Composite 3-Rail Start/End Post with Post Cap for Traditional Ranch Rail System (5 in. x 5 in. x 65 in. L)

Yes, our proprietary wheat-based composite formula can be cut just like wood using standard wood-cutting tools. Customize your traditional dog ear and square top pickets, modern horizontal fencing, modern and traditional ranch rail, and gardening products. However, NC Gates cannot be cut under any circumstance. Vertical Fences can only be modifited by professional contractors, as they have metal inserts that will need to be amended with professional tools - contact us for specific instructions on this if you need to do this.

Read our full guide for cutting pickets, modern horizontal fencing, modern and traditional ranch rail, and gardening products.

When cutting a fence panel or ranch rail down, make sure to cut all boards at the same place to avoid creating an uneven alignment. Once the panel is cut, you will also need to adjust the Top Cable Assembly, which helps keep the posts plumb and properly spaced. To do this, cut the top cable to the desired length and remove the top cable bracket at the end, as it will need to be replaced. You will need to purchase an aluminum ferrule and stop set to reattach the shortened cable, ensuring it functions correctly (we recommend this one: We recommend this ferrule: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-16-in-Aluminum-Ferrule-and-Stop-Set-43274/205883075). You can reattach it by hitting it with a hammer to crimp it back into place. Following these steps will help maintain proper spacing and stability during your fence installation.

*NC gates and vertical fencing cannot be cut.

Painting is not advisable. Our products come pre-finished with durable, lasting color and a textured, non-reflective surface. They’re designed to maintain their appearance without the need for painting, staining, or sealing—just occasional cleaning with soap and warm water.

NC products are highly water-resistant. The HDPE in our composite formula acts as a water shield, preventing moisture absorption and helping to maintain the integrity of the material, even in damp conditions. This makes our products an excellent choice for long-lasting durability in various weather conditions.

To maintain the appearance of your composite fence, clean it every 6 to 12 months or when necessary. Use mild dish soap with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt, debris, and stains. For stubborn stains, seasonal care tips and general maintenance advice, read our full care and cleaning guide here.

Our composite fence posts are designed to be securely buried underground for maximum stability. We recommend digging 12-inch diameter holes at least 26 inches deep to ensure proper support when burying posts 24 inches into the ground.

While it is possible to install the fence on a concrete surface using brackets, we do not recommend this method as it does not provide the same level of stability as burying the posts. Our products work within existing brackets in the market, including the RPBZ ZMAX Galvanized Retrofit Post Base for Double 2x4 Nominal Lumber.If brackets must be used, it is vital to screw the 5x5 post to the 4x4 bracket and then screw the U-post to the 5x5 post to create a more secure structure. Additionally, securing the fence to a house, wall, or corner structure will help reduce movement, as angles naturally provide reinforcement.

All necesary components (posts, boards, spacers - if semi-privacy or ranch rail - hardware) for one panel or one gate come with each purchased product. *Remember to buy accomanying 5x5 Commercial Grade Post (94 in.) to hang your gate from the fence. Buy posts here.

The 5x5 commercial-grade posts are essential for securely hanging the full-size, perimeter, and ranch rail gates to the modern fence systems. The correct installation method involves screwing the 5x5 posts and U-posts together, then burying them in the ground. The gate should be hung from the 5x5 posts to ensure stability. For extra strength and long-term structural integrity, we recommend inserting a 4x4 wooden post inside the 5x5 post and burying them together. This way, when you screw the gate latches and hinges, the screws will go into the wood, providing extra support. Without the 5x5 Commercial posts, the weight of the gate can cause sagging over time, both in the gate and the posts. Buy the post here.

No! Our patented U-Post system is designed for ultimate versatility, allowing you to use the same post for corners, line posts, and start/end posts with ease. This simplifies installation and reduces the number of different components needed.

Unlike the Modern Ranch Rail system, which uses the versatile U-Post that can be used as a corner, line, or start/end post, the Traditional Ranch Rail system is designed for more custom flexibility. It comes with 2 or 3-board routed 5x5 residential posts (64 in.) but does not have the same versatility as the U-Post. To properly complete your project and ensure structural integrity, you must purchase additional 5x5 corner and/or start/end posts. Without these, you will not be able to finish the installation of your fence. Buy traditional ranch rail posts here.

For gates, this is a firm no. Our gates are engineered for precise alignment: the first board is designed to maintain proper ground clearance, while the last board sits flush with the post and top cap for a clean, finished appearance. Modifying the spacers disrupts this balance and can lead to uneven board placement, improper ground clearance, and a misaligned top finish. Additionally, altering any part of the gate assembly will void the limited warranty.

As for the Semi-Privacy panels, Semi-Privacy perimeter panels, and Modern Ranch Rail panels, it is physically possible to adjust the board spacing, and some customers have done so. However, we do not recommend it. Changing the spacing will alter the intended design alignment of the boards and can impact the overall height and appearance of the fence.

Lastly, the Traditional Ranch Rail panels are not modifiable, as the rail positions are routed and fixed.

Across all fence styles and configurations, please note: any modifications will void the product’s limited warranty.

Slight bowing is a normal characteristic of composite fencing, primarily due to temperature changes and sun exposure. As the boards expand when exposed to heat and contract when temperatures cool, this natural behavior occurs, but it does not compromise the strength or durability of your fence. Our composite boards are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds, extreme heat, and cold, ensuring long-lasting performance. While the boards may experience minor bowing, the overall functionality and aesthetic of your fence remain intact, and it continues to deliver reliable protection and durability. Read NC's full Bowing Disclaimer here.