windpost

It is increasingly common for structural drawings and schedules to reference IG Windposts by name. Whether the specification calls for IG U Windposts, IG LP Windposts or IG DU Windposts, many contractors assume that only IG products can be used to remain compliant.

In reality, this is rarely the case. In most projects, IG Windposts are referenced as a benchmark for performance, not as a sole-source requirement. At Windpost.co.uk, we manufacture and supply windposts that are fully equivalent to IG Windposts, while offering a more cost-effective and flexible solution for site teams.

What does an IG Windpost specification actually require?

When an engineer specifies an IG U, LP or DU windpost, they are defining the type of windpost and its structural role, not necessarily mandating the IG brand itself. The key requirements are typically:

• Adequate resistance to lateral wind loads
• Suitable stiffness and deflection performance
• Compatibility with cavity wall construction
• Compliance with recognised UK standards

These requirements can be met by equivalent windposts from alternative manufacturers, provided the performance criteria are satisfied. This is exactly where Windpost.co.uk products offer a practical alternative to IG Windposts.

Direct equivalents to IG U, LP and DU Windposts

Windpost.co.uk supplies a full range of windposts designed to act as direct equivalents to the most commonly specified IG Windposts. Our windposts perform the same structural function as the corresponding IG Windpost, allowing contractors to meet the intent of the specification without unnecessary cost. To find an equivalent option, try our product chooser tool.

Equivalent performance without the IG price premium

IG Windposts are well known across the industry, but brand recognition often comes with a higher price tag. On many projects, that additional cost delivers no tangible benefit once performance requirements are met.

Windpost.co.uk windposts are engineered specifically to provide equivalent strength and performance to IG Windposts, while remaining competitively priced. For projects requiring multiple U, LP or DU windposts, the cost savings can be substantial — helping to protect margins without compromising structural integrity.

Reduced lead times compared to IG Windposts

Another common challenge with IG Windposts is lead time. Delays in sourcing specified IG products can quickly disrupt masonry programmes and create knock-on delays elsewhere on site.

Because Windpost.co.uk focuses solely on windposts, we are able to offer shorter lead times and reliable availability across our standard range. This makes our IG-equivalent windposts particularly attractive where programme certainty is critical.

Clear technical support, not just a catalogue

Switching from IG Windposts to an equivalent alternative should never feel like guesswork. At Windpost.co.uk, we provide straightforward technical guidance to ensure the selected windpost matches the performance requirements of the original IG specification.

If a drawing references an IG U, LP or DU Windpost, we can quickly confirm the appropriate Windpost.co.uk equivalent and supply the correct solution with confidence.

A sensible alternative to specified IG Windposts

Using Windpost.co.uk products in place of IG Windposts is not about cutting corners — it is about understanding specifications properly and selecting a product that delivers the same performance at better value.

With direct equivalents to IG U, LP and DU Windposts, competitive pricing, faster supply and practical technical support, Windpost.co.uk offers a smarter approach for contractors looking to meet specification requirements without overpaying for a brand name.

When structural engineers specify windposts for masonry support, certain product names tend to dominate drawings and schedules. Much like the way “Hoover” became shorthand for vacuum cleaners, Ancon windposts are often used as a generic reference point rather than the only viable solution. In practice, projects that reference Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 or Ancon WP3 frequently have far more flexibility than many contractors initially realise.

At Windposts.co.uk, we regularly support projects where Ancon windposts are named in the specification, but alternative products are both acceptable and advantageous. Our range of windposts is designed to provide like-for-like load bearing performance, while offering better value, shorter lead times and practical, human support throughout the ordering process.

Understanding why Ancon windposts are specified

Ancon WP1, WP2 and WP3 windposts are widely recognised within the construction industry. Over time, they have become a familiar reference for structural engineers when indicating the required performance of a windpost rather than mandating a single manufacturer. In many cases, the engineer’s primary concern is the load capacity, deflection limits and compliance with relevant standards, not the brand name itself.

This creates an opportunity for contractors and developers to explore equivalent windpost solutions that meet the same structural requirements without incurring unnecessary cost or delay.

Like-for-like alternatives to Ancon WP1, WP2 and WP3

Windposts.co.uk supplies windposts that match the load bearing capabilities typically associated with Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 and Ancon WP3 applications. Our products are engineered to perform on a like-for-like basis, making them suitable alternatives for a wide range of residential, commercial and industrial builds.

Because we focus exclusively on windposts, our range is streamlined, readily available and designed with real site conditions in mind. This allows us to offer high-performing alternatives that are often significantly cheaper than branded equivalents, without compromising on structural integrity or compliance.

