I am building a split-rail fence out of locust rails and posts. The posts
will be set about 8 feet apart. I plan to dig postholes about 18 inches
deep, and set the posts into concrete.

What is the best method, and type of concrete ? My thinking was to use
Quickcrete fast-setting concrete. With similar things in the past, I have
mixed the concrete with water, and poured the mix in and around the post.
But, it seems that I have heard that other folks just pour the dry power in
the hole around the post, and allow the moisture in the surrounding soil to
harden the mix. Others pour in dry, and then just add a modest amount of
water in the hole.

If your posts are dimensional (4x4 or 6x6) the following process
worked well for me. If your posts are roundish, then simply set them
in the holes with a few inches of gravel in the bottom, and use
quickcrete (regular or quick setting - it's up to you.) that has been
mixed to a pretty thick consistency. Level the post in all directions
and cross-brace for 24 hours before adding attachments.


If using dimentional lumber, the way I did the posts all around my
house, is to:
1. String a centerline along the length of the fence run.
2. Dig the hole to desired depth (in my case, 24").
3. Insert 10" sonnet tube that has been cut to desired length/height.
4. Backfill, leveling the tube along the way.
5. Mix quickcrete (regular or quick setting - It's up to you.)
6. Fill the tube with mixed quickcrete.
7. Set post anchor according to the centerline.
8. After concrete is dry, test fit posts, mark holes, drill holes, and
bolt posts into post anchors.

The fence is now over 14 years old. No rot, no leaning.