How To Remove Concreted Fence Posts?
Removing concreted fence posts can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and method, it is entirely manageable. The first step is to ensure you have the necessary equipment, which includes a shovel, a sledgehammer, a crowbar, a post hole digger, and potentially a saw or reciprocating saw if the post needs to be cut. Additionally, you might need protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. By preparing these tools in advance, you set yourself up for a smoother and safer process.
Begin by digging around the base of the concreted post with your shovel. You want to create enough space to expose the concrete footing fully. Depending on the size of the concrete base, this hole may need to be quite large and deep. This step requires patience and effort, as removing soil and debris effectively will make the subsequent steps easier. Once you have exposed the concrete, continue to clear out the surrounding soil to provide ample working space around the base.
Next, use the sledgehammer and crowbar to break up the concrete. Start by using the sledgehammer to strike the top and sides of the concrete base to create cracks and weaken the structure. If the concrete footing is particularly large or thick, this process may take some time and significant physical effort. After forming cracks, use the crowbar to pry loose pieces away from the post. This process might need to be repeated several times to break the concrete into manageable chunks that can be removed from the hole.
Once the concrete is sufficiently broken up and removed, the post itself can be tackled. If the post is still firmly embedded or if it is rotten and likely to break, you may need to use the saw to cut it down to ground level. For sturdier posts, a post hole digger can be used to loosen and extract the remaining portion from the ground. Carefully lift out the post and any remaining concrete fragments. Ensure the hole left behind is free of debris and ready for whatever your next project may be. Removing concreted fence posts is undoubtedly labour-intensive, but following these steps will help you accomplish it effectively.