Faster supply and better value

One of the most common challenges on site is waiting for components to arrive. Delays in windpost delivery can hold up brickwork, disrupt programmes and increase labour costs. At Windposts.co.uk, 97 percent of orders are shipped the same day they are placed, helping you keep projects moving and avoid unnecessary downtime.

Alongside faster despatch, our windposts represent better value. By offering alternatives to Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 and Ancon WP3, we help contractors reduce material costs while still meeting specification requirements and engineer expectations.

Straightforward advice from real people

Not every project comes with perfect drawings or complete information. If you are unsure which windpost is required, or whether an alternative to Ancon WP1, WP2 or WP3 is appropriate, our team is available to help. You will speak to real people with practical experience, not a call centre or automated system.

We regularly assist customers in interpreting specifications, confirming load requirements and selecting the correct windpost for their build. This hands-on support can be invaluable, particularly when time is tight or project details evolve.

A practical alternative to default specifications

Choosing an alternative to Ancon windposts does not mean taking a risk. It means understanding what the specification is actually asking for and selecting a product that meets those requirements more efficiently. With like-for-like performance, competitive pricing, same-day shipping and expert support, Windposts.co.uk provides a compelling alternative for projects referencing Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 and Ancon WP3.

If your next project specifies Ancon windposts, it is worth considering whether a more cost-effective and readily available solution could deliver the same structural performance with fewer headaches.

For builders and contractors, seeing Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 or Ancon WP3 listed on a structural drawing is a familiar scenario. In many cases, the immediate response is to source exactly what is named, even when time, cost and availability are under pressure. However, this approach can overlook practical alternatives that deliver the same performance with fewer complications.

Understanding what the specification is actually asking for can give contractors more flexibility and control.

When a brand name is not the full story

Although Ancon windposts are commonly specified, they are often used as a benchmark rather than a strict requirement. Structural engineers typically want to ensure the windpost provides adequate load bearing capacity and stiffness for the masonry it supports.

This means that where a product offers like-for-like performance to Ancon WP1, WP2 or WP3, it may be entirely suitable for the application, subject to standard approval processes. Treating brand names as performance indicators rather than fixed instructions can open the door to more efficient procurement.

Common issues contractors face with specified windposts

One of the most frequent challenges is lead time. Waiting for specified Ancon windposts to be manufactured or delivered can delay brickwork and disrupt sequencing on site. Cost is another factor, particularly where budgets are tight and material prices are under scrutiny.

In some cases, contractors are also left unsure about what to order if drawings are incomplete or site conditions differ from the original design.

Practical alternatives that keep projects moving

Windposts.co.uk provides alternatives to Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 and Ancon WP3 that are designed to meet the same structural requirements. These windposts offer equivalent load bearing capability and are suitable for the same types of construction scenarios.

With 97 percent of orders shipped the same day, contractors benefit from faster access to materials and greater certainty around programme planning. Lower costs also help protect margins without compromising on quality or compliance.

Support when specifications are unclear

Contractors do not always have the time to decipher complex specifications or chase multiple parties for clarification. Windposts.co.uk offers direct access to knowledgeable staff who understand windpost applications and can provide clear, practical guidance.

If you are unsure what is required, or whether an alternative to Ancon WP1, WP2 or WP3 is appropriate, you can speak to a real person who can help identify the correct solution quickly.

A more flexible approach to specified windposts

For contractors, the key is recognising that a named product does not always mean a single-source solution. By focusing on performance requirements rather than brand names, it is possible to source windposts that are quicker to deliver, more cost-effective and fully fit for purpose.

Windposts.co.uk supports this approach by offering reliable alternatives to Ancon WP1, Ancon WP2 and Ancon WP3, backed by fast despatch and practical, human support. This makes it easier to keep projects on track and reduce unnecessary friction during procurement.

OK, so what is the correct terminology? Ask different people - and you'll get different answers. The word 'windposts' seems to be the more popular and we would say is probably more accepted that other variations. We are specialists when it comes to windposts, yet simply posing the simple question to our office staff inspired a great debate which is still on-going today. Let's just say, the jury is still out heh? Searching online for the correct term just throws more fuel on the fire - both 'wind posts' and 'wind-posts' are out there in abundance (not helping Mr Google!). It shouldn't be a problem, right? Well actually, it does matter ... or so says our website guys.

"Searching for 'wind posts' when we are describing our product as being 'windposts' causes relevency problems within the search engines"
- Website guy

Just to be clear, they are all the same thing. No matter how you spell it, 'wind-post', wind post' or 'windpost' - you'll get the same product. Hmmm, maybe we should take another look at our company name, does WP|WindPost still do the job we want? Food for thought!

Windposts are used in the construction and building trades generally to provide additional support to masonry walls. They increase lateral stability and protect masonry panelling against horizontal forces such as strong winds or even large crowds.