What You Need to Know
(Choosing the Right Post Supports for Long-Lasting Fences).
Suppose now you’re planning a new fence in England, one small but crucial detail often gets overlooked: fencing spikes. These clever pieces of hardware, also called post supports or metpost spikes, can make installation easier, stronger, and cheaper than digging out concrete for every post. But which type is right for your project? Let’s break it down.
What Are Fencing Spikes?
Fencing spikes are steel anchors designed to hold timber or metal posts firmly in the ground. You simply drive them in with a sledgehammer, drop the post in, and tighten it up—job done.
Key advantages:
-
No digging, no concrete – faster and cleaner installation.
-
Protects timber posts – keeps wood away from soil moisture, reducing rot.
-
Reusable – easy to remove or adjust if you ever need to move the fence line.
Types of Fencing Spikes in England
1. Bolt-Down Spikes
Best for hard surfaces (e.g., patios, concrete bases). The plate bolts down, and the socket holds the post.
2. Drive-In Spikes
The most popular option for gardens and boundaries. Simply hammer them in—ideal for softer ground.
3. Adjustable Spikes
For uneven terrain where posts need fine adjustments to stay plumb.
Which Size Do You Need?
In England, the standard sizes match common fence posts:
75mm x 75mm – for standard garden fences.
100mm x 100mm – for heavy-duty gates or tall fences.
Heights typically range from 600mm to 750mm, depending on post load.
Materials and Coatings
withstand British weather:
Look for hot-dip galvanised steel (BS EN ISO 1461).
Powder-coated finishes (BS EN 13438) add extra durability and a neater look.
How to Install Fencing Spikes Properly
Mark your post line accurately.
Use a driving tool to hammer spikes in straight—don’t bash the socket itself.
Drop your timber or metal post in and secure with the clamp or bolts.
Where Fencing Spikes Make the Most Sense
Mark your post line accurately.
Use a driving tool to hammer spikes in straight—don’t bash the socket itself.
Drop your timber or metal post in and secure with the clamp or bolts.
British Standards to Keep in Mind
Mark your post line accurately.
Use a driving tool to hammer spikes in straight—don’t bash the socket itself.
Drop your timber or metal post in and secure with the clamp or bolts.
