Introduction
👉🏻 Grab a post sleeve here: bit.ly/5x5vinylpostsleeve (Galvanized) & bit.ly/5x5postsleevestainless (Stainless)
Today I'll show you just how easy it is to install a removable vinyl fence post into your fence line! You can use this to make a section of your vinyl fence easily removable, or to build a double-drive vinyl gate.
Check us out online! 👉🏻 www.swifence.com
Content
- So sometimes in a vinyl fence, maybe you want to remove a post.
You can use this application for a removable post in a fence line, giving you a wider area to get something through into your yard, or for a removable post in a double drive gate system, like we have done.
So.
First things, first., What, I'm gonna do, I'm gonna make sure that my sleeve fits my post.
And.
It does.
Note that I have a bolt in place, because that bolt is what's gonna hold my post.
Measuring from the bolt up is where you would measure to find your initial height of your post.
So.
What I'm gonna do, is I'm gonna use a really strong tape.
I like this gorilla tape, myself.
And, I'm gonna tape right on the seam of the sleeve in the post.
(tape, tearing), So I'm gonna put one piece there, and one piece here., (tape, tearing) This is just to marry them together temporarily to make them one.
'cause I want to be able to set this as a system, but, I know, you've seen the other videos.
I know, I know, you've watched them.
So.
When are you gonna talk about stabbing? We're, not gonna stab this post.
If, you stab, this post, you're gonna have a sleeve and a post that is not removable.
And you don't want that.
You want to be able to make sure that the sleeve stays in the ground.
And it is permanent.
But the post comes out of the sleeve.
So.
Hopefully we have enough tape.
So.
You can tape your bottom.
Off., (tape, tearing), No, no., It's, not ideal, but I've got some electrical tape.
I, ran outta, my gorilla tape.
And instead of going to the store, I resorted to whatever else I had in my truck.
So we can continue the shoot.
You can also not tape your bottom.
If you want.
What you're, gonna do if you don't tape, your bottom, you're, gonna set it in your hole, you're gonna pour your concrete around that sleeve.
And then a little bit later, on, you're gonna lift that sleeve, up.
I'm, still gonna do kind of that same thing.
Though.
I'm, just taking out the chance of that concrete following into the cavity.
The reason that I want that to be hollow is so that that way, being in Wyoming, when the water goes into that sleeve, if it ices over, and I'm, wanting to remove that post in the wintertime, that post might be frozen into that sleeve.
So therefore, I want my water to be able to drain to the ground.
So I want a solid cavity through that sleeve, through the concrete, into the ground, for water.
Drainage.
Now, I know, what you're thinking, "But, you taped the bottom, so it's gonna retain water." No, because as soon as we set that sleeve, what we would do is we would come back and punch that tape.
Out.
When.
We go to remove that post.
We would take something like a stake, and punch that tape out to allow water drainage down to the soil.
If.
You wanted to.
And if you're really worried about it, you could also throw gravel down there for water drainage, as well.
Totally, your discretion, up to you.
We, don't.
For.
This process, we're gonna use three bags of Quikrete.
(mix, pouring), Even, though it's a sleeve, we're still treating it as the bottom of the post.
So.
We still have to make sure that all that concrete goes in there.
And we still have to have to make sure that we're digging our hole to depth.
All that stuff is still just as important.
(rock music) Traditionally.
What we do as we would pour the concrete in the hole, stab, the post.
I'm saying that so many times, because we don't want you to do that.
You, wanna make sure and put the post with the sleeve in first, and pour it around it.
I'm gonna sight my post in (post pounding), where it should be.
Take.
Some concrete, (concrete mix pouring in), pour around it., (concrete mix pouring in) Okay.
If you're worried about rust, like they are in Florida, over in Florida, they're using stainless steel.
So.
There is a stainless steel, option.
(concrete mix pouring in), Before, I, top.
It off, I'm gonna make sure that I'm still level.
Having a little bit in there, (concrete mix pouring in), just helps just to keep this in line.
So now, it's holding it.
So I can gently drop the concrete in there.
For.
Anybody that doesn't know, since we are setting a five-by-five post.
You do want about a 12 inch diameter hole.
And our hole was dug to 32 inches.
Deep., (rock, music), (shovel, chopping, concrete mix), One of the main things you want to do is you don't want to pour your concrete above your sleeve.
That's, a no-no.
The sleeve should protrude past the top of the concrete.
Ideally.
What we want, not make a mess, with.
