"Doug Steckel" wrote in message
...
Hello all,

I'm getting some conflicting advice on the best mix to use for setting
fence posts for a 6ft vinyl privacy fence. I've been told that any
Quikrete mix (like the #1101) will set up if poured dry. I've also been
told that the fast setting the fast setting #1004 is far better. Someone
even told me that the non-fast setting will only have half the strength of
the red bag, fast setting mix if poured dry. I'd like to save some money
if possible but don't want to sacrifice strength over the years as this
fence will catch lots of wind over the years.

Any advice?

Thanks,

Doug


For a fence post, the extra expense of quick setting or high strength is
unwarranted. The post hole concrete is a mix with more/bigger/random sized
aggregate in it and optimized to make it easier to absorb water from the
ground.

The whole concept of putting the mix in dry is a time saver. Not only do
you not have to premix the concrete but the dry mix holds the post steady
while the ground water permeates the mix and allows the chemical reaction to
occur. With mixed concrete you will need to brace the post in place while
it sets.

The ground does need to be moist or you can just dump water on top of the
mix in the hole. Sure it takes longer, sure it is not as hard, but you do
not need this for a post of a lightweight vinyl fence