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Post Hole Concrete Estimator
Leading provider of estimating services.
Accurate concrete calculation for post holes is one of the most overlooked yet essential steps in building fences, decks, pergolas, signposts, retaining systems, mailboxes, outdoor structures, and foundation supports. Whether you’re installing wood posts, steel poles, structural columns, or commercial footers, the correct volume of concrete ensures long-term stability, safety, and performance.
Ordering too little concrete can lead to weak structural support, leaning posts, rework, and additional trip costs. Ordering too much increases waste, budget inefficiency, and unnecessary concrete disposal. This is why an accurate post hole concrete estimate is important before any outdoor structure begins.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we provide detailed and bank-ready concrete post hole estimates for contractors, developers, homeowners, builders, and fence installers across Florida. Our estimating approach includes diameter measurements, hole depth calculations, post embedment requirements, soil conditions, regional building codes, wind-load compliance, and waste allowances—ensuring the numbers align with Florida’s real-world field conditions and installation standards.
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Standard Post Hole Dimensions & Rules of Thumb (Florida Codes & Practical Guidelines)
Post hole sizing isn’t random — it depends on the type of structure, required stability, soil conditions, and regional building codes. In Florida, post hole dimensions are often larger than in other states because of sandy soil, moisture, and hurricane wind zones that require deeper embedment and increased lateral stability.
While exact measurements depend on engineering or manufacturer specifications, the following rules of thumb are commonly used across Florida construction.
General Rule for Post Hole Depth
A widely accepted guideline is:
Hole depth = 1/3 to 1/2 the height of the post above ground
Example:
A 6 ft above-grade fence post should be buried 2–3 ft deep.
Coastal zones and HVHZ regions may require greater embedment depth based on wind load.
Standard Post Hole Diameter Rule
Another common guideline:
Hole diameter = 2–3× the post width
Examples:
Post Size | Standard Hole Diameter |
4×4 post | 8″–12″ hole |
6×6 post | 12″–18″ hole |
Steel/pipe post | Based on outer diameter & wind load |
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Florida Regional Design Considerations
Region | Impact on Post Holes |
Coastal zones | Larger diameters + deeper embedment |
Sandy soil areas | Additional compaction or concrete collar |
Rocky/lime regions | May require mechanical boring |
High water table areas | Faster pour + stronger PSI mix |
These conditions affect both volume and installation method.
Common Post Hole Standards by Application
Project Type | Typical Depth | Typical Diameter |
Residential wood fence | 24″–36″ | 8″–12″ |
Chain-link fence | 24″–36″ | 8″–10″ |
Deck or pergola post | 30″–48″ | 12″–24″ |
Structural column base | 36″–60″+ | 18″–30″+ |
Mailbox post | 16″–24″ | 8″–10″ |
Metal/pipe gate posts | 30″–48″ | 10″–18″ |
Signage and light poles | Engineered | Engineered |
Larger structures almost always require engineering approval, especially in HVHZ counties.
Concrete PSI Requirements for Post Holes in Florida
Concrete used in post hole installations typically falls between:
PSI Rating | Application |
2,500 PSI | Small mailbox or light residential post |
3,000 PSI | Standard fencing |
3,500 PSI | Decks, pergolas, and outdoor structures |
4,000 PSI+ | Structural supports & coastal wind zones |
When installing metal posts in saltwater regions, corrosion inhibitors or fiber additives may be recommended.
Should Concrete Fully Encapsulate the Post?
Best practice in Florida:
✔ For structural installs → Yes, full encapsulation
✔ For wood fences → Often recommended not to surround wood entirely (to prevent rot); gravel or hybrid support may be used
For code-regulated structures, always follow engineering or product documentation.
Concrete Cost for Post Holes in Florida (Material, Labor, Pumping & Mix Comparisons)
Once the diameter and depth of the post hole are confirmed, the next step is calculating how much concrete is needed. Because post holes are cylindrical, the formula used is slightly different from slab or footing calculations.
Once the concrete volume is calculated, the next step is determining the total installed cost. Post hole concrete pricing varies depending on:
- Concrete type (bag mix vs ready-mix)
- Project size and number of holes
- PSI strength and additives
- Pumping or delivery requirements
- Labor and equipment needed
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we include all cost components so clients receive a complete and realistic budget—not only the concrete calculation.
1. Cost of Bagged Concrete (Ready-to-Mix Bags)
Bagged concrete is used for:
- Small fence projects
- Mailboxes
- Minor repairs
- DIY installations
Bag cost varies depending on strength:
Bag Size | PSI | Price Range (Florida) |
40 lb | 2,500–3,000 PSI | $4.50 – $6.50 |
60 lb | 3,000–3,500 PSI | $5.75 – $8.50 |
80 lb | 3,000–4,000 PSI | $7.50 – $11.00 |
Conversion rule:
1 cubic yard ≈ 45 × 80 lb bags
For multiple post holes, bag mix becomes labor-intensive and more expensive per cubic yard compared to ready-mix.
