When choosing posts for an electric fence, most people think of plastic or wooden first. But there are two other strong contenders — steel and fibreglass. Both are widely used across the UK, and both come with unique strengths and weaknesses. The big question is: Which one is right for your fence?
In this guide, we'll compare steel and fibreglass electric fence posts head-to-head. We'll cover cost, durability, ease of installation, and the types of livestock they suit best. Along the way, we'll look at why trusted brands like Gallagher and Hotline make these materials worth the investment.
What Are Steel Electric Fence Posts?
Steel posts are typically galvanised T-posts or Y-posts that are driven into the ground. They're incredibly tough and designed to last decades. Because they conduct electricity, they always require insulators to hold wires or tape.
Pros of steel posts:
- Extremely durable, often lasting 30 years or more.
- Great for rocky or stony ground where wooden posts are hard to drive.
- Can handle heavy livestock pressure without bending.
- "Fit and forget" once installed.
Cons of steel posts:
- Heavier and harder to install — usually need a driver.
- More expensive upfront.
- Not ideal for temporary or movable fences.
Gallagher's heavy-duty galvanised T-posts are the gold standard in this category. They're built for farmers who want a permanent solution and don't want to think about replacing posts for decades.
What Are Fibreglass Electric Fence Posts?
Fibreglass posts are lightweight but flexible. They bend rather than snap, making them especially safe for horses. Like plastic posts, they are non-conductive and don't require insulators, though clips may be needed.
Pros of fibreglass posts:
- Flexible and safe — excellent for horse paddocks.
- Weather-resistant, won't rot like timber.
- Easier to handle than steel.
- Long-lasting (10–15 years).
Cons of fibreglass posts:
- More expensive than plastic.
- Can fray or splinter over time, so gloves are advised.
- Not as durable as steel in extreme conditions.
Hotline's fibreglass range is popular with equestrian yards across the UK. Their tall posts are designed for visibility and safety, reducing the risk of horses pushing through.
If you want to know more then read our complete UK guide to electric fence posts
Cost Comparison
Steel posts: £6–£15 each (more if bought individually).
Fibreglass posts: £6–£10 each.
Per acre (≈80 posts):
- Steel: £480–£1,200
- Fibreglass: £480–£800
So upfront, steel tends to be pricier, especially when factoring in the cost of insulators. Fibreglass offers a balance between plastic and steel in terms of price.
Durability
Steel: Can last decades with minimal maintenance. Galvanisation protects against rust, and once in, they rarely need replacing. Gallagher steel posts are widely known for lasting longer than almost anything else on the market.
Fibreglass: Typically lasts 10–15 years. Flexible enough to withstand knocks, but prone to surface splintering over time. Hotline fibreglass posts are built with UV protection, so they hold up well in British weather.
Verdict: Steel wins for sheer lifespan. Fibreglass wins for flexibility and safety.
Ease of Installation
Steel posts: Require a driver (manual or hydraulic). Once in, they stay put. Not practical for quick moves or temporary setups.
Fibreglass posts: Easy to install by hand. Lighter than steel, so they're quicker to shift and reuse.
Verdict: Fibreglass is easier for smallholders and horse owners. Steel is better for permanent farm boundaries.
Best Use Cases
Steel posts are best for:
- Permanent boundary fencing.
- Cattle and sheep enclosures on rough ground.
- Farms where "install once and forget" is the priority.
Fibreglass posts are best for:
- Horse paddocks where safety and visibility are key.
- Semi-permanent fences that may need moving in future.
- Situations where you want strong posts without heavy labour.
Gallagher Steel vs Hotline Fibreglass
When it comes to brand trust:
- Gallagher steel posts are incredibly robust. Farmers who invest in them rarely have to replace posts for decades. They're expensive but reliable.
- Hotline fibreglass posts are a favourite in the equestrian world. Their tall, flexible design means horses see them, respect them, and don't get injured if they brush against them.
For many UK landowners, the winning formula is a mix — steel for boundaries and corners, fibreglass for paddocks and runs where safety matters most.
Final Word: Tough vs Safe
Steel and fibreglass posts aren't rivals so much as complementary tools. Steel is all about permanence and toughness. Fibreglass is about safety, flexibility, and ease of handling.
If you want a fence that will stand for a generation, Gallagher steel posts are hard to beat. If you want safe, horse-friendly paddocks with posts you can move easily, Hotline fibreglass is the smart buy.
Most UK farmers and horse owners use both — because the real secret to a good fence is choosing the right post for the right place.