What steel post size for a hardwood fence?

[dhanz15]

I am undecided whether to choose a 50x50 2.4m or 65x65 2.4m galvanized steel posts to support a 1.8m high hardwood lap and cap fence with 3 hardwood rails. Anyone know if the 50x50mm posts are sufficient to hold the weight of the hardwood pailings and rails, especially during windy and other harsh conditions? Budgetwise, if I can only buy 50x50, is there a cheaper option to strengthen the fence. Thanks.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @dhanz15,

50 x 50mm steel posts would likely support a shorter Pine fence, but I think 65mm would be a much more robust solution for a heavier hardwood fence. The thicker post will be assurance in windy conditions. It's probably best to use an adequate post from the get-go instead of trying to strengthen a fence with under-specified posts.

If budget is of concern, you might consider cheaper materials like Pine instead of hardwood and stain them to achieve a similar effect. 

Here's a helpful step-by-step guide: How to build a fence.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell