When planning a new fence, most homeowners focus on materials, style, and cost. But one of the most important decisions—often overlooked—is how the fence posts are installed. Two common methods are digging and setting posts in concrete and pounding (driving) posts into the ground.
Both methods can work. Both methods can fail. The difference usually isn’t the method—it’s the quality of the installation and the experience of the contractor.
At Babb Custom Fence, we continue to dig and set fence posts in concrete because we believe it remains the most tried-and-true approach for long-term performance when done correctly.
Let’s break down the differences.
Dig & Set Fence Posts (Concrete-Set Posts)
This traditional method involves digging a hole, placing the post, and setting it in concrete.
Pros:
- Proven longevity – This method has been used successfully for decades in residential fencing.
- Excellent stability – Especially important for privacy fences, gates, and wind-exposed areas.
- Consistent performance – Works well across a wide range of soil types when installed properly.
- Ideal for heavy fences – Wood privacy, decorative fencing, and custom gates benefit from the added mass and rigidity.
Considerations:
- Installation time – Concrete requires proper placement and time to set.
- Must be done correctly – Poor drainage, shallow holes, or sloppy finishing can cause premature failure.
When people say “concrete-set posts fail,” what they usually mean is poorly installed concrete-set posts fail.
Driven (Pounded) Fence Posts
Driven posts are mechanically pounded directly into the soil using specialized equipment—no concrete involved.
Pros:
- Faster installation – No digging or curing time.
- Minimal ground disturbance – Cleaner install in some situations.
- Can perform well in tight soils – Clay or compacted ground can hold driven posts firmly.
Considerations:
- Soil-dependent – Loose, sandy, or variable soils can reduce holding strength.
- Less forgiving – If alignment is off or soil conditions change mid-run, adjustments are difficult.
- Not ideal for all fences – Taller privacy fences and heavy gates often benefit from deeper, reinforced footings.
Driven posts can be effective—but they are not automatically superior or longer-lasting.
The Truth: Fence Posts Don’t Fail Because of the Method
Fence posts almost always fail because of installation shortcuts, not because of whether they were dug or driven.
Common causes of fence failure include:
- Posts not set deep enough
- Poor drainage at the base of the post
- Inadequate compaction
- Rushing the process
- Lack of experience reading soil conditions
No method can compensate for careless installation.
Why We Continue to Dig & Set Posts
We choose to dig and set posts because:
- It allows us to control depth, drainage, and alignment
- It performs consistently in South Dakota’s freeze-thaw cycles
- It provides long-term stability for the types of fences we build
- It aligns with our commitment to building fences that last—not just fences that go up fast
It’s not the easiest or quickest method. But it’s the method we trust.
The Most Important Decision You’ll Make
Whether a fence post is dug or driven matters far less than who installs it.
Choosing a fence builder with:
- A proven track record
- Strong reviews
- Visible past projects
- Clear installation standards
…will matter more than any single technique.
At Babb Custom Fence, we don’t do things the right way because someone is watching—we do them the right way because our reputation and legacy depend on it.
If you’re planning a fence and want honest guidance, we’re always happy to provide free estimates or straightforward advice to help you make the best decision for your property.