2. Ready-Mix Concrete Cost Per Cubic Yard in Florida
Ready-mix is recommended for:
- Larger hole counts
- Structural installations
- Deck posts
- Sign posts
- Bollards
- Fence lines over 20–30 holes
Average price per cubic yard in Florida:
PSI Strength | Cost Range |
2,500 PSI | $145 – $180 |
3,000 PSI | $155 – $195 |
3,500 PSI | $165 – $210 |
4,000–5,000 PSI | $185 – $260 |
Specialty mixes (Fiber / Marine) | $210 – $325 |
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3. Short Load Fees
For orders under 3–4 cubic yards, suppliers typically charge:
Load Size | Added Cost |
1–2 yards | $150 – $350 extra |
Under 1 yard | Specialty pricing |
4. Pump Truck Costs (If Required)
Pump trucks are needed when:
- Post holes are far from road access
- Concrete cannot be dumped directly
- Site conditions require controlled placement
Pump Type | Cost Range |
Line pump | $550 – $1,100 |
Boom pump | $950 – $2,300 |
Pump priming and hose loss should be included in estimating.
5. Labor Costs for Post Installation
Labor depends on soil hardness, number of holes, and equipment used.
Task | Price Range |
Drilling holes (standard soil) | $20 – $45 per hole |
Installing post + concrete | $35 – $120 per hole |
Large commercial or structural posts | $180 – $650+ per hole |
Labor increases when:
- Soil contains limestone
- Water table interferes
- Hole depth exceeds 3–4 ft
- Posts require bracing or anchoring
- Pump access is restricted
6. Additional Cost Factors
Cost Type | Typical Extra Cost |
Gravel or base material | $0.15 – $0.65 per sq.ft. |
Rebar or anchors | $2 – $20 per post |
Excavation equipment rental | $75 – $350/day |
Inspection fees (if required) | $50 – $300 |
Residential fences rarely require reinforcement, while structural or commercial posts often do.
Post Hole Concrete Estimator Chart (Number of Posts vs. Concrete Needed)
To make estimating faster, it helps to reference pre-calculated charts based on typical hole sizes and depths used in Florida construction. While every project may require adjustments depending on code, soil type, and structure load, these numbers provide a reliable starting point.
All values below include standard waste allowance (10%), but not pump loss or engineering adjustments.
Concrete Needed per Hole (Quick Reference Table)
Hole Diameter | Depth 2 ft | Depth 2.5 ft | Depth 3 ft | Depth 3.5 ft |
6-inch | 0.03 yd³ | 0.04 yd³ | 0.05 yd³ | 0.06 yd³ |
8-inch | 0.05 yd³ | 0.06 yd³ | 0.07 yd³ | 0.09 yd³ |
10-inch | 0.07 yd³ | 0.09 yd³ | 0.11 yd³ | 0.13 yd³ |
12-inch | 0.10 yd³ | 0.13 yd³ | 0.15 yd³ | 0.18 yd³ |
18-inch | 0.22 yd³ | 0.28 yd³ | 0.33 yd³ | 0.38 yd³ |
Concrete Required Based on Number of Posts
Diameter × 3 ft Deep Holes (Common Fence Post)
Number of Posts | Concrete Needed |
5 posts | 0.35 yd³ |
10 posts | 0.70 yd³ |
15 posts | 1.05 yd³ |
20 posts | 1.40 yd³ |
30 posts | 2.10 yd³ |
50 posts | 3.50 yd³ |
Note: Orders above 3 yd³ may require a ready-mix truck in Florida.
Diameter × 3 ft Deep Holes (Deck/Structural Posts)
Number of Posts | Concrete Needed |
4 posts | 0.60 yd³ |
6 posts | 0.90 yd³ |
8 posts | 1.20 yd³ |
10 posts | 1.50 yd³ |
15 posts | 2.25 yd³ |
20 posts | 3.00 yd³ |
At 3 cubic yards or more, a pump truck or direct chute placement becomes more efficient.
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Diameter × 4 ft Deep Holes (Commercial, Bollard, or Structural Foundation)
Number of Posts | Concrete Needed |
2 posts | 0.76 yd³ |
4 posts | 1.52 yd³ |
6 posts | 2.28 yd³ |
8 posts | 3.04 yd³ |
10 posts | 3.80 yd³ |
These types of projects are often engineered and permitted, especially in coastal zones.
