Should fence posts be 6 or 8 feet apart?

Author: Scarlett Stokes V  |  Last update: Thursday, November 30, 2023

Typical spacing is right around 8 feet between each post however different circumstances may call for different measurements and it is not uncommon to have spacing between posts reach up to 10 feet. Once you have a rough idea of your post layout start by digging your first hole.

Do you space 6 or 8-foot fence posts?

Standard intervals include 6 and 8 feet. You'll choose your spacing if you build a fence out of individual solid wood boards and posts. Don't exceed 8 feet, and avoid spacing less than 5 feet apart to keep costs down.

What is the best distance between fence posts?

So, how far apart should fence posts be? The standard spacing for fence posts is 8 to 25 feet apart, depending on the type of fence. A standard wood fence would require posts 8 feet apart, while a high-tensile wire could span 25 feet.

Can you use 8-foot post for 6-foot fence?

This will help you to avoid interrupting services or potentially putting yourself in danger. Post lengths for fences start at 8 or 10 feet for a 6-foot-tall fence.

Can fence posts be 8 feet apart?

Typical spacing is right around 8 feet between each post however different circumstances may call for different measurements and it is not uncommon to have spacing between posts reach up to 10 feet. Once you have a rough idea of your post layout start by digging your first hole.

Fence Post Spacing Explained (How To Incorporate Proportional, Remainder and Feathered Spacing)

Can fence posts be 8ft apart?

Most fence posts can be spaced 8 to 12 feet apart. While this is a general criteria, it doesn't cover all scenarios. For instance, high tensile fence can have larger spacing, requiring line posts every 15 to 20 feet for field fence styles, and as much as 20-30 feet for high tensile barbed and smooth wire.

Do fence posts need concrete?

A fence is only as strong as its posts. The American Standards for Testing Materials (ASTM) suggests always setting fence posts in cement. One of the most important reasons your fence posts should be set in concrete is to keep them plumb and level over time.

Is an 8 foot privacy fence too high?

If privacy is your main goal, you'll want a fence that is at least 6-feet high to prevent nosy neighbors or curious passers-by from peeking in. To be extra safe, choose a 7- or 8-foot high fence. Before you start building, however, double-check that local regulations allow you to build a fence to this height.

How deep should a post hole be for a 6 foot fence?

The depth of the hole should be 1/3-1/2 the post height above ground (i.e., a 6-foot tall fence would require a hole depth of at least 2 feet). Add about 6 inches of QUIKRETE All-Purpose Gravel into the bottom of the hole.

What is the rule of thumb for fence posts?

Also, before you start to dig, be sure to call your local utilities to come mark any underground wires or pipes. The general rule of thumb when setting a post is that the depth of the post's hole needs to be one-third to one-half of the actual above-ground height of the post.

How many pounds of concrete do I need for a fence post?

For reference, a 40-pound bag of concrete typically yields about 0.3 cubic feet, a 50-pound bag yields 0.37 cubic feet, a 60-pound bag yields 0.45 cubic feet, and an 80-pound bag yields 0.6 feet. This means that in the example above, each post would require about eight 50-pound bags.

Should fence posts be inside or outside?

The 'quick' answer is that the finished, or good side of the fence faces the outside of your property, visible to neighbors and the outside world. That being said, the fence posts (or poles), rails, and other hardware are installed on the inside of the fence line and face you.

How much gap do you leave at the bottom of a fence?

In most applications, a wooden fence should be mounted at least two inches off the ground. Your posts and rot boards (if you want to mount them) should be the only fence components that come into contact with the ground.

What length post do I need for a 6ft fence?

As a rough guide the hole should be a minimum 1/3 the height of the fence, so a 6 foot fence would need an 8 foot post in a 2 foot deep hole.

What is the common fence post size?

The lumber industry defines standard wood post sizes as 4x4 or 6x6. The outside dimensions of the standard 4x4 measure 3-1/2" x 3-1/2", and the outside dimensions of the standard 6x6 measure 5-1/2" x 5-1/2".

What type of fence is best for resale value?

A vinyl fence or an aluminum fence can add to the resale value of a home, while a chain-link fence adds little to no value. Overall, the best way to increase property value with a fence is to choose a design that is both functional and attractive.

What fence height is the best for deterring intruders?

8 feet with 3 strands of barbed wire will deter determined intruders and is generally considered as the standard height and configuration. Critical areas should have at least 8-foot fence around them.

Why can you only have a 6 foot fence?

While the most permissive areas will let you have a fence that's any height you want, many people find very tall ones to be off-putting. Therefore, zoning regulations in many places set a maximum height for fencing. Six feet is a common limit, though eight feet may be allowed in some areas.

Do you need gravel under fence post?

To help slow such deterioration, add pea gravel or crushed stone to the bottom of the posthole. Once you have added gravel to a depth of three inches or so, use a piece of scrap lumber to tamp down the layer. Next, pour an additional three inches of gravel into the hole, tamping down a second time.

How many bags of quikrete do I need for a fence post?

Most fence posts require anywhere from one to 10 bags of concrete. Actual concrete amounts vary depending on post hole diameter and depth. Account for frost lines and gravel when doing calculations.

Is quikrete good for fence posts?

Fast-setting concrete is ideal for setting posts because there's no mixing—you simply pour the dry concrete from the bag right into the hole, then add water.

Should fence rails be level or follow the ground?

First, the fence itself is likely to be weaker if it's not built on level ground. Second, an uneven fence is more likely to fall over, which could cause serious injury to anyone who happens to be nearby.

Does an 8 foot post for chain link fence need to be cemented?

You can install a chain link fence without using concrete, but it is not recommended. Anchoring each fence post in concrete is the best way to ensure your fence will stand straight and tall for many years.

How many rails do you need for an 8 foot fence?

Number of Rails

It is recommended that you use a minimum of 2 horizontal rails between posts for all fences less than 5' high, 3 rails for fences 5' to 7' high, and 4 rails for 8' high fences.

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