How to Dig Post Holes in Winter
Fencing projects can be a year-round affair. In the Northern states, it is especially difficult to work with the ground during the winter. But with the right technique, frozen ground won't make your fencing project wait until spring. Digging post holes in winter will be much easier if you follow this procedure. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Insulating blanket (normally used for concrete)
- Flexible metal tubing (normally used for vents)
- Heat-resistant tape
- Circular metal clamp
- Propane or diesel jet type heater
- 3/8 inch metal rod 3 feet longer than post-hole depth
- Post-hole digger
Instructions
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Dig Post Holes in Winter
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1
Clean the area where the post hole will be dug so that it is free of flammable material.
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2
Cut a hole in the insulating blanket just large enough for the flexible metal tubing.
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3
Insert the tubing in the hole and secure it with heat-resistant tape.
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4
Attach the tubing to the heater with the circular metal clamp.
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5
Start the heater on the lowest setting, gradually increasing until it reaches operating temperature.
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6
Insert the metal rod in the ground to ensure it is thawed to the proper depth. Remove the insulating blanket once the rod reaches the desired post hole depth.
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7
Dig hole with the post-hole digger.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The insulating blanket comes with pertinent warnings clearly displayed. It is fairly safe, but still monitor it for any electrical malfunctions.
