How to Install a Steel Fence Post in Winter

If possible, wait for warmer weather before building a fence.

The biggest challenge regarding the installation of a steel fence post in winter is frozen ground. The remedy to this challenge is finding a way to thaw the ground enough to be able to pound the post in. If the steel post is to be set in concrete, then the ground will need to be maintained at a temperature above freezing to allow the concrete to set properly. A tarp specially designed for the curing of concrete in cold weather should be used.

Things You'll Need

• Firewood
• Gasoline
• Matches
• Post hole pounder
• Shovel
• Level
• Ready-mix concrete
• Water
• 5-gallon bucket
• Cold weather concrete-curing tarp

Instructions

Using a Post Hole Pounder

1. Pile several pieces of firewood over the area of ground designated for the fence post installation. Pour two cups of gasoline on the wood.

2. Stand at a safe distance from the wood. Strike a match and toss it toward the wood pile. Allow the wood to burn down to ashes. This will thaw the earth beneath the fire.

3. Place the base of the steel fence post on the spot of installation. Put the post hole pounder over the upper end of the post. Pound the post into the ground until the desired depth is met.

Digging a Hole and Pouring Concrete

1. Follow the steps in Section 1 to thaw the ground where the post is to be installed. Dig a hole with a shovel sufficient in depth and width to accommodate the concrete and the post.

2. Mix the ready-mix concrete with water in a 5-gallon bucket, following the mixing directions on the bag's label. Set the steel post into the ground and hold it upright. Place a level horizontally on top of the post to get the post level.

3. Pour the concrete around the steel post until the hole is full. Lay the cold weather concrete-curing tarp over the hole and surrounding area. The heat generated by the fire will remain in the ground long enough to cure the concrete. Remove the tarp when the concrete has cured, and cover the hole with the dirt that came out of it.

References

• University of Tennessee: Planning & Building Fences on the Farm; Michael J. Buschermohle, B. Wills, W. Warren Gill, Clyde D. Lane