THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FENCE POSTS: TYPES, FEATURES, BENEFITS & USES
, by Harry Sandhu, 5 min reading time
Fence posts are the backbone of any fence, ensuring structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and longevity. Choosing the right type of post is crucial for both residential and commercial fencing projects. In this guide, we'll explore the most popular fence post materials and types- including retaining wall posts- so you can make an informed decision for your project.
🧱 Retaining wall Posts: H-Channels, C-Channels & Corner-Channels
Retaining Wall Posts are essential for supporting sleeper walls that hold back soil or level sloped areas.
Features:
- Steel Construction with hot-dip galvanizing for rust protection
- Precision-rolled channels:
1. H-Channels for joining two sleepers in a straight line
2. C-Channels used at the end of the walls
3. Corner Channels designed for 90° turns or angled transitions
Benefits:
- Extremely strong and long-lasting
- Easy to install sleepers (timber or concrete)
- Minimal maintenance over time
Uses:
- Retaining walls for gardens and slopes
- Raised garden beds
- Structural landscape edging
🌳 Timber Hardwood Posts: Mixed Hardwood & Blue Gum
Hardwood Timber posts are prized for their strength, durability and, natural appearance
Types:
- Mixed Hardwood- A cost-effective combination of native hardwoods
- Blue Gum: Known for high-density, hardness, and termite resistance
Features:
- Natural, renewable timber
- Solid, dense, and heavy-duty
- Can be treated or oiled for longevity
Benefits:
- Strong enough for structural applications
- Aesthetic natural grain
- Eco-friendly, especially when sustainably sourced
Uses:
- Boundary Fence
- Farm and rural fence
- Feature fences and gate posts
🏗️ Square Steel Posts: 50x50, 65x65, 75x75 & 100x100
Steel fence posts are a robust option for a variety of fencing styles and environments.
Sizes:
- 50x50mm: Great for light to moderate use
- 65x65mm: A mid-weight, balanced option
- 75x75mm & 100x100mm: Ideal for gates and heavy-duty installations
Features:
- Hot-dip galvanized or powder-coated finishes
- Square profile or modern aesthetics
- High load-bearing capability
Benefits:
- Low maintenance and long-lasting
- Resistant to rust, termites, and rot
- Easy to install and align
Uses:
- Slat and screen fencing
- Security and pool fencing
- Posts for gates and retaining walls
🌴 Merbau Posts: 90x90, 115x115, 140x140
Merbau is a premium hardwood that combines strength with natural beauty.
Sizes:
- 90x90mm: Common for fences and screens
- 115x115mm & 140x140mm: Used for structural and decorative purposes
Features:
- Rich reddish-brown tone
- Contains natural oils that resist decay
- Dense and durable even in harsh weather
Benefits:
- Adds a luxurious finish to outdoor spaces
- Resistant to termites and fungal decay
- Dense and durable even in harsh weather
Uses:
- Decorative and architectural fencing
- Pergola and deck posts
- Premium gate and entryway posts
🌲 Cypress Posts: 115x115, 90x90, 125x75, 100x100
Cypress pine is a naturally durable Australian softwood with excellent performance outdoors.
Sizes:
- 90x90mm & 100x100mm: General-purpose posts
-
115x115mm: Ideal for rail supports and intermediate posts
- 125x75mm: Used for rail supports and intermediate posts
Features:
- Naturally termite-resistant
- Light golden hue with visible grain
- Pleasant natural aroma
Benefits:
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
- Easy to work with using standard tools
- No need for chemical treatment
Uses:
- Boundary and garden fencing
- Structural landscaping
- Retaining sleeper walls (light-duty)
🔵 Round Posts: CCA H4 & Treated Pine Tapered Round Post Poles
Round timber posts are a rural fencing staple, offering functionality and affordability.
Features:
- H4 Treatment protects against rot and insects
- Uniform round shape with natural taper
- Economical and widely available
Benefits:
- Long lifespan in outdoor and in-ground applications
- Easy to install using post drivers
- Ideal for long fence lines on farms and properties
Uses:
- Agricultural fencing (wire, mesh, or rail)
- Tree and Plant support
- Vineyard trellises and livestock enclosures
📌 Summary: Choosing the Right Post for Your Fence
Here's a quick reference table to help match your needs with the ideal post type:
| Post Type | Material | Best Used For | Strengths |
| Retaining Wall Posts | Steel Channels | Sleeper walls, raised beds | High Strength, Long lifespan |
| Timber Hardwood | Mixed, Blue Gum | Boundary & feature fences | Strong, classic look |
| Sqaure Steel Posts | Galvanized Steel | Gates, Slat fencing, Pool fencing | Durable, modern style |
| Merbau | Hardwood | Premium fencing, decks, pergolas | High-end appearance, weather resistant |
| Cypress | Softwood | Eco-conscious fencing, landscaping | Termite resistance, no chemicals |
| Round Treated Pine | Treated Pine | Rural fencing, farms, trellising | Affordable, easy to install |
🏡 Final Thoughts
The right fence post not only supports your fence but also enhances its appearance and longevity. Whether you're after a rustic farm aesthetic, modern feel structure, or luxury hardwood finish, there's a post type to match your project perfectly.
Need help choosing or want a quote? Contact our team today- we supply a wide range of high-quality posts for all types of fencing and retaining wall projects.
