I'm planning to install a 4-foot chain link fence around my property in Ontario, where we experience pretty cold winters. Some contractors are recommending driving the steel posts directly into the ground, while I've always thought it was best to cement them in for durability. The contractors are saying that if I use concrete, frost could lift the posts, but I'm skeptical. I'd love to hear your opinions or suggestions on this!
2 Answers
I saw my neighbors have their chain link fence set up recently, and they used a gas-powered post driver to pound the posts in. It was super quick compared to digging holes and mixing concrete. It’s definitely a labor saver! I can’t imagine doing it the old-fashioned way – seems like it would take forever!
You're right to consider frost. If you want to use concrete, you actually have to make sure the posts go below the frost line. For a 4-foot fence, sticking the posts 4 feet deep is probably overdoing it. Hammering them in is a great method for shorter fences like yours, but for something taller—say, 6 feet—it can get a bit trickier. It's all about finding that balance!
Thanks for the info!
What kind of area do you live in, weather-wise?