Need to remove and repair a fence post? Here's how.
Introduction
Here’s how to remove a rotten fence post quickly and easily with a shovel and sledge hammer, as well as how to set the replacement post so it's strong, sturdy and won’t rot again.
Tools Required
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Shovel
- Sledgehammer
Project step-by-step (5)
Step 1
Dig the Right Size Hole
- Dig a semicircular hole around one side of the concrete pier.
- Pro tip: Make sure your hole is the same depth as the concrete pier to ensure easier removal.
Step 2
Break Up the Concrete
- Use a sledgehammer to break up the concrete around the old post.
- Pro tip: Make the hole large enough to ensure you can get a good swing at all sides of the concrete pier.
Step 3
Remove the Old Post
- Break off half the concrete;
- Pro tip: Enlist a helper to lift the post out of the hole. Your back will thank you later!
Step 4
Remove Any Leftover Materials
- Clear out any chunks of concrete remaining in the hole;
- Pro tip: If the post breaks off during lifting, tie a rope around the pier to lift it out. If you need more privacy, fence toppers might be your solution. Learn how to remove wooden fence posts.
Step 5
Set a New Fence Post
- Pour concrete so it extends a few inches above the grass;
- Taper the edges to drain water away from the wood post. Find out if you can use expanding foam for setting fence posts.
- Pro tip: Burying the concrete below the surface may look nicer, but it’s a surefire way to accelerate wood rot. Here are a few tips on how to set a cedar fence post so it won’t rot.
