In a 1925 booklet, the Portland Cement Association praises the superior qualities of concrete fence posts. Apparently at that time these posts were becoming very popular for several reasons. Concrete posts:
- become stronger with age
- are not damaged by fire
- weeds along the fence line can be burned without damaging posts
- are not affected by weather, insects or fungi
- will not rot
- reducing expense and time of replacement
- are uniform in size and shape
- easy to line up and set for an attractive appearance
- stay put
Concrete fence posts are fairly easy to make. Their final shape will be determined by the molds used. Wood or metal molds are acceptable. At the time the booklet was printed, metal molds for posts were available to purchase. Reinforcement rods are required for strength.
Concrete posts were used extensively by some of the railroads for their right of way fences. Use by farmers quickly followed. They were recommended as ideal permanent posts for vineyards to support grapevines. It was claimed that they would outlast the vineyard.
Corner and gate posts were often made on site due to the increased size and weight required to resist the tension and bear the weight. Angle braces to give the fence rigidity can also be made of concrete.
It is possible to make elaborate and decorative posts. The forms or molds can be made with interesting angles. Laying small stones against the form face in the mold gives the posts an interesting texture.
Are concrete posts a thing of the past, when "Spare time can be profitably used in making them."?
Would attractive concrete posts be of interest today?
Would you want concrete posts surrounding your garden or property?
