Dry Pour vs Wet Pour for Fence Posts

Dry Pour vs Wet Pour for Fence Posts: Which Method Works?

Setting fence posts in concrete can be done two ways: wet pour (premix concrete) or dry pour (dry mix in hole, then add water). Wet pour creates stronger, structural bonds. Dry pour is faster but risks dry pockets. Understanding both methods helps you choose the right approach for your fence project.

Wet Pour (Premix): Stronger, Structural Bond

Wet pour uses premixed concrete that's ready to use.

How It Works

1. Mix concrete with water in a wheelbarrow or mixer
2. Pour wet, mixed concrete into post hole
3. Consolidate (tap or vibrate) to remove air
4. Concrete bonds properly as it cures

Advantages

• Stronger bond: Proper mixing ensures complete hydration
• Structural bond: No dry pockets, concrete cures properly
• Proper strength: Achieves full concrete strength
• Reliable: Professional, proven method

Process

• Mix concrete to proper consistency
• Pour into hole around post
• Consolidate to remove air
• Allow to cure

Dry Pour: Faster, Risk of Dry Pockets

Dry pour places dry concrete mix in the hole, then adds water.

How It Works

1. Pour dry concrete mix into post hole
2. Add water to the hole
3. Mix in place (difficult to do properly)
4. Risks incomplete mixing

Problems with Dry Pour

• Dry pockets: Areas that don't get mixed properly
• Incomplete hydration: Concrete may not cure properly
• Weak spots: Dry areas create weak points
• Unreliable mixing: Hard to mix properly in hole

When Dry Pour Might Work

• Non-structural posts: Decorative fences only
• Light-duty: Not supporting significant weight
• Acceptable risk: If failure isn't critical

Why Wet Pour is Better

Wet pour provides:

• Proper mixing: Concrete is mixed before placement
• Proper hydration: All cement particles get water
• Full strength: Concrete reaches proper strength
• Reliable: Professional method that works

The Bottom Line

Wet pour (premix) creates stronger, structural bonds—concrete is properly mixed before placement. Dry pour is faster but risks dry pockets and incomplete mixing. Only use dry pour for non-structural, decorative posts where failure isn't critical. For any structural fence, always use wet pour for reliable strength and proper bonding.

Don't take shortcuts with fence posts—use wet pour for posts that need to hold. The small extra time is worth it for reliable, strong posts.

Need help with fence post installation? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We use proper methods to ensure strong, reliable fence posts.