Electric fencing has become one of the most widely used and effective ways of managing livestock, protecting crops, and securing land across the UK. Farmers, horse owners, and smallholders rely on it because it is cost-effective, flexible, and quick to install. While most people tend to focus on energisers, wires, and tapes, there is one part of the system that quietly does the heavy lifting: the posts.
Electric fence posts provide the structure and stability that make the whole system work. Without them, wires sag, tape droops, and your animals soon learn to push through or jump over. With the right posts, however, your fence stays upright, safe, and reliable for years to come.
This guide is designed to be the definitive UK resource on electric fence posts in 2025. It covers what posts are, the different types, how much they cost, the common problems you may face, comparisons between materials, reviews of the leading UK brands, a ranking of the best posts available this year, and a full FAQ section addressing the most common questions people ask. Written in clear UK English, it is practical, honest, and detailed — the sort of content you can trust whether you are a farmer managing hundreds of head of cattle, a horse owner fencing paddocks, or a gardener protecting your vegetables.
What Are Electric Fence Posts?
Electric fence posts are the uprights that hold the conductors of an electric fence — the wire, rope, or tape — at the correct height and spacing. Unlike traditional fencing, the barrier is psychological. Animals learn to respect the mild but memorable shock the fence delivers. For the fence to remain effective, it must be consistent. Posts are what keep the conductors in place, taut and visible, so the psychological boundary remains intact.
Because electric fencing is used in so many situations — from small poultry pens to long boundary lines for cattle — the posts come in a wide range of materials and sizes. Some are light and portable, designed to be moved daily for strip grazing. Others are permanent structures that stay in the ground for decades.
Cost of Electric Fence Posts in the UK
Price is often the first concern when planning a fencing project. Here's what you can realistically expect to pay in 2025.
Average Price Per Post
- Plastic posts: £1.50–£6
- Wooden posts: £5–£12
- Steel posts: £6–£15
- Fibreglass posts: £6–£10
Example: Cost Per 100m Fence Line (posts every 4m)
- Plastic: 25 posts = £50–£150
- Wooden: 25 posts = £125–£300
- Steel: 25 posts = £150–£375
- Fibreglass: 25 posts = £150–£250
Worked Example: Fencing 1 Acre for Cattle
An acre perimeter is roughly 250 metres. If you place posts every 4 metres you need 63 posts. Wooden posts would cost around £315–£756. Plastic posts would cost £95–£378. Steel posts would cost £378–£945.
Worked Example: Horse Paddock (10 Horses, 2 Acres)
A two-acre paddock perimeter is roughly 350 metres. With posts every 3.5 metres you need about 100 posts. A wooden and fibreglass hybrid would cost around £500–£1,000. A plastic-only system would cost £150–£600 but with a shorter lifespan.
Lifetime Value
- Plastic: Cheapest up front, lasts 3–7 years.
- Wooden: Higher cost, lasts 10–20 years.
- Steel: Expensive, but can last decades.
- Fibreglass: Middle ground, long life but occasional splintering.
💡 Tip: Use strong wooden or steel posts at corners and gates, and lighter plastic along straight runs.
Types of Electric Fence Posts
Plastic Posts
Made from UV-stabilised polypropylene, usually in white, green, or orange for visibility. Heights range from 0.75m to 1.5m. Clips are moulded in.
Pros: Affordable, light, quick to install, weather-resistant.
Cons: Can bend or snap under pressure, shorter lifespan.
Wooden Posts
Pressure-treated timber, usually 1.5m–2.5m. Require insulators.
Pros: Strong, natural looking, very long lasting.
Cons: Heavier, more expensive, can rot at soil level.
Steel Posts
Galvanised T- or Y-posts driven into the ground. Need insulators.
Pros: Extremely durable, good for stony ground.
Cons: Heavy, difficult to move, higher upfront cost.
Fibreglass Posts
Lightweight and flexible. Require clips.
Pros: Weather-resistant, safe for horses, don't rot.
Cons: More expensive, can splinter if damaged.
Problems with Electric Fence Posts (Case-Style Examples)
Plastic Posts Snapping
A smallholder in Cumbria used budget plastic posts for a cattle strip grazing system. By the second winter, 40 per cent had snapped at the base due to frost brittleness. The solution was to switch to premium UV-stabilised posts with reinforced foot pegs.
Wooden Posts Rotting
A sheep farm in Wales installed untreated timber posts to save costs. Within five years, rot at the soil line caused large sections to collapse. Replacing with pressure-treated posts doubled the lifespan.
Steel Posts Hard to Install
A Yorkshire beef farmer attempted to install galvanised steel T-posts by hand, finding it too difficult. Hiring a hydraulic post driver made installation quick, but at added cost.
Fibreglass Splinters
An equestrian yard near Oxford reported handling issues after fibreglass posts splintered over time. Gloves and careful replacement solved the issue.
