Fence post spikes are an easy solution for quickly installing fence posts. These spikes are specifically designed to save you time and money. No digging or concrete mixing is required; you only need a sledgehammer and some strength. Once in place, the fin-shaped steel spike will provide robust and secure mooring in the ground.
In this installation guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for how to use fence post spikes, covering the various types of spikes available, essential tools, materials, benefits, and maintenance tips.
What are fence post spikes?
These spikes offer full metal jacket protection for your fence post. They are manufactured from powder-coated steel and are designed to extend the life of your fence posts and aid easy installation. Installing fence post spikes is not difficult, as the finned spiked design allows you to place them into the soil easily while creating a solid and secure base for your fence posts.
Use these as a time-saving device, enabling anyone to erect a fence; more than that, the fence will stay in place. Our fencing post spikes and bases mean you can erect your new garden fence efficiently and quickly without the hassle of hard labour or emission emitting and non-biodegradable concrete.
Equipment and tools needed
Here is a list of equipment and tools you will need:
- Adjustable spanner (for adjustable bolts and fixings)
- Drill (this might apply to certain types of spikes)
- Fence post driver
- Measuring tape
- PPE - safety glasses/goggles, and work gloves
- Rake or shovel (for levelling ground)
- Screwdriver (where screws are used for attachment)
- Sledge hammer
- Spirit level
- String line
Materials and supplies needed
Here is a list of materials and supplies you will need:
- Fence post spikes (preferably powder-coated steel)
- Gravel or hardcore (for drainage under spikes)
- Mild soap and water (for cleaning metal spikes)
- Screws or bolts
- Weed membrane (for under the spike area)
Installing fence post spikes – A step-by-step guide
An advantage of using metal fence spikes for post support is the ease of installation. They require only simple tools and do not require excessive manual labour, such as digging, or complicated materials, like concrete, to create a solid base. Here is our step-by-step guide on how to install fence post spikes.
Step 1 - Which type of fence post spike should I use?
We offer post spikes for fencing in various sizes to suit small or large fence posts. These spikes are adjustable and hold the post in place with a combination of internal grips with teeth, screws, or internal bolts and fixings. We recommend fence post spikes with adjustable bolts and fixings because they offer the sturdiest fixing method. Also, this makes the fence post easier to remove if damaged.
Choose from the sizes listed below. You need to choose the spike to match the post's exact size to ensure the fit is correct and, in turn, able to support your fence panels. Here are spike lengths available from Buy Fencing Direct:
Step 2 - Measure and mark each fence post
Once you have marked out your proposed boundary or property line and know where your fence should sit, mark out the position of your fence posts. Setting your fence posts six feet apart is an acceptable measurement (although the ideal spacing can vary depending on the type and height of the fence). To ensure they are equally set, it is helpful to run a line (a piece of string) from post to post for a balanced measurement and to check that the ground or terrain is level enough for easy fence installation.
Once you are happy with the location of your fence posts, take your sledge hammer and fence post driver to drive your fence post spike efficiently into the ground. We have a selection of fence post drivers to choose from on our website.
Step 3 - Each spike must be level and straight
The entire point of using fence post spikes is the fact they make fencing easier and more accessible. However, unless your spike is set in the ground at an even level, the finished boundary fence will not be level and, therefore, not secure.
Using a spirit level that sits on top of the 90% submerged fence post spike is a good idea to ensure it is correctly placed in the ground. This part of the process is probably the most complicated, but as any DIYer knows, solid and professionally installed foundations are the key to any installation, and they apply to everything, including fences, sheds, and other garden buildings.
Step 4 - Installing your fence post spikes
Always start at the corner of your boundary when installing fence post spikes. Using the sledge hammer and fence post driver, drive the first spike into your marked-out location. Install the first wooden fence post into the fence post spike (after you have checked the spike is level, see above).
The spikes are typically secured through a combination of gripping mechanisms and fasteners:
- Bottom – the bottom end of the fence spike has a fin or spiralled shape to anchor securely into the soil
- Top – the spike has a sleeve or metal box that the post fits into the top of the fence post
- Sides – adjustable bolts or screws are provided along the sides of the spike. These are tightened against the fence post to the desired level by a spanner or screwdriver
Remember, the further the fence post spike is into the ground, the harder it will be to realign, so check the level more frequently as you go deeper; otherwise, you could end up having to start again.
Repeat the same process until your fence is fully installed. Then stand back and admire your hard work!
Important advice about soil type
In extremely rocky or uneven areas, consider using concrete to secure the spikes or opt for a different type of post base that accommodates surface irregularities better, such as adjustable post bases that can be anchored with screws or bolts.
What are the advantages?
The advantage of using spikes as opposed to setting your fence post into concrete is that they allow the installer some leeway. While fixing fence posts with concrete is the traditional way to install fence posts and fence panels, this old practice is not the most convenient one for modern methods.
Significant advantages of the use of fence post spikes over concrete bases are as follows:
- Quick and easy to install
- Protects the timber fence post base from rot
- Easier to replace a broken fence post
- Spikes are economical and timesaving
- No concrete mixing, no concrete drying times
- Environmental benefits of not using concrete
- Limited downtime
- Can be used across multiple soil types (including rocky or compacted soil)
Moreover, metal spikes are made from powered steel and are designed to withstand rugged conditions and related wear and tear. They deliver a solid base that will protect your fence posts and, in turn, your fence. What is not to like?
Ongoing maintenance tips
Although we have emphasised how easy the installing fence post spikes is, there is also an ongoing maintenance requirement. Listed below are some essential maintenance tips:
- Check and tighten connections – this can be done during inspections. Check the tightness of bolts and screws and adjust where necessary
- Cleaning regime – keep your spikes clean, particularly around the base area
- Inspect regularly – inspect at least twice per year, once in the spring and autumn. If there is a bad storm an extra inspection would also be worthwhile
- Repairs – make any repairs necessary as you see them. If repairs are bad enough consider replacing the spike, to protect the integrity of the fencing structure
- Rust prevention and removal – prevention is better than cure, so always buy powder-coated or galvanised steel. If rust shows at any time treat it with a rust remover immediately
- Weed and vegetation management – prevent plants and weeds from eroding the soil near to the spike, as this will affect fence spike stability. Use mulch near the base to suppress plant growth locally
Wrapping up our guide on how to use fence post spikes
Building a fence requires some skill and effort, which is why we love fence post spikes. Anything that offers an efficient shortcut is good news. Using them is a speedy yet economical way to build a strong and durable fence in your outdoor space. You can effectively secure your boundaries by choosing the best materials for the job and following our step-by-step guide to installing fence post spikes.
While installing your fence requires some effort and financial outlay, the satisfaction of completing a project that enhances the safety and aesthetics of your property is well worth the expenditure. Ultimately, installing your fence with fence post spikes is a practical solution. Finally, it is worth remembering that the key to stress-free fence installation is preparation, precision and patience!
Contact us
If you are unsure about any part of your project, please do not hesitate to contact our fencing experts for advice. Our range of post spikes and fencing materials are always available online, and you get free home delivery within our vast delivery area. Ideally, for detailed advice, refer to the manufacturer’s guide or instructions.
Do you want to contact us? If so, there is no problem! You can call our friendly UK-based team today at 0333 003 0515. We provide all the guidance and supporting information you need about how to use fence post spikes and fence post drivers. Our buying guides may have some additional information that might help. You can also send emails using our contact form. Our Live chat app also allows you to chat with us by text in real time.