Remove Fence Post With Jack (Pro Tips For Broken Underground Wood)

Removing a stubborn fence post, especially one that’s broken off underground and seemingly cemented in place, is a task many homeowners and even seasoned professionals dread. It’s a job that can quickly turn frustrating, leading to backaches and broken tools. But fear not! With the right techniques and a little know-how, even the most challenging fence post removal can be tackled efficiently and safely. I’ve pulled my fair share of posts over the years, from replacing rotting sections of my own property fence to helping neighbors with their projects. I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that I’m eager to share.

This guide focuses on using a jack to extract those deeply rooted and often broken fence posts. We’ll cover everything from assessing the situation to the final removal, including pro tips for dealing with those pesky underground remnants. I’ll also sprinkle in some personal anecdotes and insights I’ve gained from my experiences in woodworking and general property maintenance.

Understanding the Challenge: Why Fence Post Removal is Difficult

Before diving into the how-to, it’s important to understand why removing fence posts can be so difficult. Several factors contribute:

Soil Compaction: Over time, the soil around the post compacts, creating a tight grip that resists upward movement.
Root Growth: Tree and shrub roots can intertwine with the post, further anchoring it in place.
Concrete Setting: Many posts are set in concrete, which provides a formidable barrier.
Post Decay: In the case of wood posts, decay can weaken the post, making it more likely to break during removal attempts. This is particularly true for sections below ground that are constantly exposed to moisture and soil organisms.
Underground Breaks: When a post breaks below ground, you lose the leverage you would normally have to pull it out. You’re left with a stub that’s often difficult to grip.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: A Quick Note

While this guide primarily deals with removing existing posts, understanding the difference between green and seasoned wood is crucial for any wood-related project.

Green Wood: This is freshly cut wood with high moisture content. It’s easier to work with initially but prone to warping and cracking as it dries.
Seasoned Wood: This is wood that has been dried to reduce its moisture content. It’s more stable and less likely to warp or crack.

Knowing this distinction is important when choosing replacement posts. Seasoned wood is generally preferred for its stability and longevity.

Assessing the Situation: The First Step to Success

Before grabbing any tools, take a moment to assess the situation. This will help you determine the best approach and avoid potential problems.

Identify the Post Type: Is it wood, metal, or composite? Is it set in concrete?
Assess the Break: How far below ground is the break? Is the remaining stub rotten or solid?
Check for Obstacles: Are there any underground utilities, rocks, or other obstructions that might interfere with the removal process? Call 811 before you dig!
Consider the Soil Type: Is the soil sandy, clayey, or rocky? This will affect how tightly the post is held in place.

My Experience with Rocky Soil

I once had to remove a series of fence posts in an area with extremely rocky soil. I quickly realized that simply pulling on the posts wasn’t going to work. The rocks were creating a death grip. I ended up having to dig around each post to loosen the soil and remove the larger rocks before I could even attempt to lift them. It was a time-consuming process, but it saved me from breaking my tools and my back.

Tools You’ll Need: Essential and Optional

Having the right tools is essential for efficient and safe fence post removal. Here’s a list of what I recommend:

High-Lift Jack (Farm Jack): This is the workhorse of the operation. A high-lift jack provides the leverage needed to lift even the most stubborn posts. Look for one with a lifting capacity of at least 3 tons.
Chain or Cable: A sturdy chain or cable is needed to connect the jack to the post. Choose one with a high working load limit.
Post Puller Attachment (Optional but Recommended): These attachments are designed to grip the post securely, making the pulling process easier and more efficient. Many different types are available, designed for different post sizes and shapes.
Shovel or Post Hole Digger: For digging around the post to loosen the soil.
Pickaxe or Mattock: For breaking up hard soil or concrete.
Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall) with Metal-Cutting Blade: For cutting metal posts or rebar in concrete.
Hammer and Chisel: For breaking up concrete around the post.
Gloves: To protect your hands.
Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
Work Boots: To protect your feet.
Leverage Bar/Pry Bar: Useful for prying and wiggling the post.
Auger or Post Hole Digger Attachment for Drill (Optional): To make digging around the post easier.