Legal Pitfalls
A bridleway fence in Devon lacked warning signs, leading to a complaint from a rambler. Signs were installed at 50m intervals to comply with HSE guidance.
Plastic vs Wooden vs Steel vs Fibreglass
Plastic vs Wooden
Plastic = cheap, portable, temporary.
Wood = strong, expensive, permanent.
Steel vs Fibreglass
Steel = durable, low maintenance, best for stony ground.
Fibreglass = flexible, safer for horses, lighter.
By Animal
- Horses: Fibreglass or wooden with wide tape.
- Cattle: Strong corners (wood/steel), plastic in runs.
- Poultry: Lightweight plastic with netting.
Reviews of UK Brands (Expanded)
Gallagher
Gallagher is widely regarded as the premium brand for electric fencing components. Their posts are thicker, UV-stabilised, and built to last. While they cost more, farmers consistently report they outlast cheaper alternatives. Gallagher's steel T-posts are especially durable.
User feedback: On Trustpilot, many UK farmers note that while Gallagher posts are double the price of budget brands, they often last two to three times longer.
Rutland
Rutland is a trusted UK brand offering a balance between cost and durability. Their wooden strainers and corner kits are considered industry standard. Their plastic posts are reliable but less heavy-duty than Gallagher.
User feedback: Smallholders appreciate the price-quality ratio. Commonly stocked at Mole Valley and similar outlets.
Horizont
Known for fibreglass fencing solutions, Horizont is especially popular with horse owners. Posts are flexible, safe, and weather-resistant. More expensive, but horse yards report long-term savings.
User feedback: Highly praised in equestrian forums. Safety is the standout feature.
Agrifence
Agrifence offers budget-friendly options, particularly in plastic posts. They are widely available and cheap to buy in bulk.
User feedback: Ideal for poultry and gardens. Less suitable for cattle due to reduced durability.
Top 15 Electric Fence Posts UK 2025
- Gallagher TurboLine Plastic Post – best durability
- Rutland Wooden Strainer – best permanent
- Agrifence Plastic Poultry Post – best for poultry
- Horizont Fibreglass Horse Post – best for horses
- Gallagher Heavy Duty T-Post – best for stony ground
- Rutland Multi-Wire Post – versatile
- Agrifence Budget Post – cheapest entry
- Horizont Tall Fibreglass Post – visibility
- Gallagher Ring Insulated Post – innovation
- Rutland Corner Kit – best gateways
- Gallagher Polyline Tall Post – best for deer fencing
- Agrifence Starter Pack – best for beginners
- Horizont Compact Fibreglass Post – portable option
- Rutland Heavy Duty Timber – best long-term farm fencing
- Gallagher Eco Post – eco-friendly recycled plastic option
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining electric fence posts is straightforward but essential.
Check alignment monthly. Leaning posts weaken quickly. Inspect after storms. High winds often dislodge plastic posts. Replace insulators immediately. A single cracked insulator can ground a whole section. Clear vegetation from the fence line — weeds sap current. Store spares indoors during winter. Timber treatment every five to seven years maximises lifespan.
With care, wooden and steel posts last decades, while plastic posts average three to seven years.
Installation Guide
- Plan your layout carefully. Walk the boundary, mark corners, gates, and changes in terrain.
- Corner posts first. Use the strongest posts available (timber or steel). Brace them securely.
- Spacing. Three to four metres for horses and cattle; five to six metres for sheep and poultry.
- Depth. At least one-third below ground. Use gravel for drainage.
- Insulators. Always use high-quality insulators with timber/steel.
- Tensioning. Keep conductors taut but avoid over-tensioning, which causes breakages.
- Testing. Always check with a fence tester to confirm voltage throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart should electric fence posts be?
Spacing depends on terrain, stock pressure, and conductor type. On flat land with light stock such as sheep or poultry, posts can be spaced six metres apart. For cattle or horses, three to four metres is better to prevent sagging. On hilly or uneven ground, closer spacing is essential. Too wide spacing is the number one cause of sagging, ineffective fences in the UK.
Can I mix post types in one fence?
Yes, and it's often recommended. Wooden or steel posts provide strong anchors at corners and gateways, while plastic or fibreglass posts can be used along straight runs. This approach reduces cost and installation time without sacrificing strength. Many UK farmers use this hybrid method as standard practice.
How deep should posts go into the ground?
As a rule, one-third of the post should be below ground. For a 1.5m post, aim for 50cm deep. In soft soil or exposed sites, go deeper. Wooden posts in cattle fields often require 60–75cm depth. Setting timber posts in gravel also helps prevent rot.
Do I need insulators with plastic posts?
No. Plastic posts come with moulded clips designed to hold wires or tape without shorting. Wooden and steel posts always require insulators to prevent grounding. Using insulators with plastic is unnecessary and wastes money.
Are electric fence posts safe for horses?
Yes, provided they are tall enough (1.5m or more) and used with wide, visible tape. Horses are sensitive and will respect the shock if they can see the barrier. Fibreglass posts are especially popular for paddocks due to flexibility and safety. Wooden posts also work well if used with smooth insulators and tape.
