Fence Post Support
Fence post supports for strong and durable timber structures
Fence post supports provide a stable connection between wooden posts and the ground, concrete or another suitable base. At Intergard you will find a wide range of post supports, post holders, post anchors and post support brackets for wooden fencing, pergolas, carports, garden structures and other outdoor timber constructions.
Choosing the right post support depends on the size of the wooden post, the surface on which it will be installed and the load the construction must withstand. Our range includes fence post spikes, H post supports, U post supports, bolt-down post bases and adjustable post supports, making it possible to select a suitable fixing method for many different applications.
A post support can also help keep the bottom of a wooden post separated from direct contact with soil or standing water. This reduces prolonged moisture exposure at this vulnerable part of the timber and can contribute to a longer service life when the support is selected and installed correctly.
Which fence post support do I need?
The most suitable wooden post support depends primarily on where the post is being installed. As a general guide:
- Fence post spikes: suitable for driving directly into appropriate ground without creating a concrete foundation.
- H post supports: designed for robust timber structures and generally set into concrete.
- U post supports: available in different versions for securing timber posts in a U-shaped bracket.
- Bolt-down post bases: suitable for fixing posts onto an existing solid base such as concrete.
- Adjustable post supports: useful where adjustment is required during installation.
Always check the dimensions of both the support and the timber post before ordering. The internal dimensions of the bracket should correspond with the post dimensions and the fixing system must be appropriate for the intended structure.
Types of post supports and post anchors
Intergard offers different fixing systems for timber posts. Depending on your project, you can choose from:
- Fence post spikes for installation directly into suitable ground
- H post supports for robust timber structures and concrete foundations
- U post supports for a variety of timber constructions
- Post support bases for mounting wooden posts onto suitable bases
- Adjustable post supports for applications where additional adjustment is useful
- U post support bases for securely mounting timber posts
Benefits of Intergard fence post supports
- Wide choice: numerous models, sizes and fixing methods
- For outdoor timber: suitable for many garden and timber structures
- Different installation methods: options for driving, bolting or setting into concrete
- Corrosion protection: galvanised, hot-dip galvanised or stainless-steel versions depending on the product
- Stable fixing: creates a secure connection between the wooden post and its base
- Reduced ground contact: many designs help keep the timber away from direct soil contact
- Multiple applications: suitable for fences, pergolas, carports and other timber structures
- DIY and professional use: suitable for projects of different sizes
Galvanised and stainless-steel post supports
Outdoor metal fittings are exposed to rain, moisture and changing weather conditions. Corrosion protection is therefore particularly important. Depending on the product, Intergard post supports are available in galvanised steel, hot-dip galvanised steel or stainless steel.
Galvanising applies a protective zinc layer to the steel and helps protect the underlying material against corrosion. For certain products and applications, stainless steel provides an alternative with high corrosion resistance. Always check the individual product specifications to determine the material and finish.
Post supports for wooden fencing, pergolas and garden structures
A wooden post support forms the connection between a timber post and the surface or foundation beneath it. Selecting the correct support is important for the stability, alignment and durability of the finished construction.
Post supports can be used for wooden fence posts, pergolas, carports, garden structures and numerous other outdoor timber projects. The required fixing method varies according to the application: the support may be driven into the ground, bolted onto an existing base or set into concrete.
Fence post spikes for installation in the ground
Fence post spikes provide a practical way to install wooden posts directly into suitable ground. The pointed lower section is driven into the soil, while the upper section holds the wooden post.
This can avoid the need to create an individual concrete footing for every post in suitable applications. The dimensions of the spike should correspond with the dimensions of the timber post. Ground conditions, fence height, wind exposure and the expected load should also be considered before choosing this installation method.
H post supports for robust timber structures
H post supports, also known as H anchors, are commonly used when timber posts require a particularly robust connection to a concrete foundation. The lower section is normally set into concrete and the wooden post is secured between the two vertical steel sections.
H post supports can be suitable for pergolas, carports and other timber structures where the connection between the post and foundation plays an important structural role. The size of the support, dimensions of the timber, foundation and required fixings should always be appropriate for the intended construction and expected loads.
U post supports for wooden posts
A U post support holds the timber between steel sides and is available in several configurations. Intergard offers various versions for different installation methods and timber structures.
View our U post supports or compare them with U post support bases and U post supports for pergolas.
Bolt-down post supports for concrete
Where a suitable solid surface already exists, a bolt-down post support base can be a practical solution. Instead of being driven into the ground or cast into concrete, the support is mechanically anchored to the existing base.
The anchors and fixings used must be suitable for the substrate, support and loads involved. For concrete applications, the condition and dimensions of the concrete foundation should also be considered.