Chainsaw Considerations

While a chainsaw isn’t directly used for pulling the post, it might be useful if you need to cut away a section of the broken post to create a better attachment point for the chain or cable. If you use a chainsaw, always prioritize safety.

Chainsaw Size: A smaller chainsaw (14-16 inch bar) is sufficient for this type of work.
Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet with a face shield, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps.
Sharp Chain: A sharp chain will make the cutting process easier and safer.

Step-by-Step Guide: Removing the Fence Post with a Jack

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing a fence post with a jack:

Dig Around the Post: Use a shovel or post hole digger to dig around the post, exposing as much of the underground section as possible. Aim to dig down at least a foot, or more if the post is deeply embedded. This step is crucial for loosening the soil and reducing the resistance.
Loosen the Soil (and Concrete): If the post is set in concrete, use a pickaxe, hammer, and chisel to break up the concrete around the post. Be careful not to damage the post itself. For soil, a leverage bar or pry bar can help loosen the surrounding soil.
Attach the Chain or Cable: Securely attach the chain or cable to the post. If you have a post puller attachment, use it to grip the post. Otherwise, wrap the chain around the post as low as possible, ensuring a tight and secure connection. You might need to experiment with different wrapping methods to find what works best for your situation.
Position the Jack: Place the jack on a stable surface next to the post. Make sure the base of the jack is firmly planted and won’t sink into the soil. You may need to use a piece of wood or a metal plate to create a more stable base.
Connect the Jack to the Chain: Attach the other end of the chain or cable to the lifting arm of the jack. Make sure the connection is secure.
Begin Lifting: Slowly and steadily begin operating the jack. Apply even pressure and watch the post carefully. If the post doesn’t budge, stop and re-evaluate. You may need to dig deeper, loosen the soil further, or adjust the chain connection.
Wiggle and Lift: As you lift the post, wiggle it back and forth to help break the soil’s grip. This can be done manually or with a pry bar.
Continue Lifting: Continue lifting and wiggling the post until it is completely free from the ground.
Remove the Post: Once the post is free, carefully remove it from the hole. Be mindful of its weight and any remaining concrete attached to it.
Clean Up: Fill the hole with soil and compact it. Dispose of the old post and any debris properly.

Case Study: Removing a Concrete-Encased Post

I once helped a friend remove a series of fence posts that were encased in massive concrete footings. We tried several methods, including using a sledgehammer to break the concrete, but it was slow and exhausting. Finally, we rented a concrete saw and cut the concrete footings into smaller, more manageable pieces. This made the removal process much easier and faster. It also allowed us to avoid damaging the surrounding fence panels.

Pro Tips for Broken Underground Wood

Dealing with broken underground wood presents a unique set of challenges. Here are some pro tips for tackling these situations:

Excavate Extensively: The key to removing a broken post is to excavate as much soil around the stub as possible. This will give you more room to work and allow you to get a better grip on the post.
Use a Post Puller Attachment: A post puller attachment is particularly useful for broken posts. Look for one with jaws that can grip the remaining stub securely.
Create an Attachment Point: If the stub is too short or rotten to grip, you may need to create an attachment point. You can do this by driving a metal stake into the center of the stub or by bolting a piece of wood to the side of the stub.
Apply Penetrating Oil: Spraying penetrating oil around the stub can help loosen the soil and make it easier to pull.
Consider a Chemical Root Killer: If roots are a major obstacle, consider using a chemical root killer to weaken them. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Heat the Stub: Applying heat to the stub can help expand the wood and break the bond with the surrounding soil. You can use a propane torch for this, but be careful not to set the wood on fire.
Persistence is Key: Removing a broken underground post can be a time-consuming and frustrating process. Don’t give up! With patience and the right techniques, you can eventually get it out.

