This might seem like a minor detail, but it can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your fence. There are exceptions, but years of experience tell us trimmed posts are the way to go.
The Standard: Trimmed Fence Posts
The standard practice in fence installation is to trim the posts and install post caps. Here’s why we think this is the best choice:
- It looks great: Trimmed posts with post caps give your fence a polished, finished look. The uniform height and neat caps can enhance the visual appeal of your property.
- Consistency: A fence with trimmed posts is consistent and well-maintained. It aligns with most homeowners’ expectations of a tidy, professional installation.
An Alternative Choice: Leaving Fence Posts High
While trimmed posts are the standard, some people prefer to leave their fence posts high. Here’s why some might opt for this approach:
- Custom Look: High posts can create a unique, custom look. They can be used for hanging lights, or other decorative elements that can enhance your outdoor space.
- Future Flexibility: If you’re considering adding height to your fence in the future, leaving the posts high can provide more options. It allows for easy adjustments without replacing the entire post.
Despite these potential benefits, we don’t recommend leaving the posts high. In our experience, fences with high posts can appear unfinished and out of place, detracting from the overall appearance of your yard. Also, attaching accessories directly to your fence can void installation warranties.
Special Consideration: Gate Braces
There is one exception to our preference for trimmed posts: gate braces. For most vinyl and wood gates, we leave the posts high. In this situation, high posts are a practical necessity.
Higher fence posts are necessary for gate braces.
More questions?
If you have other questions about fence posts we’re happy to answer them. Call 613-736-1122 or hit the chat button on the right during business hours.
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