They also need to be set in concrete to ensure they stand upright and strong for a long time. It is also thought that using treating lumber will prevent rote. This is far from the truth and unfortunately, the treatment that is commonly used in treated posts has gone down in quality due to tightening environmental regulations.
Ultimately, whether you choose steel or wood posts for your wood fence will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your project. Steel posts are a great option if you're looking for something that's strong, durable, and easy to install, while wood posts are a great option if you're looking for something that's more traditional. Our friends over at SWI have a great video explaining why they choose to use postmaster steel posts like us, click here to watch.