Fences and Gates - Galv Pipe for Steel Posts?
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mktbully
08-30-09, 10:02 PM
Any reason not to use a galvanized pipe used for plumbing for the fence post? is it pretty much the same stuff or is it too brittle or something?
GregsFence
08-31-09, 04:12 AM
I am just assuming you have some sort of easier access to plumbers pipe??
I may be wrong but I believe that plumbers pipe is measured on inside diameter... fencing post is measured on outside diameter. The loop caps, brace bands, tension bands and whatever else may not fit properly if you attempt to use plumbers pipe.
In regards to it being brittle... No. I would not believe that would be an issue.
In regards to the galvanizing process... I am pretty sure that the plumbers pipe would have a more thorough process of galvanization than your typical fence pipe. Certainly the plumbers pipe would be a much heavier pipe.
If you are still considering using plumbers pipe, consider not having a top rail. Use angle braces on the corners and pull a coil wire for the top... This would work, but it would also be a commercial grade of installation. I would not suggest this application for a front or side yard facing the curb appeal of your home.
Basically I would say my best suggestion would be to make sure all the fittings really fit properly before attempting to substitute one pipe for the other... If it does not match up, I would suggest not doing it . If it is close, weigh out the top rail and the coil wire. The bands may not fit but at least they can be bent to make it work... Loop caps do not bend.
On the flip note... If you are using 2" plumbers pipe maybe a
2 1/2" brace or tension band may work. Certainly it would not fit snugly , but it may work just enough.
Regardless the only way to do this job is the right way. But if you do have access to free plumbers pipe verses buying fence pipe affordability sometimes rules.
I hope this helped.
Good luck
Gregs Fence ~
I may be wrong but I believe that plumbers pipe is measured on inside diameter... fencing post is measured on outside diameter. The loop caps, brace bands, tension bands and whatever else may not fit properly if you attempt to use plumbers pipe.
In regards to it being brittle... No. I would not believe that would be an issue.
In regards to the galvanizing process... I am pretty sure that the plumbers pipe would have a more thorough process of galvanization than your typical fence pipe. Certainly the plumbers pipe would be a much heavier pipe.
If you are still considering using plumbers pipe, consider not having a top rail. Use angle braces on the corners and pull a coil wire for the top... This would work, but it would also be a commercial grade of installation. I would not suggest this application for a front or side yard facing the curb appeal of your home.
Basically I would say my best suggestion would be to make sure all the fittings really fit properly before attempting to substitute one pipe for the other... If it does not match up, I would suggest not doing it . If it is close, weigh out the top rail and the coil wire. The bands may not fit but at least they can be bent to make it work... Loop caps do not bend.
On the flip note... If you are using 2" plumbers pipe maybe a
2 1/2" brace or tension band may work. Certainly it would not fit snugly , but it may work just enough.
Regardless the only way to do this job is the right way. But if you do have access to free plumbers pipe verses buying fence pipe affordability sometimes rules.
I hope this helped.
Good luck
Gregs Fence ~
mktbully
08-31-09, 08:07 AM
Got it...thanks for the advice Greg!
lefty
08-31-09, 09:18 AM
additionally, galvanized plumbing pipe will cost about 3 to 4 times as much as fencing pipe. Additionally, all of the connections (i.e. installing the caps) are threaded, and there is no rust protection in the threads. (The galvanized coating is removed when the threads are cut.)