When your paling fence is basically in good condition with only a slight lean and a couple of rotted posts, don’t replace the whole fence, just support the posts.

Dig a narrow, 600mm-deep hole in front of the rotted post. Order a 50mm-diameter pole that is at least 500mm longer than the fence post. Mark in two bolt holes so you can bolt the steel to the old fence post. Add a third hole 200mm up from the bottom for a cross bolt to anchor the steel in the concrete. Mark the hole centres with a centre punch, then drill holes with a 5mm bit, followed by a 10mm bit. Spray the holes with cold galvanising paint to protect the steel against rust.

Insert a bolt in the bottom hole with equal lengths either side of the pole; hammer it so it is bent at each end. Clamp pole to the timber post so it is slightly higher than the timber, to fit a 50mm cap on top. Feed a long 10mm auger bit through the holes in the steel and drill through the fence post. Secure with a bolt, washer, spring washer and a nut. Repeat for the bottom hole. Add cap on top.

Brace the fence posts so they are plumb (vertical). Pour one or two bags of rapid-setting or ordinary concrete into the holes, compact well and allow it to set overnight. Once it is dry and firm, you can remove the braces.