Can I install and remove concrete fence posts on my own?

Installing and removing concrete fence posts is theoretically something you can do yourself. 

However, the process is physically demanding and reasonably difficult to achieve for the inexperienced individual. You also won’t be able to guarantee a high-quality result like you would by using a professional company. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to install and remove concrete posts yourself – and explore other options if you don’t fancy dabbling in DIY. 

How to remove fence posts from concrete 

• Usually, removal of a fence post from concrete will need to be completed before installation of a new fence post. To achieve this, dig around the base of the fence post and remove the concrete by hand. A bar, graft or concrete breaker is all that is needed for this task. To remove a post you would dig a hole in front or beside the existing post and break the concrete surrounding the post into the new hole using a breaker or a bar.
• Depending on the strength of the concrete you are breaking, you might find this to be a labour-intensive task. 
• By far, the easiest method is to employ the services of a fencing specialist who will remove the old fence posts, before installing a brand new fence complete with posts – saving you time and hassle. 

How to install concrete fence posts 

Installing concrete fence posts requires precision and can be a fairly laborious process, so it’s important to get each step right. As with any DIY project, the final result will largely depend on your personal ability, the materials you choose, and how you execute each step. 

Make sure you get wider advice and read concrete mix instructions carefully before starting the project, but the general process for installing a fence post in concrete is as follows: 

• Dig a hole to the required depth and width: The depth of a fence post is around 600mm or 2ft. The depth required to dig is usually one third of the overall fence post height and the diameter of the hole needs to be around three times the diameter of the post. An ordinary spade may not be suitable for this job. Instead, a narrow fencing graft is recommended. 
• Position properly: The posts need to be positioned properly, ensuring that there is enough space for the gravel boards to fit between each post. These measurements will depend entirely on the fence you’re building and the dimensions of the gravel boards. You may want to mark out the post positions using builders’ pegs. After installing your first post, offer up the gravel board (if using one) or the panel against the post giving you the location of the second post.
• Fill with concrete: Next comes the concrete. Lay the post in the hole holding it in place with stones or rocks in the hole, and check the level all round the post. Once in place, pour in dry fast-setting concrete halfway up the hole then add water. Take this time to check the levels again, making slight adjustments if needed. Once all levels and alignment is good, fill the rest of the hole with concrete.
• Allow to fully set: Once you’re confident the posts will hold firmly on their own, you need to leave the concrete to set fully as per the instructions. 
• Build the rest of the fence: Assuming you’re not just making do with fence posts, you can then continue with construction of the rest of the fence. 

If you’re not a professional, it’s very easy for things to go wrong during this process. As such, we’d always advise the easier option – so let’s explore this. 

Is there an easier option? 

DIY isn’t for everyone. And even the most accomplished DIYer may struggle to get the high-quality finish they’re looking for without professional help.

To save time, money and effort, and to guarantee a beautiful and precise finish, it’s always advisable to employ a professional such as Harrow Fencing to remove and install old fence posts. 

At Harrow Fencing, our all-in-one service means that we can remove old fence panels and posts, before supplying and neatly installing new fence posts and panels from our extensive range – rewarding you with a final result that you can be proud of. 

Enjoy an easy installation service from Harrow Fencing. With over 60 years’ experience as a leading fencing company for Harrow and Hillingdon, you can trust in a straightforward process and beautiful finish every time when coming to us. Discover more by getting in touch today.