Fence Post Depth Calculator: How Deep Should My Fence Post Be?
You’ll dig this simple equation to determine fence post depth
Install fence posts in holes dug at least a third of the height of the finished fence.
Take time to plan your fence project to ensure it runs smoothly.
A pro can calculate the correct fence post depth for your project.
A properly installed fence provides privacy while defining your property lines. But if your fence posts aren’t deep enough, the entire fence can become unstable, increasing your chances of needing to replace a fence post within a few years of installation. This guide explains how to calculate the proper fence post depth to ensure your fence is sturdy and will stand the test of time.
How Deep Your Fence Post Should Be
When you’re considering how to install a fence post, you’ll need to know how deep your posts should be. Here’s a quick guide to the proper depths for fence posts.
| Fence Height Above Ground in Feet | Fence Post Depth in Feet | Fence Post Height in Feet |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 | 4 |
| 4 | 1.33 | 5.33 |
| 5 | 1.66 | 6.66 |
| 6 | 2 | 8 |
| 7 | 2.33 | 9.33 |
| 8 | 2.66 | 10.66 |
How to Calculate How Deep Fence Posts Should Be
The depth of your fence posts depends on the height of your fence. Based on how tall you want your fence to be, here’s how to calculate the proper fence post depth.
Fence Post Depth = Fence Height / 3
For example, a 6-foot fence would need a post depth of 2 feet to provide adequate support. Failure to bury the posts deep enough can lead to fence damage, and the cost to repair a fence can make quite a dent in your pocketbook.
How to Measure for Fence Post Depth
Taking the time to plan your fence project can help ensure your project runs smoothly. Here’s how to measure for fence post depth:
Note the desired height of your completed fence
Divide that height by three to get the correct fence post depth
Add the fence height and fence post depth together to determine the fence post size to purchase
For example, if you are installing a 6-foot privacy fence, you’d divide 6 by 3 to get a 2-foot fence post depth. Then, add the fence height and the post depth. For this project, you’ll need 8-foot fence posts. A fence installation pro will include this calculation and the required materials in the total fence installation cost.
Who to Hire to Install a Fence
DIY fence installation is time-consuming and labor-intensive. It involves digging deep holes for fence posts, installing them securely using concrete, and adding the fence panels between each post. Due to the amount of labor required, many people choose to hire a fence contractor rather than tackle this project themselves.
If you’re not sure who to hire to build a fence, start by requesting quotes from fence installation companies. If you have a handyperson you trust to complete other projects around your home, you can also ask whether they have fence-building experience. Ultimately, hiring a pro to build a fence will cost more money but save you time and energy—plus, the fence will be installed securely, preventing future issues from occurring.
Frequently Asked Questions
The depth of the fence posts depends on the height of your fence. If you’re installing a 6-foot fence, then digging 2-foot-deep holes for the fence posts will help ensure a secure installation. However, if you’re installing an 8-foot fence, the posts will need to be deeper than 2 feet to support the structure properly. Also, consider how far apart the fence posts should be to provide adequate support.
Yes, fence posts should be set in concrete to provide the proper support for the fence. If you notice your fence posts leaning, you’ll need to learn how to brace a fence post to fix the problem and prevent further damage from occurring. By bracing a fence post properly, you’ll provide stability and sturdiness to your fence for years to come.
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