What size post for a 5ft fence?

A 5-foot fence needs a post with enough width for its fence system and enough length for the visible and buried portions. You need to check both measurements separately.

What size post should you use for a 5ft fence?

A nominal 4×4 timber post is a common starting option for conventional residential wood fencing, not an automatic specification for every 5-foot fence. Lowe’s wood-fence materials list identifies these posts as 3.5 inches square in actual dimensions. A solid panel, wide gate or exposed site needs the appropriate installation details.

How long does the post need to be?

If you need 60 inches above ground, the height-based comparison gives 20–30 inches buried. That means 80–90 inches of total post length, before extra projection or a ground gap. These fractions are preliminary estimates, as explained in our standard-depth guide.

For example, 60 inches visible plus 30 inches buried needs a 90-inch post. With a 96-inch post, you have 6 inches for your top arrangement or trimming. With a separate 6-inch base beneath that buried length, the hole is 36 inches deep.

Check width and treatment before buying

Measure the post width for your concrete estimate, and check its treatment tag for ground contact. The USDA pressure-treated wood guide explains why exposure and application matter when selecting treated wood. Vinyl sleeves and steel posts require their own system details; you need their specified components even when the outside width matches timber.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 6-foot post long enough?

With 5 feet visible, only 12 inches remain buried. Check the required installation depth before buying.

Should gate posts be the same size?

Gate weight, width and hardware need separate verification before you order the supporting posts.

How many posts do I need?

That depends on the run length, approved spacing, corners and gate openings.