How to Mix a T-Post & a Steel Post Fence

Galvanized posts made of rounded steel tubing are most often used for anchoring chain-link fencing. While these posts come in a range of thicknesses, residential posts are generally 16 to 19 gauge, .065-inch tubing with a 1 3/8- to 2 1/2-inch outer diameter and 6-, 8- or 10-foot length.

T-posts are also steel posts, made from galvanized, billet or rail steel. The posts come in light, regular and heavy-duty weights. T-posts are available in many forms. Studded posts have nubs that keep wire strands from slipping down the post. Punched posts have evenly spaced holes, rather than nubs, to secure wire strands. T-posts are available with or without a spade attached near the bottom. The spade is a flat plate that helps align the post as you drive it in and stabilize it once the post is installed. Typically 5 to 10 feet long, T-posts often come painted, weatherproofed and coated in PVC to prevent rust. These posts are commonly used with permanent wire or wire mesh fencing and in temporary fencing, such as for rotational grazing of livestock.

Instructions

- 1
  Blend the posts within the fence line using a consistent pattern. For example, use a T-post for every other line post or two T-posts between each galvanized post. Actual spacing for either type of post depends on the condition of the ground and the type of fencing you plan to use. However, the maximum spacing for galvanized posts is 10 to 15 feet apart. Using both types of post can reduce the overall cost of your fence. You may sacrifice visual appeal, but where your fencing is hidden from view or used for function rather than form, an attractive fence may be less important.
- 2
  Adapt the hardware to help fit the type of fence material you plan to use to the posts you choose. For example, you can use malleable fence clips or fence ties made for attaching chain-link fence to galvanized posts to hook to fencing to T-posts with a bit of reshaping.
- 3
  Use galvanized posts as terminal posts. Terminal posts are end, corner and gate posts. These are usually larger in diameter than line posts because they bear more weight and are often set in concrete for that reason. Galvanized posts used as terminal posts will anchor stretched mesh and chain-link fencing. T-posts are not made to handle the load of stretched wire. The posts may bend and warp or begin to lean in soft ground.

How to Build a Fence With Stucco Pillars

Temporary Screens to Add to My Wood Fence to Increase Privacy

Fences & Walls