If you have a damaged concrete fence post, you can either repair it or replace it. To repair the post, you can prop up the fence on all sides of the defective post and place blocks under the rails. Then, remove the padding to the bottom of the post. If there is a concrete base, you'll need to dig a new post hole right next to the old one and cut the old post an inch or two above the ground.
After removing the post, clean the hole and make sure the fence is plumb. If the entire fence post is only a year or two away from needing to be replaced, then it would make more sense to complete the replacement right away rather than repair it. DIYers will need to dig up to the concrete base, discovering it enough that the block can be dragged up and out of the ground. If you have an old wooden pole that is completely rotten and you can remove it along with all the debris, you can reuse the cement ball for a new pole. In the event that the concrete base is still strong, but the post has rotted or shrunk, you can drive shims into the existing concrete on all sides of the post.
Before replacing the post with another one, be sure to clear the hole of any remaining concrete or debris. Leave a few inches at the top of the soil hole if you want grass to grow around the pole, or fill it completely if you prefer to see the concrete base. Projects such as replacing fence posts and replacing concrete bases can be made much easier with the use of concrete tools, such as a manual concrete mixer. Before deciding whether to repair or replace a fence post, it's important to examine the post, damage, and any underlying causes that are affecting it. When using concrete tools, such as a manual concrete mixer, it is important to follow all instructions that are included for both the mixer and the concrete mix itself. Holding fences in good condition is an essential task that not only adds value to your property but also increases its security.
Over time, concrete shoes can crack or move, and failed concrete shoes are often difficult to repair. Therefore, if a fence post shows signs of damage, then it is imperative that any underlying cause be discovered and stopped or at least alleviated; otherwise, damage will continue even if repaired. Mixing concrete in a bucket or wheelbarrow and filling up holes with it is not too complicated. However, if repair is not completed thoroughly, same problem can quickly arise once again. Keeping this in mind, it is important to make sure that everything is done correctly for a successful repair or replacement of your fence posts.
