The Trex Fence Post
The saying goes, “a fence is only as strong as the post that supports it.” A post that has rotted, has started leaning, or has warped and twisted could mean hours of work and possibly hundreds of dollars to replace. Most posts are set in concrete making replacement much more difficult to swap out than rails and pickets.
The wall thickness of a Trex post is four times greater than vinyl.
Consumers are turning to wood-alternative post options that require less maintenance. Most commonly, galvanized steel, vinyl, and composite posts are used. From a durability and strength standpoint a steel or composite post are the best options, but the composite post adds the virtue of a natural, sturdier appearance that is more compatible with the look of a wood fence. It is also an outstanding compliment to other materials, particularly ornamental fencing (see a write-up and pictures on this option).
Trex® leads composite manufacturer in fencing and offers the perfect post for any fence design. Trex® manufactures a self-supporting 5″ x 5″ wood composite fence post. It’s offered in three color options and is produced in 8 ft., 9 ft., and 12 ft. lengths. The 8 and 9 ft. posts are most often used with a 6 ft. tall fence since that is the typical height nationally. The 12 ft. length provides the option of a taller fence or to help with steep transitions from an up-slope section to a lower section. From a cost savings standpoint, a 12 ft. post can be cut in half and used for two sections of fences under 48″. Three post cap options are available: flat top, pyramid, or crown.
Setting a Trex fence post in concrete. The 8′, 9′, and 12′ lengths of the posts provide flexibility before being cut to the determined height.
Trex® fence post advantages:
- Natural resemblance of stained wood
- Resistance to insects, splintering, and decay
- No painting or staining required
- Manufacturer’s product warranty
- No need for reinforcement in most applications
Property owners will love the Trex® 25-year residential and 10-year commercial product warranties. If installed properly, a customer can expect the post to last years without ever needing maintenance. Even if a customer prefers to stick with wood rails and pickets, the Trex® fence posts is an excellent wood-alternative choice for stockade (dog-ear) or custom wood fence designs since it is similar in shape and size.
If you are located in hot humid areas like Florida or Texas, in cold environments with deep frost lines like the Rocky Mountains or Canada, or even in the dry deserts of Arizona and California, Trex® fence composite posts are capable of handling any climate. Next time you need a fence post, think of using Trex® composite posts.