It's, getting everywhere.
You want the sleeve to be flush with the ground, or maybe just a touch above.
So that way, you're trying to control the water that goes in there.
And.
You don't want your concrete to be above your sleeve to the point where you can't get your vinyl post, out.
So.
What we would do now, is we'd let it sit just a little bit, and set the rest of our fence line,? Or maybe you just let it sit for a little bit, and have tea and a biscuit.
After that.
So you know, your concrete's, not gonna fall, you would try to lift it up just a little bit to the point where our sleeve is just even with ground, or a little bit above.
So.
When we do that, we wanna make sure that the concrete's at least stiff enough to the point where it's not grabbing the sleeve, but we're able to keep that cavity there for water.
Drainage.
Before.
We do anything else, we're, gonna go ahead and check to make sure that we're still level.
We're gonna top it off with dirt just to make sure that our sleeve height is good., (shovel, chopping, dirt), It's, like pretty dang near, like right at it.
At that point in time, once your sleeve is set.
You can go ahead and figure out how tall your post needs to be to match your fence, line, measure and set your post, sleeve height accordingly to make sure that your post is gonna be tall enough to match your fence.
I'm gonna pull that, those two pieces of tape, off, and that's gonna give us a removable, vinyl post., And I can feel that there's a cavity down there.
Underneath my tape.
So after that hardened, I would punch that tape, out.
So that way I'm, not retaining water, and I don't have a chance of freezing my post inside my sleeve, and I have my water, drainage., Make, sure and clean the concrete off your post.
If you got any on it.
After testing everything out to make sure that your post goes in, to make sure it's in line, to make sure it's tall enough, once all that is done, and all your dirt's in place.
You have one.
You have one.
If you're building vinyl fence, make sure and check out this video right, here, five essential things to know before you build your vinyl fence.
Or, maybe check out this video right over here on how to build a vinyl privacy gate with one of our vinyl privacy gate, kits., As, Dan with S-W-I.
We are Wyoming's fence, company., We.
Hope you have a good dang, day., (whoosh).
FAQs
Can you install vinyl fence post without concrete? ›
Vinyl posts are too large to be driven directly into the ground anyway, there's no practical way to do it without destroying the post. A hole has to be dug, and once it's dug the best way to secure the works is with concrete.
Do you fill a vinyl fence post with concrete? ›Best Vinyl recommends using concrete to install fence posts for a number of reasons. One of the biggest reasons is the consistency of the vinyl fence installation. When installing the vinyl fence posts into the ground, it is important to know that soil is never uniform and will change over time.
How many bags of cement do I need for a vinyl fence post? ›Most fence posts require anywhere from one to 10 bags of concrete. Actual concrete amounts vary depending on post hole diameter and depth. Account for frost lines and gravel when doing calculations.
Do you need gravel under vinyl fence post? ›Although depth requirements vary depending on soil conditions and climate, you generally want a third of the post length to be in the ground. You also need to account for an additional 6 inches of gravel, which provides a base that will help drain water away from the post.
How do you secure a post without concrete? ›- Determine where you want your post to go. ...
- Once the hole is dug, dump four inches of gravel into the hole. ...
- Once you have placed the post, add another two inches on top of the four inches of gravel that you have already placed. ...
- Next add a few inches of topsoil.
Do Vinyl Fence Posts Need Wood Inserts? If you're installing a new post, wood inserts help provide more stability to your post, and therefore entire fence system. However without proper drainage putting a wooden post into concrete, inside your vinyl post can cause problems.
How deep should the post be in a vinyl fence? ›Post holes should be 30'' deep and between 9'' and 12'' in diameter (the required diameter will be noted in the instructions included with the fence).
How do you secure a vinyl fence post? ›- Step 1: Fill Around the Posts With Concrete. After the gravel is added, fill the hole with concrete. ...
- Step 2: Tap the Posts in Place. ...
- Step 3: Install Main Posts. ...
- Step 4: Make Sure the Posts Are Plumb. ...
- Step 5: Wait for the Concrete to Set.
The depth of the hole should be 1/3-1/2 the post height above ground (i.e., a 6-foot tall fence would require a hole depth of at least 2 feet).
How many 50lb bags of concrete do I need for a fence post? ›For reference, a 40-pound bag of concrete typically yields about 0.3 cubic feet, a 50-pound bag yields 0.37 cubic feet, a 60-pound bag yields 0.45 cubic feet, and an 80-pound bag yields 0.6 feet. This means that in the example above, each post would require about eight 50-pound bags.
