The Difference Between a U Post and a T Post

U Post vs T Post: U post or a T post depends on your fencing needs. Choosing fence posts means taking various factors into account. U posts and T posts both have pros and cons and you have to choose what will work best for your fencing needs.

You will have to keep in mind the animals you’re containing or keeping out, the shape of the terrain, the soil, your long-term plans for fencing, and your budget. A fence is a big investment and it is only as strong as the fence posts to which it is secured.

Use of the fence

A sturdy fence is necessary for large animals that may lean against or try to jump over it. Shaky, small posts will not withstand this. A large, sturdy fence is not really necessary if it’s not in harsh conditions and doesn’t have to keep animals in or out.

According to a Publication from Tennessee Edu, U posts are generally heavier duty and used in fencing for larger animals such as horses and cattle. T posts are easier to drive in and reuse. They are commonly used to protect poultry or gardens.

Shape and height

The first obvious difference between a U post and a T post is the shape. U posts have a U-shaped cross-section, while T posts look like the letter T. Both types of posts come in a range of lengths.

T posts come in six, seven, and eight-foot lengths and range from lighter ones to heavier ones that can withstand more pressure.

U posts also come in various lengths ranging from about three to seven feet. When selecting the correct length for your project, you need to choose a post that is taller than your finished fence because it has to be buried at least two feet deep to prevent weather conditions or animals from pulling them out.

Attachment method

U posts have holes punched along the posts that enable them to be surely attached to the fencing wire. T posts are punched or studded and when they are studded, they require wire clips to securely attach them to the fencing wire to keep it in place and prevent excessive movement. Wrapping wire clips around T posts and fence wire requires the use of bending tools or fence pliers.

Materials

Both treated wood and steel T posts are popular materials for use in wire fence construction. Treated wood posts are quite expensive and are more suitable for shorter boundary fences.

Using wood for fence posts can look aesthetically pleasing and can be a great option for various types of wire fencing. When compared to treated wood fence posts, metal posts are easy to install and more affordable.

T posts are usually manufactured using metal like rail steel. They are very practical when you have a large area to the fence.

Installation

Both U posts and T posts are easy to install. Steel posts weigh less than wood posts so they are easier to install. An anchor plate at the bottom of the posts keeps them secure and upright.

If animals are going to put more pressure on the outside of the fence, you need to face posts with the studs inward and if animals will put more pressure on the outside of the fence, you need to direct the studs inwards.

The simplest way to drive in T posts is with a manual or automatic post driver and if one isn’t available, you can use a sledgehammer or a hammer. U posts can have a spade which adds stability as it increases the contact area with the ground but one without the spade is easier to hammer into the ground.

Depending on use, fence posts are usually spaced six feet apart. The distance should be determined by the type of fence and how much support it needs to stay taut. The closer the poles are, the stronger the fence will be.

Price

U posts are generally more affordable than T posts and both types of posts are usually sold in bundles of 10 or pallets of 50 bundles. Finally, it depends more on what quality you need and what’s the purpose of fencing. The price should always be a secondary factor and if your budget allows, you should buy only the best.