Choosing the right type of fence post is just as important as choosing the right panels. The posts are what ultimately hold everything up, so it is worth understanding the differences between timber, concrete and composite options before you make a decision.

Timber posts are often the most affordable and give a natural, traditional look that many people like, especially in cottage or rural style gardens. They are lighter to handle and easier to cut on site, which makes them flexible for awkward boundaries or stepped runs. However, even treated timber posts are more vulnerable to rot at ground level than concrete or composite alternatives. With careful installation and sensible maintenance they can still last many years, but they will not generally match the lifespan of concrete or composite posts.

Concrete posts are extremely strong and highly resistant to rot and insect attack. Once they are properly concreted into the ground, they provide a very solid structure for closeboard or panel fencing. They pair especially well with concrete gravel boards, lifting panels off the ground and protecting the most vulnerable parts of the fence. The main drawbacks are their weight – which can make transport and installation more labour intensive – and the fact that some people prefer the look of timber. That said, when combined with good quality panels, concrete posts often fade into the background visually.

Composite posts are a more modern option. Made from a blend of recycled materials, they offer a cleaner, contemporary look and require very little maintenance. They are designed to resist rot, warping and splitting, and they pair naturally with composite fencing systems. Composite posts are a good choice if you want a modern finish and a long service life without the industrial feel of concrete.

In many gardens around York we use a mixture of these options depending on the style of the fence and the customer’s priorities. During your site survey we will talk you through which post type makes the most sense for your boundary, taking into account appearance, budget, lifespan and how exposed your garden is to the weather.