Using A Post Pounder To Install Your New Fence

If you're considering installing your very first fence, then you might find yourself using a post pounder for the first time in your life. While you could build the fence without the pounder, this handy piece of equipment makes the job so much easier and faster. First, let's look at what a post pounder is, and then we'll discuss how to use it in putting up your new fence.

Post Pounder Vs. Earth Auger

A post pounder should not be mistaken for an earth auger.

  • Post hole augers are tools used to dig the hole where a fence post might go.

  • The pounder is used afterward, to help drive the post into the ground.

  • A post pounder, then, is the tool which you use to drive fence or sign posts into the ground.

  • It normally features a heavy iron pipe, closed at the end, and which has handles on its sides.

  • When in use, the pounder's open end is placed on the post-top to be moved up and down, driven into the ground.

  • The closed end of the pounder hammers the post-top. The tool's large mass helps sink it into the ground.

A Manual Post Pounder

A manual post pounder usually weighs about 20 pounds, although the weight varies according to model type. It can be dangerous to handle if not operated correctly. For instance, if the user lifts it above his head, he could possibly hit the heavy bottom on his head, causing serious injury. Practicing proper head safety is essential (wear a hard hat), as is proper hand safety (wear padded gloves).

Make sure, when you're shopping for your pounder that you deal only with reputable dealers and manufacturers. Wheatheart is a good example of a trusted name in the field.

Installing Your Fence

  • Now let's get to install your fence. Make sure that your posts will go in soft soil or clay, and not in hard mineral.

  • Then you need to dig the corner posts.

  • Your post holes should be around 12 inches in diameter if you're using six inch posts, and the holes dug about two feet deep.

  • If the fence posts are made of wood, you might not need a post pounder; a heavy sledge hammer might work.

  • For steel posts, though, you'll almost certainly need a pounder.

  • Once the corner posts are dug, place a stake near the hole, in the ground, tying a string to the sake.

  • Now run this string to the next corner. The string acts as a guide to ensure that the holes and posts are kept in a straight line. Make sure the string is tight so the wind won't mess with it.

  • Next, measure from corner post to the intended location of the next post. If you're doing six foot fence sections, it should be six feet to the next post hole.

If you plan to install a gate, take that into account as you measure for the posts...otherwise you might forget to put in those posts. Also if you have a gate you are going to be installing you will want to remember to leave space for it.

After your holes are dug, it's time to set the posts. Put one post in a hole, filling it with cement. With the cement still wet, use a level to make sure the post is straight.

Repeat The Process

On your next post, and each one afterward, follow these same steps, making sure that the distance is kept uniform and the posts kept straight. These are essential to make sure the fence panels install correctly. You might even want to brace the posts with stakes to keep them from moving as the cement sets. Check it often with the level.

Once the cement is dry, it's time to attach the post hardware. After it's installed, attach the fence panels, then the runner boards, if a wood fence. And now you're done: a process begun by a post pounder has resulted in a wonderful new fence on your property.