What height should the above-ground concrete around a fence post be raised to?

• A. 2 inches high
• B. 4 inches high
• C. 1 inch high
• D. 3 inches high

Answer: (A)

When you pour concrete around a fence post, you want a small protective collar that keeps the wood away from direct ground moisture while still letting water shed away. About two inches above the surrounding soil is ideal because it provides a stable cap over the base of the post and helps prevent moisture from wicking into the wood, which reduces rot. It also avoids creating a deep barrier that could trap water or splashing against the post. If the collar were higher, moisture could accumulate against the wood and insects or rot could become a problem; if it were much lower, the base wouldn’t protect the wood well and erosion or settling could loosen the post. So, a two-inch raised concrete collar best balances protection, drainage, and stability.