How to Install a Vinyl Fence Post Next to an Existing Post

Building a fence is necessary to encompass a yard or contain a pet or livestock. Over time a wooden fence post can rot and become an unstable link in a length of fence. Most fence posts used today are vinyl because they do not rot and there is no painting of them required. As wooden fence posts root, you can install a vinyl fence post right next to the old post. This prevents you from having to remeasure spans between posts and make for an easy reattachment of the old fences mesh covering.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fence-post digger Broom handle Level Saw

1. Dig a hole with a 3 inch greater diameter then the new vinyl post right next to the old fence post. The old fence post is good guide for digging the hole straight down.

2. Dig the hole 1.5 to 3 feet deep. Place the new vinyl post in the hole. Place the base of the new post against the old post. Pull the new post toward yourself, prying it against the old post. Stand the new vinyl post up straight and use the level to make sure it is perfectly level upright.

3. Scoop some dirt back in the hole. Use the broom handle to pack the dirt tightly around the new vinyl post. Keep scooping dirt back in the hole and tamping it tight with the broom handle.

4. Detach the fences woven wire or mesh cover from the old post and attach it to the new vinyl post.

5. Saw off the old post at ground level.