Bagged Concrete Comparison (Approximate Equivalent)
Hole Size | Bags Needed Per Hole (80 lb bags) |
Small mailbox/6″ hole | 1–1.5 bags |
Standard 8″ fence post | 2–3 bags |
10″ gate or steel post | 3–4.5 bags |
12″ structural post | 4–6.5 bags |
18″ commercial footing | 10–18 bags |
Bag mix becomes inefficient when:
✔ Over 15 holes
✔ Required PSI exceeds 3,500
✔ Soil conditions demand fast setting
✔ Inspection requires certified concrete batch ticket
Real Florida Examples (Fence, Deck, & Gate)
Concrete needs can vary even when the number of posts is the same — because structure type, spacing, and code requirements change the diameter and depth of each hole. Below are real-world examples based on common Florida installations. These demonstrate how estimating works beyond theory and into actual field scenarios.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, this level of detail is included in every estimate to ensure accuracy before ordering materials.
Residential Wooden Fence (Standard 8" Diameter × 30" Depth)
Project:
- 20 fence posts
- Soil type: sandy
- Wind zone: standard inland FL
Step-by-step:
Item | Value |
Volume per hole | 0.07 yd³ |
Number of holes | 20 |
Total volume | 20 × 0.07 = 1.40 yd³ |
Waste allowance (10%) | +0.14 yd³ |
Concrete needed | ≈ 1.54 cubic yards |
Because this exceeds bag efficiency, a short-load ready-mix truck is recommended.
Deck Posts (12" Diameter × 36" Depth)
Project:
- 6 structural deck footings
- Location: coastal county (extra depth recommended)
Item | Value |
Volume per hole | 0.15 yd³ |
Quantity | 6 |
Total | 0.90 yd³ |
Waste (12%) | +0.11 yd³ |
Total order | ≈ 1.01 cubic yards |
Because inspections are required, ready-mix with batch tickets is necessary.
Steel Gate Posts (10" Diameter × 40" Depth)
Project:
- 2 heavy gate hinge posts
- Reinforced with gravel bottom and steel sleeves
Item | Volume |
Volume per hole | 0.13 yd³ |
x 2 posts | 0.26 yd³ |
Waste (10%) | +0.03 yd³ |
Total needed | 0.29 yd³ |
Bag mix is acceptable (approx. 13–15 bags).
Bagged Concrete vs Ready-Mix vs Rapid-Set Mix: Which Is Best?
Choosing the right type of concrete for post hole installation depends on project size, strength requirements, environmental exposure, and installation method. Each concrete option has benefits and limitations, especially in Florida, where humidity, weather conditions, and wind resistance play a major role.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we consider these variables before recommending the most cost-efficient and code-appropriate concrete type for each project.
1. Bagged Concrete (Dry or Wet Mix)
Bagged concrete is widely available and commonly used for smaller projects.
Best For:
- Small repairs
- Mailbox posts
- Short fence runs
- DIY projects under 1 cubic yard
Advantages:
- No minimum order
- Easy to transport
- Affordable for small quantities
Limitations:
- Labor intensive for more than 15–20 posts
- Harder to achieve uniform PSI
- Slower for commercial or heavy structures
Cost Range:
$4.50 – $11.00 per bag (Florida pricing) depending on PSI and brand.
2. Ready-Mix Concrete (Delivered by Truck)
Ready-mix is ideal for medium to large jobs, structural installations, and code-regulated projects.
Best For:
- Fences over 20 posts
- Decks, pergolas, gate posts
- Screen enclosures and bollards
- Commercial, structural, or inspected work
Advantages:
- Consistent strength and batching
- Faster placement
- Required for permit-regulated projects
- Efficient for large post counts
Limitations:
- Minimum load and short load fees apply
- Requires scheduling and site access
- May require pump truck
Cost Range:
$145 – $325 per cubic yard depending on PSI and additives.
3. Rapid-Set or Fast-Setting Concrete
Used when time or stability is critical — especially in humid or coastal areas.
Best For:
- Wind-exposed fence lines
- Coastal installations
- Posts needing same-day use
- Jobs requiring fast curing
Advantages:
- Begins setting in 10–30 minutes
- Reduces bracing requirements
- Ideal for Florida weather and soil washout
Advantages:
- Begins setting in 10–30 minutes
- Reduces bracing requirements
- Ideal for Florida weather and soil washout
Limitations:
- Higher material cost
- Not ideal for large pours
- Must be installed quickly
Cost Range:
$7.50 – $18.00 per bag.
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Cost Tables & Quick Estimation Guides for Florida Pricing
Once the concrete volume is known, the next step is estimating total project cost. Post hole installation involves more than the concrete itself — equipment, delivery, labor, pump trucks, additives, and waste allowance all affect the final price.
To make budgeting easier, the tables below provide Florida-based cost ranges commonly used in estimating. These numbers help homeowners, contractors, and builders understand realistic project expectations before ordering materials or hiring labor.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we use updated Florida supplier pricing and real market data so estimates are accurate for the region, not based on generalized national averages.