What cement to use for vinyl fence post? ›
Outdoor Essentials PVC cement glue is specifically designed for vinyl fencing. it's perfect for attaching vinyl post caps to vinyl fence posts. The exclusive rapid-set formula creates a strong, long lasting bond. Available in 1.5 oz.
Should a fence be level or follow the ground? ›When it comes to executing a proper fence installation, a perfectly level ground is ideal. However, many people's yards have some sort of slope or hill. Thankfully, you don't have to level your entire property just to gain a boost in security and privacy.
What do you put under vinyl fence? ›A curb or solid filler is probably the most effective way to fill a gap at the bottom of your vinyl fence. It is often done using concrete, which provides a solid structural base for the fence.
Can you install a vinyl fence without digging? ›The good news is that you can actually install a fence without all this hassle. Do-it-yourself homeowners across the country are now installing sturdy vinyl fences without digging holes, making a mess of the yard or pouring concrete.
Can you set a post with just dirt? ›There are a few options for materials to set your fence posts if you aren't using cement. These include dirt, gravel, sand, and crushed rock. Dirt: Filling the hole with dirt and compacting it will help to support the fence post.
Should a vinyl fence touch the ground? ›So, when they switch to vinyl fencing, our customers often wonder whether they will have problems with their vinyl fencing if it touches the ground. It's best to keep your vinyl fence panels level with the ground as opposed to planting them since they can get moldy from being in such close proximity to the ground.
How long do vinyl fence posts last? ›That depends on location choice, installation quality, and upkeep (which is super easy). It will outlast its wooden counterpart by many years or even decades. A perfectly maintained, top-quality wooden fence, will last around 14 years, while a vinyl one will last 20-30 years!
Are vinyl fence posts strong? ›Durability You Can Count On. No matter what they're facing, vinyl fences stand strong. They won't rot, blister, or allow the growth of fungus, and you won't have to worry about them splitting or cracking due to weather or old age. Plus, vinyl fences are resistant to fire and impenetrable to pests.
What is the easiest fence to install yourself? ›What is the Easiest Fence to Install Yourself? Did you know: with the right tools and planning, vinyl fences are among the easiest fences to install yourself! This is due to the fact that you install this material with essentially a no-dig design rather than needing to dig posts bases and fill them with cement.
What is the rule of thumb for fence post depth? ›The general rule of thumb when setting a post is that the depth of the post's hole needs to be one-third to one-half of the actual above-ground height of the post. So, a six-foot-high finished post ideally needs to be buried three feet into the ground.
How do you fix a leaning vinyl fence post? ›
If the leaning angle is not as serious, you can do a quick fix that can save your fence. Dig around the old post, straighten it, then backfill with compacted rock or even concrete for more stability.
Do vinyl fence posts need metal inserts? ›Usually, vinyl fences require any sort of reinforcing insert in the posts. One thing to remember is, even though vinyl typically bodes well with bad weather, wind can sometimes be an issue.
What happens if fence posts not deep enough? ›If you do not get the post holes deep enough there is a greater potential that your fence can be blown over. Before digging your fence post holes, call 8-1-1, the national Call-Before-You-Dig hotline, to start the process of having all underground utility and communication lines marked on your property.
Should fence posts be set in concrete? ›It doesn't matter if it is a do-it-yourself (DIY) project or a professional installation, wood fence or vinyl fence, your fence posts should be set in concrete. Without a properly set concrete footer, your fence posts will begin to sag until they eventually fail.
What is the maximum distance between two fence posts? ›For most residential fences 8′ between posts is the maximum. Commercial fences (industrial chain link, for example) typically can handle up to 10′ spacing because of their stronger frames.
Can you put dry concrete in a post hole? ›Fast-setting concrete is ideal for setting posts because there's no mixing—you simply pour the dry concrete from the bag right into the hole, then add water.
How many bags of quikrete do I need for a 4x4 fence post? ›Mix two 50lb bags of concrete with water in a mixing tub or 5-gallon bucket. Add concrete into the hole and around the 4” x 4”. Depending on your climate, let concrete set up for 24 - 48 hours.
Is quikrete good for fence posts? ›Overall, the 50lb Quikrete Fast Setting Concrete Mix is what I found works best for installing a fence post. It's easy to work with, sets fast, and is very strong.