Adjustable post supports
An adjustable post support can make it easier to position and align timber posts accurately. Depending on the model, adjustment can compensate for certain installation differences and help position the timber construction correctly.
Check the adjustment range, post dimensions, fixing method and intended application before selecting an adjustable support.
Why keep wooden posts away from direct ground contact?
Timber positioned directly in or against damp soil can remain wet for extended periods. Persistent moisture is one of the factors that can contribute to deterioration of outdoor timber.
Many post support designs create separation between the timber and the ground or foundation. Combined with suitable timber, correct installation and adequate drainage, this can reduce moisture exposure around the base of the post.
Post supports for wooden fences
Post supports are frequently used when constructing wooden fences. The posts provide the structural support for the fence panels, while the appropriate brackets connect the different components.
For mounting panels and other timber components, Intergard also supplies L brackets and fence fixing brackets.
Post caps for protecting and finishing wooden posts
Once the posts have been installed, the top can be finished with post caps. A post cap provides a decorative finish and helps shield the top surface of a wooden post from direct rainfall.
This is particularly useful because the end grain at the top of an exposed timber post can absorb moisture. A suitable post cap therefore combines a neat finish with additional protection.
How to choose the right fence post support
- Measure the timber post: determine its exact width and depth before ordering a support.
- Identify the surface: establish whether the post will be installed in soil, on concrete or in a new concrete foundation.
- Choose the fixing method: select a drive-in, bolt-down or concrete-in support.
- Consider the structure: a lightweight fence may have different requirements from a pergola or carport.
- Consider external loads: take the height, weight and wind exposure of the construction into account.
- Check corrosion protection: choose a material and finish appropriate for the intended environment.
- Select suitable fixings: bolts, screws and anchors must be compatible with both the support and substrate.
How to install a fence post support
The precise installation method depends on the type of support. As a general guide:
- Mark the exact position of each post.
- Check the spacing and alignment before installation.
- Drive, bolt or concrete the support into position according to its design.
- Use a spirit level to check alignment.
- Position the wooden post in the support.
- Secure the post using suitable bolts or screws.
- Check the post again for level, alignment and stability before installing the remainder of the structure.
For structural applications such as large pergolas and carports, always take the expected loads, foundation requirements and applicable building requirements into account.
Fence post supports for professional and trade customers
Intergard has specialised in importing and supplying garden and outdoor construction products since 1997. Our range of post supports is suitable for private customers as well as landscapers, contractors, garden centres, DIY retailers and other professional customers.
Trade customers requiring post supports by the pallet or full truckload can contact Intergard for larger quantities and trade enquiries through our contact page.
Complete your fencing or timber project
In addition to post supports, Intergard supplies the components required for many outdoor projects. Combine your supports with suitable timber posts, fence panels, brackets and finishing products.
For example, explore our fence panels, including wooden fence panels, or use post caps to finish exposed timber posts.
Frequently asked questions about fence post supports
What type of fence post support do I need?
This depends on the post dimensions, ground or base, fence height and expected loads. Post spikes can be suitable for installation directly into appropriate ground, bolt-down supports for solid existing bases and concrete-in or H supports for applications requiring a robust foundation.
Should wooden fence posts be set directly into the ground?
Not necessarily. A suitable post support can keep the wooden post separated from direct soil contact. This can reduce prolonged exposure to ground moisture and makes replacement of the timber post easier in some installations.
What is an H post support used for?
An H post support provides a robust connection between a wooden post and a concrete foundation. They are commonly used for heavier timber structures such as certain pergolas, carports and other garden constructions.
What is the difference between a post spike and a bolt-down post support?
A post spike is driven into suitable ground. A bolt-down post support is mechanically fixed to an existing solid surface, such as an appropriate concrete foundation.
What size fence post support should I buy?
Measure the cross-section of the wooden post and compare it with the internal dimensions and specifications of the support. Also check that the selected support and fixing method are suitable for the intended load and application.
Can fence post supports be fixed to concrete?
Yes. Post bases designed for bolt-down installation can be fixed to suitable concrete using appropriate anchors. Other support types are designed to be set into fresh concrete instead.
Are galvanised post supports suitable for outdoor use?
Galvanised post supports are designed to provide corrosion protection for outdoor applications. The level of protection and suitability depends on the galvanising method, environment and individual product specification.
Do post supports prevent wooden posts from rotting?
A post support cannot guarantee that timber will never deteriorate. However, supports that separate the timber from direct soil and standing water can reduce moisture exposure around the base of the post, which can contribute to a longer service life.
Does Intergard supply fence post supports to trade customers?
Yes. Intergard supplies both private and professional customers. Trade customers requiring pallet quantities or larger volumes can request further information through the contact page.