No matter what type of fence you’re building, it’s going to require a different types of fence posts. The types you use can depend on the fence configuration you want, the addition of a gate and the terrain the fence is being built upon. The trick is knowing exactly which types of fence posts to use when building your fence. Posts are the backbone of all fences, whether they be vinyl, wood, chain link or ornamental fences. If you’re installing a fence for your Portland-area home or business, you’ll need a variety of fence posts.
Types of Fence Posts for Wood and Ornamental Fences
Not every project or fencing company will use all these types of posts. The variations are most important to recognize if you’re using posts with predrilled holes. For example, vinyl and split rail posts often come ready for assembly.
Line Posts
Line posts have holes on either side. In the case of a split rail style fence, the hole may run all the way through. Line posts connect straight sections of fencing. The number required to complete the fence depends on the number of sections in a straight line. You can use these posts for slight angles, but you may need to make the holes larger.
End Posts
End posts mark the end of the line. These posts have holes on one side only, where a rail will slide in. The fence extends from the side with the predrilled holes.
Corner Posts
Use corner posts to join sections at 90-degree angles. The holes will be drilled to make a corner. As with line posts, these pieces allow for some flexibility. If the angle of the turn is between 45 and 90 degrees, make the holes larger.
Blank Posts
These can be customized for various uses because they don’t have predrilled holes. They are sometimes used to attach gates.
Types of Posts for when Building a Gate
Gate Posts
You can use a blank, end, line or corner post for a gate depending on the configuration of your fence. You’ll need at least two gate posts, one for the hinge and one for the latch. Choose a size that will support the weight of the gate even if it means installing one that’s larger than the rest of the posts.
Hinge Posts
A hinge post is the post from which a gate will swing. These posts need to support both weight and movement. If you have a dual gate, you’ll need two hinge posts.
Latch Posts
This is the post that holds the fastener. Double gates don’t need one of these because the two sides lock to one another. A latch post doesn’t support the weight of a fence. It can be a line, end, corner or blank post.
A Portland, OR fencing company that handles all types of fence posts
Pacific Fence & Wire proudly serves Oregon and Washington. We construct custom commercial, athletic and residential fences. Contact us for information about our services.