My Experience with a Stubborn Stub

I remember one particularly stubborn broken post that I spent hours trying to remove. The stub was buried deep underground and surrounded by a network of tree roots. I tried everything – digging, prying, pulling – but nothing seemed to work. Finally, I decided to try using a combination of heat and penetrating oil. I heated the stub with a propane torch for a few minutes, then sprayed it with penetrating oil. I repeated this process several times, and eventually, the stub started to loosen. After a few more minutes of prying and pulling, I was finally able to extract it.

Alternative Methods: When the Jack Isn’t Enough

While a jack is a powerful tool, there may be situations where it’s not the best option. Here are some alternative methods to consider:

Tractor with a Front-End Loader: A tractor with a front-end loader can provide a significant amount of lifting power. Attach a chain to the post and use the loader to lift it out.
Come-Along: A come-along is a hand-operated winch that can be used to pull the post out of the ground. It’s a good option for smaller posts or when you don’t have access to a jack.
Leverage and a Fulcrum: Use a long lever (like a sturdy 2×4) and a fulcrum (like a rock or a piece of wood) to create leverage and lift the post. This method requires some physical strength, but it can be effective for smaller posts.
Digging and Cutting: In some cases, the best approach is simply to dig around the post and cut it off below ground level. This is a good option when the post is severely damaged or when you don’t need to remove the entire post.

Strategic Advantages of Different Methods

Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. A jack is powerful and versatile but can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. A tractor is even more powerful but requires more space and can damage the surrounding area. A come-along is portable and easy to use but has limited lifting capacity. Leverage and a fulcrum are simple and inexpensive but require physical strength. Digging and cutting are straightforward but leave a stub in the ground.

Safety Considerations: Protecting Yourself and Others

Safety should always be your top priority when removing fence posts. Here are some important safety considerations:

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Always wear gloves, safety glasses, and work boots.
Call 811 Before You Dig: Before digging, call 811 to have underground utilities marked. This will prevent you from accidentally damaging a utility line.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of any potential hazards, such as overhead power lines, trees, or uneven terrain.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Bend your knees and keep your back straight.
Keep Bystanders Away: Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, away from the work area.
Inspect Your Tools: Before using any tool, inspect it for damage. Do not use damaged tools.
Work in Good Weather: Avoid working in wet or icy conditions.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Personal Safety Story

I once witnessed a friend who was removing a fence post get seriously injured. He was using a tractor to pull the post, and the chain snapped. The broken chain recoiled and struck him in the face, causing severe lacerations. He was lucky to have been wearing safety glasses, which prevented him from losing an eye. This incident taught me the importance of always wearing appropriate safety gear and being aware of the potential dangers of working with heavy machinery.

Cost Analysis: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Removing fence posts can be a DIY project or a task you hire a professional to do. Here’s a cost analysis to help you decide which option is best for you:

DIY: The cost of DIY fence post removal depends on the tools you already own and the materials you need to purchase. You may need to buy or rent a jack, chain, shovel, and other tools. The total cost could range from \$50 to \$200.
Professional: The cost of hiring a professional to remove fence posts depends on the number of posts, the difficulty of the job, and the hourly rate of the contractor. The total cost could range from \$50 to \$150 per post.

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional, consider the following factors:

Your Skill Level: If you are comfortable using power tools and have experience with similar projects, DIY may be a good option.
The Difficulty of the Job: If the posts are deeply embedded, set in concrete, or located in a difficult-to-access area, hiring a professional may be the best option.
Your Time Commitment: Removing fence posts can be a time-consuming process. If you are short on time, hiring a professional may be the best option.
Your Budget: Compare the cost of DIY with the cost of hiring a professional to determine which option is most affordable for you.

