These Rustic Chestnut Posts are approximately 1.8m long by 225mm diameter
Available in both:
4 Mortice for 2 cleft rails
6 Mortice for 3 cleft rails
For homeowners and landowners seeking a fencing company in Kent to provide a truly authentic, heritage look, Rustic Cleft Posts are the ultimate choice. These posts are synonymous with the traditional Kentish countryside, particularly throughout the Weald and the North Downs, where they have been used for centuries.
Unlike sawn or machine-rounded timber, cleft posts are split along the natural grain of the wood, offering unmatched character and durability.
What are Rustic Cleft Posts?
Cleft posts are typically made from Sweet Chestnut, a hardwood that is native to the woodlands of Kent and Sussex. Instead of being cut by a saw, the logs are "cleft" (split) using a mallet and wedge.
Why They Are a Kentish Staple
Natural Durability: Sweet Chestnut is rich in natural tannins, which act as a built-in preservative. This means cleft posts are naturally resistant to rot and insect attack without the need for chemical pressure treatment.
Superior Strength: Because the wood is split along its natural grain rather than across it, the structural fibers remain intact. This makes a cleft post significantly stronger and more flexible than a sawn post of the same size.
Hand-Finished Aesthetic: No two posts are identical. They offer a rugged, silver-ageing finish that is perfect for traditional cottages, orchards, and rural boundaries in areas like Cranbrook, Goudhurst, and Tenterden.
Primary Usages in Kent Fencing
Rustic Cleft Posts are the primary component for two specific types of traditional fencing:
Cleft Post and Rail: Large cleft posts are morticed (holed) to take triangular cleft rails. This creates a formidable, nail-free boundary for livestock or large gardens.
Chestnut Pale Fencing: Smaller cleft posts serve as the "main stays" for chestnut wire-bound fencing, providing a sturdy anchor for the rolls of pales.
Heritage Restoration: They are the "go-to" for National Trust properties and historical sites across Kent to maintain architectural accuracy.
