Before buying any round posts be aware that they will have large splits and knots in them. Most round posts are intended for agricultural use and not intended for play areas. These play posts would typically be about 8 times as expensive.

 

Why are round posts rough in appearance? 

Round posts are planted from fencing grade products – fast grown European stock. They are primarily for agricultural fencing chosen for low prices and faster growth rather than for their appearance 

I have been offered some Cundy Peel round posts and they seem very cheap? What am I letting myself in for?

We do not sell Cundy posts but there is nothing wrong with them as such. They are rough-cut posts with the bark scraped off. Safest bet, if appearance is important, would be to try and get some images of these posts before purchasing.

What is the next grade up visually?

The timber industry ranks round posts by perceived longevity rather than appearance. We sell UC4 round posts with a 15-year performance guarantee and the next grade up is the 20-year guarantee in the Dura2 posts.

Why can’t the manufacturers stop the splitting of their posts?

During storage larger posts will dry at different rates. Splits and cracks will occur in timbers because they will expand and contract with humidity and temperature changes. This occurs with both round and square posts, round timbers due to the nature of their structure are particularly prone to splits and cracks.

Each stake is tapered at one end for easy installation and is pressure-treated to enhance durability and protect against rot. This treatment enhances performance and improves service life. Round posts are normally installed with a mechanised post-rammer.

Square posts vs Round posts

When it comes to visual appeal the round posts, and their smoother surfaces offer a great choice for play structures. Unlike square and rectangular posts the round posts don't have sharp corners. With play structures children will be physically engaged and may collide with a sharp edge.

Some points to remember

  • Don’t cross- cut round posts
  • Don’t drill through the posts apart from where gate fittings have to be added
  • If you do have to drill through posts then apply some timber end grain preservative
  • Keep a paper or digital copy of your purchase and follow instructions on how to validate any warrantees/guarantees for the products purchased