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How to Install a Tubular Fence: DIY or Professional Installation?

Introduction: DIY or Professional Tubular Fence Installation?

Installing a tubular fence seems straightforward enough. Pre-made panels, some posts, a bit of concrete—how hard can it be? The truth is, getting it right determines whether your fence lasts 15 years or 50+. Homeowners deciding between DIY and hiring pros should consider three key factors: compliance needs (like pool fencing), the difficulty of the terrain, and a true evaluation of their own skills.

What Is Tubular Fencing?

Tubular fencing uses vertical hollow metal tubes (called pickets) welded to horizontal rails. These come as pre-assembled panels that you secure to posts. The "tubular" part refers to the hollow sections rather than solid bars, which keeps things lighter while still being strong.

You've got two main material choices in Australia: aluminium and steel.

  • Aluminium is naturally rust-resistant because it contains no iron. It's lighter to handle, needs minimal maintenance, and can last 50+ years with just the occasional wash. This makes it brilliant for coastal areas or anywhere near salt water.
  • Steel is strong and rigid. That’s why it’s the top choice for security applications. With proper galvanisation, powder coating, and regular maintenance, steel tubular fencing can last over 20 to 30 years.

You can choose from different styles:

  • Flat-top for a clean, modern look. This is popular around pools.
  • Spear-top with pointed finials to stop climbing.
  • Loop-top with decorative curves, which is safe for kids.

The DIY Tubular Fence Installation Process

If you're going the DIY route, here's what you're signing up for.

Before touching a shovel, confirm your exact property boundaries using survey documents. Building on your neighbour's property means costly removal. Contact Before You Dig Australia (1100) to find underground services. Hitting utilities is risky and may lead to fines.

For post holes, the one-third rule applies: one-third of the total post height goes underground. That means digging to 600mm depth and at least 200mm diameter. Space your posts according to panel width, typically 2400mm between centres.

When setting posts in concrete, do the following:

  • Add gravel at the bottom for drainage.
  • Use a spirit level to check the posts on all sides.
  • Align them with your string line.

With rapid-set concrete, you can remove bracing after an hour, but wait at least 24 hours before attaching panels. After the posts cure overnight, attach the rail brackets. Then, position the panels and tek-screw everything in place.

How Long Does Tubular Fence Installation Take?

Here's where reality sets in. A professional team can knock out 10-20 metres in a day. The same job will take two DIYers one to two full weekends. For 40-60 metres, professionals need 2-3 days while DIYers are looking at 3-4 weekends.

Rocky or clay soil extends this dramatically—manual digging can take 30-60 minutes per hole. Sloped terrain, tight access and gate complexity add more time again.

DIY vs Professional Installation Costs

This is usually why people consider DIY in the first place.

For a 30-metre tubular fence, DIY material costs typically run $3,450–$5,150. Professional installation for the same project costs $6,000–$9,000. That's potential savings of $2,500–$4,000, roughly 40-50%.

But DIYers commonly underestimate total costs. Tool hire alone can add up—an auger runs $150–$200 per day, concrete mixer $100 per day.

Next, consider these costs:

  • Old fence removal: $50–$100 per cubic metre or skip bin hire.
  • Permit fees: $100–$500+, depending on the council.
  • Delivery charges: $50–$150.
  • Survey costs for unclear boundaries: $200–$500.

The most expensive oversight is mistake correction. Incorrectly set posts that are misaligned, at the wrong depth, or improperly spaced may need to be removed and replaced. This can end up costing more than professional installation would have in the first place.

When Professional Tubular Fence Installation Makes Sense

Pool fencing is the big one. Professional installers ensure fencing meets AS 1926.1 standards. They handle council regulations, permit applications, and coordinate compliance inspections. You must get professional certification for pool fencing, even if you install it yourself. DIY certification isn’t allowed.

The stakes are high here. Gates should open away from pools. Self-closing hinges are required. The spacing between vertical bars cannot be more than 100mm. Also, non-climbable zones must be kept. Get any of this wrong and you're redoing the work at full cost.

Difficult terrain is another strong argument for professionals. Sloped blocks, rocky soil, and tight access really benefit from expert techniques and tools. Post-hole augers and concrete mixers help DIYers dig faster. Without these tools, the job would take much longer.

In the Albury-Wodonga region, professionals know that NSW (Albury) and Victoria (Wodonga) have different rules. Various registration bodies, inspection cycles, and certifier requirements exist. And all in the same urban area.

Professional work also comes with guarantees. Reputable contractors offer workmanship warranties that last 1 to 5 years, and some even provide lifetime coverage. Additionally, manufacturer material warranties typically range from 10 to 20 years.

Seven Common DIY Tubular Fence Mistakes

Common problems include:

  1. Not checking vertical alignment on all four sides of posts.
  2. Insufficient concrete depth (less than the one-third rule).
  3. Ignoring slope assessment.
  4. Failing to comply with pool fencing regulations.
  5. Improper post spacing that doesn’t match panel width.
  6. Skipping Dial Before You Dig.
  7. Rushing concrete curing.

Making the Right Choice: DIY or Hire a Professional?

DIY is great when:

  • The terrain is flat and easy to reach.
  • Fence runs are straight.
  • It’s not for pool boundaries.
  • You have some construction skills and helpers.
  • Ground conditions make digging easy.

Professional installation is the smarter choice if:

  • Pool fencing compliance is needed.
  • The terrain is sloped or uneven.
  • The soil is rocky or heavy clay.
  • Access is restricted.
  • Gates require automation.
  • You lack construction experience.
  • Warranty protection is important.

DIY savings of 30-50% can vanish fast if posts need re-setting or fail inspection. For pool fencing, professional installation is a must. Even DIY barriers need a pro's certification.

Final Tips for a Long Lasting Tubular Fence

No matter what approach you take, choose Australian-made products with the right certifications. Follow the one-third rule for post depth. Also, don’t rush concrete curing times. These steps will ensure your tubular fence lasts for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tubular fencing hard to install yourself?
It looks simple, but accuracy matters. Post depth, spacing and alignment all affect how long the fence lasts. DIY is doable on flat, easy sites if you have basic skills.

How deep do tubular fence posts need to be?
A good rule is one third of the post height in the ground. For most fences, that means around 600mm deep with concrete for stability.

How long does DIY installation really take?
Expect one to two full weekends for 20 to 30 metres. Rocky soil, slopes or gates can easily double the time.

Is aluminium or steel better for tubular fencing?
Aluminium suits coastal and low maintenance areas and can last 50 years or more. Steel is stronger and better for security, but needs proper coating and upkeep.

Can I install my own pool fence in Australia?
You can install it yourself, but it must be professionally certified. DIY certification is not allowed, and failing inspection means redoing the work.

What are the biggest DIY mistakes people make?
Shallow post holes, uneven alignment, incorrect spacing and rushing concrete curing are the most common and costly errors.

Is DIY really cheaper than hiring a professional?
It can save 30 to 50 percent on paper, but tool hire, permits and fixing mistakes often reduce or wipe out those savings.

When should I definitely hire a professional installer?
If the fence is for a pool, on sloped or rocky ground, or needs automated gates, professional installation is usually the smarter and safer option.

Do professional fence installers offer warranties?
Yes. Most provide workmanship warranties from one to five years, plus manufacturer warranties on materials.

How long should a properly installed tubular fence last?
With correct installation and quality materials, aluminium can last 50 years plus, while well maintained steel fencing typically lasts 20 to 30 years or more.

Callum Gracie
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