How to install fence posts

Installing posts for composite fencing

The type of foundation underneath the proposed fencing area will determine the post installation needed to support the fence:

Post ground anchor is recommended for solid foundations such as concrete or masonry work.
Fencing post stands can be installed if the fence is under 1m high.
Fence post spikes can be planted in soft foundations to support composite fencing.

Spacing fence slats & posts

Due to natural expansion and contraction of material with changes in temperature, please ensure the following gapping requirements for all Hyperion® Fencing products:

An expansion gap of 4mm should be left between the fence slat and post.
When measuring between post supports you need to allow for the panel cap with 4mm expansion spacing (1774mm) plus the 100mm post – 1874mm spacing in total.

Ground anchor pole (for fences up to 2m)

Hyperion Fencing posts have a round opening so fencing can be installed on a round metal pole of <44mm diameter.

All fence slats are made to a standard 6ft, so when measuring between post supports you need to allow for the panel cap with 4mm expansion spacing (1774mm) plus the 100mm post – 1874mm spacing in total.

Step 1

Mark out the run of the post support centres using the fence section dimensions.

Please note that the posts should always be on your side of the property boundary.

Step 2

Dig a hole with a size based on the ground conditions:

For the size of the hole, we recommend a hole that is 30 x 30cm wide and 60cm deep.
If you find solid objects while digging, such as rocks, use a prying bar to level them out.
If you come across any tree roots, use a small narrow saw to cut them out.
Tamp down the base of the hole until its solid.

Step 3

Once the hole is dug, place the round metal batton in the hole.

This should be at least 60cm below ground.
A metal pole of <44mm diameter should be used.
Using a spirit level, check the post supports are perfectly level and square to the run of the fencing.

Step 4

Secure the pole in the hole:

Double check that the pole is spaced correctly.
Pour concrete into the hole to secure.
Wait for the concrete to set for at least 24 hours.

Step 5

After waiting for the concrete to set, place the fence post onto the metal pole.

Post stands (for fences up to 1m)

This option should only be used for fences with a max height of 1m. Hyperion Fencing post supports need to be fixed to solid foundations such as concrete or masonry work.

Step 1

Mark out the run of the post support centres using the fence section dimensions. Please note that the posts should always be on your side of the property boundary.

Step 2

Place the metal post supports in position:

Using a spirit level, check the post supports are perfectly level and square to the run of the fencing.
With the supports in position, use the 4 pilot holes in the post supports to mark the support fixing holes to be drilled.
With a masonry drill bit, pre-drill the fixing holes to the correct depth (the diameter of the drill bit will depend on the type of rawl plugs you choose to use).
Firmly secure the post stand using the desired fixings, ensure there is no movement in the stand.

Step 3

Cut down the post to the desired height:

Please note, the post should be no higher than 1m when using this installation method.

Step 4

Place the fence post onto the fence post support.

Fence post spikes

For soft and non/concrete foundations you can plant the posts using fence post spikes. All fence slats are made to a standard 6ft, so when measuring between post supports you need to allow for the panel cap with 4mm expansion spacing (1774) plus the 100mm post – 1874mm spacing in total.

Step 1

Mark out the run of the post spike centres using the fence section dimensions above (1896mm). Please note that the posts should always be on your side of the property boundary.

Step 2

Measure the height of the fence post spike collar. Dig a small hole 1-2cm shallower than the height of the post spike collar, and wide enough around that you can tighten it once the post is in place.

Step 3

Place the fence spike into the hole. Place a driving block into the post spike and use a sledgehammer to drive the post spikes into the ground. Using a spirit level ensures all spikes are perfectly level and square to the run of the fencing.

Step 4

Cut down the post to the desired height:

Please note, the average post is 2.4m, but standard fence panels come to 1.8m.
When installing on a flat surface, we recommend trimming the post down to 2m to achieve a flush look.