Wood Type Selection for Replacement Posts

When replacing fence posts, choosing the right type of wood is crucial for longevity and durability. Here’s a rundown of common wood types and their properties:

Pressure-Treated Pine: This is the most common and affordable option. The pine is treated with chemicals to resist rot and insect damage. It’s a good all-around choice for most fencing applications.
Cedar: Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects, making it a durable and attractive option. It’s more expensive than pressure-treated pine but requires less maintenance.
Redwood: Redwood is another naturally durable wood with a beautiful reddish color. It’s similar to cedar in terms of cost and maintenance.
Black Locust: This is a very dense and durable hardwood that is naturally resistant to rot and insects. It’s more expensive than other options but can last for decades.
Metal Posts: Metal posts are a durable and low-maintenance alternative to wood posts. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and can be painted or powder-coated.

Moisture Content Targets

When installing new wood posts, it’s important to ensure that they are properly seasoned. The ideal moisture content for fence posts is between 12% and 18%. This will help prevent warping and cracking.

Drying Methods for Wood

If you’re using green wood for your fence posts, you’ll need to dry it before installation. Here are some common drying methods:

Air Drying: This is the most common and least expensive method. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry naturally. Air drying can take several months to a year, depending on the climate and the thickness of the wood.
Kiln Drying: This is a faster and more controlled method. The wood is placed in a kiln and dried using heat and humidity. Kiln drying can take several days to several weeks.
Solar Drying: This method uses the sun’s energy to dry the wood. The wood is placed in a solar kiln, which is a greenhouse-like structure that traps heat. Solar drying is faster than air drying but slower than kiln drying.

Timing Estimates for Drying Times

The drying time for wood depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the thickness of the wood, the climate, and the drying method. As a general rule, air drying takes about one year per inch of thickness. Kiln drying takes about one week per inch of thickness. Solar drying takes about two to three months per inch of thickness.

Firewood Stacking Techniques: Maximizing Space and Drying

While seemingly unrelated, proper firewood stacking techniques are relevant because old fence posts can often be repurposed as firewood (assuming they are not treated with harmful chemicals). Efficient stacking maximizes space and promotes air circulation for faster drying.

The Traditional Row: This involves stacking the wood in neat rows, typically with the bark side up to shed water. This method is aesthetically pleasing and relatively easy to execute.
The Criss-Cross Stack: This involves alternating layers of wood, with each layer perpendicular to the one below. This creates a more stable stack and promotes better air circulation.
The Circular Stack (Holz Hausen): This is a traditional German method that involves stacking the wood in a circular shape with a slightly inward slope. This creates a very stable stack and maximizes drying.

Original Case Study: Holz Hausen Efficiency

I once built a Holz Hausen stack to dry a large quantity of firewood. I was amazed at how much wood I could fit into a relatively small space. The circular shape also allowed for excellent air circulation, which significantly reduced the drying time. I estimated that the Holz Hausen stack dried the wood about 25% faster than a traditional row stack.

Next Steps: Putting Your Knowledge into Action

Now that you’ve learned the techniques for removing fence posts with a jack, it’s time to put your knowledge into action. Here are some practical next steps:

Assess Your Project: Evaluate the fence posts you need to remove and determine the best approach based on the factors discussed in this guide.
Gather Your Tools and Materials: Make a list of the tools and materials you’ll need and gather them before you start working.
Plan Your Work Area: Clear the area around the fence posts and create a safe and organized work space.
Follow the Step-by-Step Guide: Follow the step-by-step guide provided in this article to remove the fence posts safely and efficiently.
Dispose of the Old Posts: Dispose of the old fence posts properly. If they are not treated with harmful chemicals, you can use them as firewood or compost them.
Install New Posts: Once you’ve removed the old posts, install new fence posts using the appropriate techniques and materials.
Enjoy Your New Fence: Step back and admire your newly repaired or replaced fence!

Remember, removing fence posts can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and a little perseverance, you can get the job done safely and efficiently. Good luck!

Remove Fence Post with Jack (Pro Tips for Broken Underground Wood)

Understanding the Challenge: Why Fence Post Removal is Difficult

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: A Quick Note