fence project - reuse existing posts

[Bradfurd]

I have an existing fence, round wood posts with 2x10 stained boards as a top rail, and standard wire mesh fencing fastened to the top rail and posts. I want to keep the existing posts, but redo the fence and gates. We are leaning toward wood rails stained black with some type of fabric or wire fencing, as we want to maintain the visibility.

Any ideas to keep this looking good and optimally functional without breaking the bank? I haven't measured my post spacing, but they are approximately 8' OC.

[lthenderson]

I would get a good idea of what shape the wooden posts are in below ground before investing in a lot of money above ground. Wood posts in the ground have a finite lifespan and it would be a shame to waste a lot of time and money only to have to redo them when they start snapping off from rot.

[ncornilsen]

In my experience, the posts usually rot off a bit before the fence itself begins to rot and fall apart... so they really have to be replaced when the fence is rebuilt.

Your milage may vary.

[slackmax]

Take heart!  Depends what the wood is. I have Locust posts that are still good after 33 years in the ground. I have a split rail fence. True, I have had to replace about 5 posts in those 33 years due to rot. 5 posts out of 30. Not bad.

It is a time-consuming event to dig out the old post. Takes me about 4 hours total for one post.  Dig for 30 minutes, take break until tomorrow.

The rails are another story. I don't know what the original rails were made of, probably pine. I have already had to replace about half of the rails due to rot.

But now when I replace a rail, I give the new rail it 2 coats of Olympic wood sealer, which has so far worked well, it seems, to keep moisture out.   

    The rails used to be $7.99 each, but now have inflated to $13.99 each!