Getting a new fence can be a very exciting home improvement! A new fence will not only look better, but it will also be more durable, and improve the overall value of your home itself. However, if there is currently an old fence still in place, then the task of removing the old fence can be an issue. Here are a few tips we recommend to follow on removing an old fence:
- Detach the fence from the old posts. Wooden fences might require some brute force and strength to push them down. With a fence that is vinyl, you can unhinge the fence portion from the posts before removing them. Once all the posts are clear from the fence, then the real work will begin.
- Take a good look at what type of fence you have, and what the posts are attached with. Are they just dug in deep? Or is there concrete holding them up? If the posts are just dug deep in, then it will be much easier than a cemented post. The next step is to start digging them out. And the only way to do this is with a shovel, and some sweat. If the posts are cemented in, then you may need more heavy duty tools to lift them out.
- Once the posts have been dug out of the ground, the next step is to lift them out. This step requires you to take extra special precautions in order to avoid any injuries of the back. Work smart, not hard. There are ways in which you can do this:
- One way is with leverage. Tie a rope around the base of the post. Be sure to nail it in place to minimize any shifting. After the post had been tied, get a longer piece of a four by four, and tie the rope around it. Nail it in place once again. Wedge the four by four under the nails, and stand on the free end of the four by four to work on wiggling it out.
- Another way is to tie a rope around the bottom of the post. Once again, secure the rope with nails if needed. Tie the other end of the rope to a truck, and pull the post out.
- Once the posts are loosened and removed, the rest is fairly easy. Drag the old fence materials and debris away, and dispose of them properly. Recycle the remains, if possible.
If all else fails with having to remove the old fence, hire someone else to do it for you. For residential fencing needs, look for companies that can help remove the old fencing, as well as replace it with a new one. Not only will the hard work be done by someone else, but the removal of the old fence can also be taken care of by them, as well.
Remember that before any of these steps are taken to remove the old fence, make sure that it is legally within your right to do so. Does the fence solely belong to you? Or is it shared with the neighbors? Be sure to double check all of the minor details before beginning your project to protect yourself from any potential or accidental wrong doings.