Why Planning Fence Posts Before Concreting Matters

When installing side gates, we often face a frustrating situation: we need to perform core drilling through a newly poured concrete pathway. In many cases, the concrete already has its final decorative finish applied. This is disappointing for homeowners who have invested time and money into making their pathways look perfect.

Unfortunately, many clients are never advised that the best approach is to install fence and gate posts before the concrete pathway is poured and finished.

We understand all sides involved. Concrete contractors and decorative concrete specialists naturally prefer working in open spaces without posts and fences in the way. Sometimes clients are told that gate posts can simply be installed later on a base plate. While base plate posts can work in some situations, they are generally not ideal for gates. Gate posts carry constant movement and load, which often causes them to become loose and unstable over time.

Everyone’s perspective makes sense, but in the end, the customer is often the one who suffers — and that should not happen.

Wherever possible, we recommend a staged approach. First, we install the posts. Then concrete contractors pour the pathway around them. After that, decorative concrete specialists complete the final finish or coating. Only after all these stages are complete we install the fence panels and gates.

This process takes a little more planning, but it protects your investment and delivers a much cleaner and more durable result.