Best Fence Post Spikes for Sturdy Gardens: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Fencing Specialist
Installing a new fence or repairing a leaning one is a staple job for any property owner. However, the traditional method of digging deep holes and mixing concrete isn't always practical, especially if you are working quickly or dealing with an existing patio.
Fence post spikes and bolt-down shoes offer a faster solution, but they come with their own challenges. In York, where the wind can pick up and the ground shifts with the seasons, choosing cheap metal spikes often leads to leaning fences within a year.
In this review, I have analysed three different support options available this year: a budget-friendly bolt-down shoe for hard surfaces, a high-quality repair kit for salvaging rotting posts, and a complete spike kit for soft ground installation.
Live in York?
Struggling with a broken fence or need a new installation?
Get a free quote from our local team.
Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "'No Digging' Installation"
"The manufacturer suggests you simply hammer the spike straight into the lawn without any preparation."
In compacted or stony soil (common in York), hitting a rock will twist the spike instantly. Using a pilot bar to create a guide hole is essential for a plumb fence.
The Spec: "Rust Resistant Powder Coating"
"The red oxide or powder coating prevents rust indefinitely."
Hammering the spike often chips the coating. Once the steel is exposed to damp soil, rust is inevitable. I always recommend adding a layer of bitumen paint at the ground line for longevity.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Fence Post Spikes & Shoes, Bolt Down Holders, Easy Grip ~ 50/75/100mm Garden Timber Support Stakes (1, 75mm Driving Tool)
Just The Job Supplies
This option from Just The Job Supplies represents excellent value, particularly if you are looking for the bolt-down variety mentioned in their range. Designed to fix posts onto existing concrete or paved areas, it spares you the hassle of breaking ground.
The Good
- Very affordable option for securing posts
- Bolt-down design is ideal for patios and driveways where digging isn't possible
- Galvanised and powder coated for reasonable weather resistance
The Bad
- Fixing bolts for the ground are not included
- Basic finish may require maintenance after a few winters
Installer Tip:
If using the bolt-down shoe on a patio, ensure the surface is perfectly level. Use stainless steel washers under your ground bolts to prevent corrosion from staining your paving stones.
Priced at £10.86 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonGROWNEER 4PCS Timber Fence Post Repair Stakes Kit 75cm (29.5") Heavy Duty Fence Post Stakes
GROWNEER
When a fence post snaps at ground level due to rot, replacing the whole post and concrete foundation is a massive job. This heavy-duty repair kit from GROWNEER is a high-quality alternative, designed to reinforce damaged posts without the need for full excavation.
The Good
- Heavy-duty construction resists bending under pressure
- Cost-effective alternative to hiring a contractor for full replacement
- Sharp triangular tips drive easily into soil alongside the concrete mass
The Bad
- Requires two stakes per post for maximum stability
- Installation requires significant force if the ground is dry/hard
Installer Tip:
Drive these stakes in parallel to the fence line, tight against the rotting post. Once driven in, use coach screws to fix the metal stake to the sound timber above the rot line. This bridges the gap and restores rigidity.
Priced at £26.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon[FIXINGS DIRECT®] 75mm (3") Industrial Fence Post Spike Support 600mm Long Drive Down Post Spike (Includes Driving Tool) (1)
![[FIXINGS DIRECT®] 75mm (3") Industrial Fence Post Spike Support 600mm Long Drive Down Post Spike (Includes Driving Tool) (1)](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvtfcpphrizircbjoazjy.supabase.co%2Fstorage%2Fv1%2Fobject%2Fpublic%2Famazon-products%2Ffixings-direct-75mm-3-industrial-fence-post-spike-_B0B9P35WDN_1765407770736.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
FIXINGS DIRECT
The main problem with driving spikes is damaging the metal cup with your sledgehammer. FIXINGS DIRECT solves this by including a specific driving tool. This 600mm spike is a robust solution for soft ground installations where you want to avoid mixing concrete entirely.
The Good
- Includes driving tool to prevent damage during installation
- Twin grip bolted design ensures the post is held tight
- Red oxide coating offers good initial protection against fungi and water
The Bad
- 600mm length may struggle in very sandy soil (needs 750mm for that)
- Spike can twist if it hits a root or stone
Installer Tip:
Never use the timber post itself to drive the spike in—you will shatter the wood. Use the provided driving tool. Also, check the vertical level with a spirit level after every few strikes; once a spike starts going in crooked, it is very difficult to correct.
Priced at £15.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Are fence post spikes as good as concrete?
How do I stop the spike from twisting when hammering?
Can I use post spikes for a 6ft fence?
What size post spike do I need?
Why do my fence posts rot at the bottom?
Need Professional Timber Decking & Fencing?
Our team at DR Joinery specialises in Timber Decking & Fencing across York.
Get a free quote for professional installation.
View Our Timber Decking & Fencing Service