wrote in message
...
On Mon, 8 Dec 2008 08:45:03 -0800 (PST), RedDwarf
wrote:

I'm starting my new project, a 6 foot vinyl privacy fence. a lot of
online resources recommend putting gravel into the holes (6 inches
worth). Is this really necessary? i figured with a wood fence it
would
be to prevent rotting. But was wondering if placing them directly in
the concrete was bad... seeing as how they're vinyl. i'm in norfolk,
va. if climate is a factor.

I don't plan on putting 4x4s down the center of the posts, only at
the
gate.

also, any tips? I was planning on putting the corners in first, then
tying a string corner to corner - then staking out where the posts
should go. I was going to do dig all the holes, but do 2 posts/panel
at a time to reduce the risk of error. (instead of all the posts at
once, which i'm sure i'd screw up).

Thanks for the help everyone!

Gravel will give you a solid lock on the posts pretty quick if you
tamp it in as you go. Dirt probably will to, depending on what you
have for dirt. Just tamp it in tight while you backfill with a 2x2.

Sand works much better and moves to reseat during and after rains.