How to Install Fence Post Spikes

Set the fence post spike in the desired position. Tap it into the ground with a hammer, so it will stand upright without assistance.

Place a block of leftover wood, such as a section of 2 x 4 lumber or the cut-off top of a fence post, into the cup at the top of the fence spike. Strike this block with a sledge hammer to drive the spike into the ground. Check the spike after every few blows by placing a carpenter's level alongside the fence spike cup to see if the cup is plumb, or vertically straight. If it slightly misaligned, nudge the spike into position with taps on the side of the cup from the sledge hammer. Continue driving the spike until the bottom of the spike's cup is at ground level.

Set the fence post into the cup of the fence spike.

Tighten the nuts on the one or two bolts set into the side of the spike's cup with a wrench. This will constrict the cup and grip the base of the fence post.

Drill holes into the fence post through the screw holes in the cup, if your particular fence post spike has screw holes (some do not). Drive screws through these holes with a screwdriver to finish securing the post to the spike. Drill bit and wood screw sizes will depend on the model of fence spike.