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You are here > Home > How to Guides > Setting Posts in Concrete

Setting Posts in Concrete




 
 
Step 1: Tools
Step 2: Width of Posthole
Step 3: Depth of Posthole
Step 4: Positioning Posts
Step 5: Securing Posts
   
  Printable Version
 



 
 

Step 1: Tools

You will probably have most of the tools you’ll need for concrete work; hammer, mallet and handsaw, shovels, rakes, wheelbarrow and so on. You’ll need a good builders level that shows both horizontal and vertical levels, a string-line, a straight edge, timber for setting out pegs and an improvised screeding beam, buckets for measuring materials, a large tri-square and timber for boxing if needed.
Tools you may need to hire or borrow are a concrete mixer, finishing tools and maybe a small electric vibrator.
 
 
 
 

Step 2: Width of Posthole

Posts need to be set to withstand the effects of sideways forces toppling or bending them. A good guide for your posthole is that it should be one third of the post height above the ground. A posthole should be at least 300 – 400mm wide - a rotating clothesline needs a hole of at least 450 – 550mm wide.
Please see our project ‘Using Concrete’ for a guide to the correct mix for this type of job.
 
 
 
 

Step 3: Depth of Posthole

Make sure the soil in the bottom of the posthole is well compacted and level. Do a check of the post placed in the hole to ensure your measurement for the posthole depth is correct.
 
 
 
 

Step 4: Positioning Posts

Use props to hold the post in its correct position. This is when you should be using your level to ensure that the post is straight and that it lines up with any other posts it will end up being attached to.
 
 
 
 

Step 5: Securing Posts

When the post is secure, ram concrete into the gap around the post. Make sure you have compacted each lot down before you add more concrete.
 
 
 
  Limitation of Liability
This project has been produced to provide basic information and our experienced staff are available either in-store, or via phone or email, to answer any questions you may have. As this information is generalised Mitre 10 is not responsible for the application of the principles in any particular case, as the contents of this project may need to be modified for the particular site and circumstances. Consumers should always ensure that they comply with any local body bylaws that pertain to any construction project and consult a qualified tradesperson where expert services are required.
 
 
 

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