hello all.
i wanted to get opinions as to the wisdom of installing concrete tops to wood fence posts. I have built a fence with 6×6 posts. To match another fence on the property (brick construction with masonry column tops) i have made some smaller tops of type “s” mortar put in 2 x 4 forms with an anchor pin set in the concrete. Does the direct contact of concrete on wood in this manner create water absorption /rot issues? The posts are ACQ treated. I have never seen concrete toppers on fence posts. This is a cost effective way to top the posts if i haven’t created a long term maintenance issue. thanks
Replies
The concrete tops are going to hold some moisture. My concern would be that the top end-grain of the post would eventually rot. This is what I would do to address it:
Thanks,
TTF
Edited 11/3/2005 1:24 am ET by TTF
Have you considered flashing beneath the post toppers? Cut a bit of flashing material slightly larger than your post and turn it down over the edges. I'd have a little shim at the center of the post to give it some slope. May not be a total cure but it could add some years to the lifetime of the posts for minimal investment.
It would be a rot issue except that you have PT posts so no problem
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