When you’re putting up a new fence, securing your fence posts properly is crucial. The strength of your entire fence depends on these posts being firmly fixed in the ground. Ready mix concrete is becoming more popular for this job, and for good reason.
What is Ready-Mix Concrete?
Ready-mix concrete is a pre-prepared mixture of cement, aggregates, and water that’s mixed under controlled conditions and delivered to your site ready to use. At National Mini Mixers, we’ve been supplying high-quality ready-mix concrete to customers across Sheffield and South Yorkshire since 1985.
Why Choose Ready-Mix Concrete for Your Fence Posts?
Ready-mix concrete offers several advantages when installing fence posts:
1. Consistently Strong
Ready-mix concrete is produced in specialised plants where every batch has exactly the right mix. This means your concrete will be the same strength throughout your fence line, with no weak spots that might happen with hand-mixing.
2. Saves Time and Effort
When you use concrete from National Mini Mixers, there’s no need to measure and mix materials yourself. We deliver it ready to pour, so you can complete your fencing project much faster.
3. Perfect for All Types of Posts
Whether you’re using timber fence posts or concrete ones, concrete provides excellent support. Timber fence posts particularly benefit from being set in ready-mix concrete, as it helps prevent rot and extends their lifespan.
Installing Fence Posts with Ready-Mix Concrete
Follow these simple steps:
- Dig a suitable hole – Make it about three times wider than your post and about 2 feet deep for standard 6-foot fence panels.
- Add gravel drainage – Place about 10cm of gravel at the bottom of the hole.
- Position your post – Stand the post in the hole and check it’s perfectly upright with a spirit level.
- Pour the concrete – Add your ready-mix concrete around the post evenly.
- Add post caps – Once set, add post caps to protect timber fence posts from water damage.
Our concrete pumping service makes it easy to reach difficult spots in your garden.
Comparing Options for Setting Fence Posts
| Feature | Ready-Mix Concrete | Hand-Mixed Concrete | Post Mix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | High and consistent | Varies | Good |
| Time needed | Quick – just pour | Slow | Very quick |
| Strength | Excellent | Variable | Good |
| Best for | All fence types | Small projects | Simple fences |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ready-mix concrete take to set for fence posts?
It typically starts to set within 30 minutes, but leave it for 24-48 hours before attaching fence panels.
Are concrete-set posts ideal for all types of fences?
Yes, concrete-set posts are ideal for all fence types, especially when using high-quality ready-mix concrete that provides consistent strength and durability.
How does ready-mix concrete benefit timber fence posts specifically?
Concrete creates a stable, well-drained foundation that helps prevent timber fence posts from rotting at ground level, significantly extending their lifespan.
How much ready-mix concrete do I need per fence post?
For a standard fence post in a 30cm wide, 60cm deep hole, you’ll need approximately 0.05 cubic metres of concrete.
The Smart Choice for Strong Fences
Ready-mix concrete offers an excellent solution for securing fence posts. At National Mini Mixers, we deliver to locations throughout South Yorkshire, and with our same-day delivery service, your concrete will be on-site when you need it.
For professional guidance on your fencing project, check out the NHBC Standards for technical information.
Whether you’re installing new fence panels for your garden or undertaking a commercial fencing project, contact us today to discuss your ready-mix concrete requirements.
Ready to start your fencing project? National Mini Mixers is here to help with all your concrete needs.