How long do wooden posts last?
With pressure treatment, most last 10–20 years. Rot typically occurs at the soil line. Wrapping or coating the base, or setting posts in gravel, can extend life further. Some farmers still report posts lasting 25 years or more if maintained carefully.
Do plastic posts break easily?
Cheaper ones do, particularly in frost. Premium UV-stabilised posts are much stronger. Look for reinforced foot pegs and thicker shafts for cattle or horse use. Buying quality posts saves money over time, as replacements are fewer.
Do I need planning permission?
Generally, no. However, fences bordering public paths must display warning signs every 50–100m. Always check with local councils if in doubt, particularly near bridleways or rights of way. In rare cases, planning may be needed for unusually tall or permanent fencing.
Are fibreglass posts worth the price?
For horses, absolutely. Fibreglass posts don't splinter under pressure, flex safely, and last for years. For cattle, they are less necessary unless aesthetics or safety are top priorities. Horse owners tend to find the higher upfront cost pays off in reduced accidents.
Can electric fencing harm people?
No. UK standards regulate energisers so the shock is safe, though unpleasant. Fences deliver short pulses of electricity designed to deter, not injure. Children and pets may find it uncomfortable but it is not dangerous.
Can I install steel posts myself?
Yes, but it's heavy work. A manual or mechanical post driver is essential. Steel posts are best reserved for permanent boundary fences. Attempting to drive them by hand with only a hammer is time-consuming and ineffective.
Which posts are best for poultry?
Lightweight plastic posts with poultry netting are ideal. They are cheap, easy to move, and provide enough structure to keep netting upright. For permanent poultry runs, wooden posts at corners add stability.
Do posts need to be the same height?
Consistency is important for appearance and function, but posts can be mixed if conductors are lined up properly. For example, wooden posts at corners may be taller than plastic posts in between. The important part is ensuring the wires or tape run evenly.
What's the cheapest fencing system?
Plastic posts with polywire are cheapest, ideal for strip grazing sheep or cattle. For long-term use, a mix of wooden and plastic is more cost-effective overall. The cheapest option isn't always the best, as frequent replacement of broken posts can add hidden costs.
Why does my fence sag?
Usually because posts are too far apart, not deep enough, or because corners are weak. Always brace corners and use sturdy posts at stress points. Tensioning conductors properly also prevents sagging.
Can I electrify existing wooden posts?
Yes, by adding screw-in or nail-on insulators. This is a common method for retrofitting existing fences. You simply attach insulators at the correct height and thread wire or tape through them.
Do posts affect fence voltage?
Only if the conductor touches a post without insulation. Wooden and steel posts will ground the current immediately, which is why insulators are critical. Plastic posts avoid this issue, which is why they are often used in straight runs.
How tall should posts be for cattle?
At least 1.2m, with three wires spaced at 60cm, 90cm, and 120cm. Bulls may require even taller fences. Using taller posts also makes fences more visible, reducing the risk of animals testing them.
How tall for horses?
At least 1.5m, with tape at chest and nose height. Horses respect wide tape more than thin wire. Using posts shorter than this risks animals leaning over or jumping.
What if my posts keep leaning?
Likely caused by soft ground or shallow depth. Use longer posts, add braces, or set wooden posts in gravel or concrete for added stability. Leaning is especially common after heavy rain, so inspect regularly.
Can I reuse posts?
Plastic and fibreglass are easily reusable. Wooden posts are harder to move, but steel can often be pulled up and reused. Reusing posts saves money and reduces waste.
Do electric fences work in wet weather?
Yes, but posts may loosen in waterlogged soil. Always check after heavy rain. Wet conditions can also increase grounding risk if insulators are damaged.
Which colour posts are best?
White and green are easiest to see for most animals. Orange is often used in poultry netting for visibility. Horses tend to notice white best, while sheep are less fussy.
What tools do I need to install posts?
Plastic posts need only a mallet. Wooden posts may require a spade, auger, or driver. Steel posts are best driven with a post driver. Having the right tool makes installation faster and safer.
Where can I buy electric fence posts in the UK?
From agricultural suppliers such as Mole Valley, Wynnstay, or Carrs Billington, equestrian outlets, and online retailers like Farmcare or Scats. Buying in bulk often reduces the price significantly.
Conclusion
Electric fence posts are the foundation of any electric fencing system. They determine how straight, strong, and long-lasting your fence will be. By carefully choosing the right type for your animals and land, balancing cost with durability, and maintaining them regularly, you'll have a reliable fence that keeps animals safe and land protected for years.
Most UK users benefit from a hybrid system: wooden or steel at corners and gates, plastic or fibreglass along the runs. Horses require safety and visibility, cattle need strength, and poultry need light, portable posts. There is no one-size-fits-all answer — but by being honest about cost, problems, and comparisons, you can make the best decision.
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