Concrete Type Cost Breakdown
Concrete Type | Cost per Unit (Florida Pricing) |
Bagged mix (80 lb bags) | $7.50 – $11.00 each |
Bagged rapid-set concrete | $9.50 – $18.00 each |
Ready-mix (standard) | $145 – $250 per cubic yard |
Marine-grade or fiber-reinforced | $185 – $350+ per cubic yard |
Short-load fee (if ordering <3 yards) | $100 – $350 extra |
Pricing may vary by county and supplier fuel charges.
Equipment & Placement Cost Guide
Item | Cost Range |
Manual post hole digger rental | $15 – $30/day |
Gas-powered auger rental | $65 – $180/day |
Skid steer or tractor auger service | $45 – $95 per hole |
Line pump truck | $550 – $1,100 per job |
Boom pump truck | $950 – $2,300 per job |
Delivery fees (fuel/environmental) | $25 – $85 per load |
Pump trucks are typically used for:
- Commercial posts
- Coastal zones
- Subdivisions with limited access
- Structural installations
Cost per Post by Concrete Volume
Concrete Volume per Hole | Approx. Installed Cost |
0.03–0.05 yd³ (small post) | $10 – $40 |
0.07–0.11 yd³ (common fencing) | $25 – $95 |
0.15–0.25 yd³ (deck/gate posts) | $90 – $350 |
0.30–0.50 yd³ (signs/bollards) | $200 – $950+ |
Total Installed Cost Based on Project Size
Project Size | Estimated Installed Cost Range |
Small DIY (1–4 posts) | $50 – $300 |
10–20 standard fence posts | $900 – $3,200 |
30–50 post fence line | $3,000 – $6,800 |
Structural or heavy-duty project (4–12 posts) | $900 – $6,500 |
Commercial or code-regulated project | $3,500 – $25,000+ |
These ranges help with early budgeting, but final numbers depend on:
- Post spacing
- Soil condition
- Reinforcement needs
- Concrete type
- Labor and access
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Question Answer
Frequently Asked Question
To calculate concrete volume, use the formula:
Volume = 3.14 × r² × depth (in feet).
After calculating cubic feet, divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards.
Accurate calculation requires knowing the hole diameter, depth, post embedment, and adding 10–12% waste. Using a Post Hole Concrete Estimator ensures you don’t under-order or over-order concrete.
Post hole dimensions depend on the type of structure, soil condition, and Florida building codes.
General rules:
Depth: 1/3 to 1/2 of the post height above ground
Diameter: 2–3× the post width
Examples:4×4 fence post → 8"–12" diameter
Deck/pergola posts → 12"–24" diameter
Structural columns → 18"–30"+
Deep or wider holes are required in Florida due to sandy soil and wind load.
Typical concrete requirements:
8" diameter × 3 ft deep: ~0.07 yd³ per hole
12" diameter × 3 ft deep: ~0.15 yd³ per hole
18" diameter × 4 ft deep: ~0.38 yd³ per hole
Larger or engineered structures require more volume. An estimator helps compute exact values based on depth, diameter, and regional code requirements.
Choose based on project size:
Bagged concrete → Good for small jobs (1–10 holes), mailboxes, light fences.
Ready-mix concrete → Best for 15+ holes, structural posts, decks, pergolas, commercial installations, or when inspections are required.
Ready-mix also provides consistent PSI strength and faster placement, especially in Florida's humid climate.
Concrete strength varies by application:
2,500 PSI → small posts, mailboxes
3,000 PSI → typical fence posts
3,500 PSI → decks, pergolas, gate posts
4,000 PSI+ → structural, coastal, or high wind zones (HVHZ)
Florida’s weather and wind exposure often require higher PSI mixes for stability.
Costs depend on concrete type, depth, diameter, labor, and access.
Typical ranges:
Bagged mix: $4.50–$11 per bag
Ready-mix: $145–$325 per cubic yard
Labor: $25–$160 per post (residential), $180–$950+ (structural)
Additional costs may include auger rental, pump truck, reinforcement, or inspection fees.
A Post Hole Concrete Estimator helps determine total material cost and avoid overspending.
Comprehensive Trade-Specific Estimates
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we offer detailed cost estimates across all major trades, ensuring no part of your project is overlooked. From the foundation to the finishing touches, our trade-specific estimates provide you with a complete and accurate breakdown of costs for any type of construction project.
Our Simple Process to Get Your Estimate
01
Upload Plans
Submit your project plans, blueprints, or relevant documents through our online form or via email.
02
Receive Quotation
We’ll review your project details and send you a quote based on your scope and requirements.
03
Confirmation
Confirm the details and finalize any adjustments to ensure the estimate meets your project needs.
04
Get Estimate
Receive your detailed, trade-specific estimate within 1-2 business days, ready for your project execution.
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