Steel is one of the most popular materials for fence posts due to its strength and durability. When properly constructed, steel fence posts can do a great job of keeping your property safe and well-secured, acting as a deterrent to potential intruders. However, a fence post is only as strong as its foundation, and the quality of the foundation can significantly impact how effective a steel fence post is. In this post, we take a closer look at the role that foundations play in fencing and the consequences that inadequate foundations can have.
The Role of Foundations
Just as in a building, the foundations underlying a steel fence and its constituent fence posts contribute to the strength of the structure as a whole. Foundations provide support for the weight of the fence, ensuring that any load is distributed evenly across the ground and that the fence remains stably anchored to the ground. This prevents the fence from collapsing as a result of external forces such as heavy winds or ground movements.
In addition, by ensuring an even load distribution, the foundation can help ensure that the fence does not sink into the ground, which might potentially cause structural damage. In areas that are prone to flooding, foundations may also act as barriers that can help protect the fence from water damage.
Consequences of Inadequate Foundations
Having an inadequate foundation for your fence can be detrimental and may lead to its significantly shortened lifespan, amongst other consequences. Some other potential consequences that inadequate foundations can have include:
Structural Instability
Structural instability is a severe consequence that might result in the structural failure of your fence as a whole. If the foundation for your fence fails, it may collapse, damaging your property.
Safety Hazards for Property and Individuals
A poor foundation may also pose a safety hazard for your property and individuals in your home. Given that steel is not a lightweight material, a collapsing steel fence has the potential to cause significant impact damage to anything or anyone that it hits.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Advice
Because of the far-reaching consequences that your fence’s foundations can have, it is crucial for you to seek professional advice when it comes to designing, building and even maintaining your fences. A professional contractor or builder would be in the best position to recommend a suitable foundation that meets the specific needs and demands of your fence.
Getting Your Steel from a Trusted Supplier
At the same time, if you’re planning on building a steel fence, it is also important to get your steel from a reputable supplier. RW Steel is a leading supplier of steel and steel products, and we have a large selection of galvanised steel posts, retaining wall steel and steel beams to meet your every need. For more information, contact us today!