Replace Fence Post Without Removing Fence

Use a sledgehammer to break up the concrete around the old post.

Replace fence post without removing fence.

If the existing fence is on the neighbor s property you can not remove it without their approval. You could dig it out but that takes too long. To determine depth measure the old post from the top to where it set in the soil. Slide a 24 inch long 2x4 under the fence on each side of the rotted post.

To replace a wooden fence post start by disengaging the post fro the fence rails. When repairing a post remove the fencing and rails connected to it. Removing an old fence post can be a pain in the ass especially if the post has rotted and fallen off. Replacing a fence post may seem like a daunting task especially if concrete held the original post in place.

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. Dig as close to the old hole as possible exactly even with it. Dig out the concrete footer if there is one then set a new pressure treated post and backfill the hole with crushed gravel or concrete. Here s how to fix repair and replace broken fence posts and poles easily as long as things are thought ahead and you used the fence post socket system befo.

Make the hole large enough to ensure you. Once the repair is complete use new nails when replacing fencing and rails. Pull the fence section away from the rotted post. That s because fence posts are set in a concrete footing that is usually at least two feet deep in the ground.

Dig the new hole if you cut off the post. Thankfully the process is actually quite simple and knowing how to do it will allow you to replace anything from a single rotten beam to an entire fence. Enlarge the existing fence post hole with a post hole digger. Toss the soil and rotted wood onto a tarp for easy clean up.

Make the hole about 6 inches wider than the post on all sides. You can either remove the fencing with a pry bar or cut out the damaged section with a handsaw. You can however build a fence on your property right behind it if your neighbors are not on board with replacing the fence. Remove the rotted fence post and dig out any wood left in the fence post hole.

Subtract that from the length of the new post. The answer is the depth you need for the new.