Can you use foam instead of concrete for fence post? ›Expanding foam is generally considered more eco-friendly than concrete because it produces less waste. It also sets and cures quickly (in less than 15 minutes) and can be applied in cold temperatures. Expanding foam for fence posts is also lightweight and a smart choice for a DIY since it doesn't require mixing.
Is there a difference between concrete and cement? ›Bottom line: Cement is a powdered ingredient used to make concrete. Concrete is the material used to make sidewalks, driveways and buildings.
Who should have the bad side of the fence? ›
In most fence setups, there is a “good” side and a “bad” side. The side of the fence with flat pickets is considered the good side, and the one with the support beams is considered the bad side.
Who should have the good side of the fence? ›Face the finished side of the fence toward your neighbor
The finished side should face toward your neighbor. Not only is this more polite, but it's the standard. Your property will look a lot nicer with the “good” side facing the outside world. Otherwise, your fence will look like it was installed backward.
Leaving a space between the bottom of your fence and the ground allows for landscaping changes and/or growth, prevents moisture absorption from occurring, and it also makes it easier to do yard maintenance and clean up along the base of the fence.
What can I use to fill the gap under a vinyl fence gate? ›There are two methods you can try in order to fix the gap. You can glue a rubber door sweep underneath the gate, or you can place a speedbump underneath the gate in the gap. You can also create your own speedbump by using concrete.
What is the difference between vinyl and PVC fence? ›PVC fences are extremely sought after because they are durable, require very little maintenance, and can even imitate the look of real wood. Although you will often see the terms used interchangeably or grouped together, is there a difference between PVC and vinyl? The short answer is: no, there is no difference.
Should you fill vinyl fence posts with concrete? ›Best Vinyl recommends using concrete to install fence posts for a number of reasons. One of the biggest reasons is the consistency of the vinyl fence installation. When installing the vinyl fence posts into the ground, it is important to know that soil is never uniform and will change over time.
What is a no dig fence post? ›What is a No Dig Fence? Unlike traditional fences, the innovative design of a no dig fence doesn't require augering and cementing of posts. Instead, the fence is secured by merely driving steel spikes into the ground.
Is concrete necessary for fence posts? ›It doesn't matter if it is a do-it-yourself (DIY) project or a professional installation, wood fence or vinyl fence, your fence posts should be set in concrete. Without a properly set concrete footer, your fence posts will begin to sag until they eventually fail.
Do vinyl fences go to the ground? ›Even though vinyl fencing is stronger and more durable than a wooden fence, it still needs to be set deep in the ground to avoid leaning later on.
What can I use instead of concrete for fence posts? ›There are a few options for materials to set your fence posts if you aren't using cement. These include dirt, gravel, sand, and crushed rock. Dirt: Filling the hole with dirt and compacting it will help to support the fence post.
How deep should a vinyl fence post hole be? ›
It's time to start digging your holes. Post are designed to be placed into the ground approximately 24”. It is recommended to dig 26-28” deep to allow for concrete to be placed at the bottom of the hole.
How deep to dig a hole for vinyl fence post? ›Post holes should be 30'' deep and between 9'' and 12'' in diameter (the required diameter will be noted in the instructions included with the fence).
What kind of cement do you use for vinyl fence posts? ›To install vinyl fence posts, you will only need to choose between two types of concrete premix: High-Strength or Fast-Setting. Both options are affordably priced and have a blend of cement, sand and aggregate that will work perfectly for your vinyl fence.
Can dogs dig under a vinyl fence? ›Dogs don't only escape over the tops of fences. If you want to make sure your dog is truly secure, or you already know that your dog is prone to digging, you'll have to put some below-ground defenses in place when installing your new vinyl fence. There's no one way to keep a dog from digging under a fence.
Should my vinyl fence touch the ground? ›So, when they switch to vinyl fencing, our customers often wonder whether they will have problems with their vinyl fencing if it touches the ground. It's best to keep your vinyl fence panels level with the ground as opposed to planting them since they can get moldy from being in such close proximity to the ground.
What is the lifespan of a vinyl fence? ›Vinyl Fencing Wins for Longevity!
It will outlast its wooden counterpart by many years or even decades. A perfectly maintained, top-quality wooden fence, will last around 14 years, while a vinyl one will last 20-30 years!
Unlike cracks and holes, gaps beneath vinyl fences usually have nothing to do with the quality of the structure itself. Rather, they are caused by the land below, which could be sloped downward, creating a large hollow space between the ground and the bottom fo the fence, or the land below could be eroding.