Digging a post hole with a shovel is not as hard as it sounds! With the right technique, some elbow grease, and the right tools, you can have your post hole dug in no time.
In this blog post, we’ll be discussing how to dig a post hole with a shovel, what tools you’ll need, and the best techniques to use. So let’s get started!
Let’s Start With the Basics, What is a Post Hole?
Post holes are small, deep holes typically used to set fence posts or other structures.
They are commonly dug with a post-hole digger, but it is also possible to use a shovel to dig a post-hole.
This blog post will discuss the different types of shovels that can be used for digging post holes, and offer tips on how to use a shovel to dig the perfect post hole.
The Right Shovels for Digging Post Holes
When digging post holes, the right shovels are essential. Trenches, spades, and pointed digger shovels are all suitable for the task.
These shovels have a narrow blade that is specifically designed to dig deep into the ground.
With a long handle, they are also much better suited for digging deep postholes.
Additionally, using a shovel with a handle that is pushed forward will make it easier to plumb the blade and create a more precise hole.
If you need to dig multiple postholes, then upgrading to a clamshell digger or posthole digger might be your best option.
A posthole digger has two handles that look like a shovel and can be operated manually with great ease.
They are designed to help you quickly and easily dig deep and narrow holes for fence posts.
Types of Shovels
Before determining which shovel is the right one for digging post holes, it’s important to know the different types of shovels available.
- A trench shovel is used to dig long, narrow trenches or holes.
- A spade shovel is best for digging shallow holes and transporting dirt or other materials.
- A pointed digger shovel is designed for digging into hard surfaces such as clay.
- A post-hole digger is specially designed for digging deep holes for fence posts.
With the right type of shovel, you can easily dig post holes with minimal effort.
Using the Right Shovel for Post Holes
Before you choose the right shovel for your post-hole digging, it’s important to understand the different types of shovels available.
The most common types of shovels used for digging post holes are a trench, spade, or pointed digger shovel.
All of these shovels have long handles that allow you to dig deep into the ground and the blades are designed to fit comfortably in your hands.
Each type of shovel is designed for different tasks and it is important to understand which one is best for your project.
Tips for Digging Post Holes with a Shovel
Digging a post hole with a shovel can seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique and preparation, it is achievable.
Here are some tips to help you get started. Prepare the area before you start digging by clearing away any grass, weeds, or debris.
You’ll need a clear space to work in. Next, choose the right shovel for the job.
A garden spade is ideal for small post holes, while a trenching shovel is better for digging deeper holes.
When it comes to the digging technique, use your legs and your foot to push the shovel down into the ground for each shovelful of dirt.
Do not use your arms or your back.
You should also be sure to remove any rocks or debris in your way and keep an eye out for any underground pipes or cables that could be damaged by your digging.
With these tips in mind, you can dig post holes with a shovel with ease.
Digging the Sides of the Hole with the Shovel
Once you have removed the turf and dug out the dirt with a shovel, it’s time to dig the sides of the hole.
This is where a long-handled shovel or pointed digger shovel comes in handy.
You can use the shovel to dig down at an angle and make sure the sides of the hole are straight.
Be sure to keep your back straight and use your legs to do the work as it takes a lot of effort to dig a post hole with a shovel, so take frequent breaks.
Tips for Digging a Post Hole with a Shovel
Once you have chosen the right shovel for your post hole, there are certain techniques you can use to ensure that the job is done properly.
First, it’s important to clear the area of any rocks or debris that may be in the way. This will make it easier to dig a neat, even hole.
When you begin to dig, use your legs and feet to push the shovel down into the ground for each shovelful of dirt.
If you are having difficulty pushing the shovel through the ground, a pickaxe can be used to loosen the earth before you start digging.
As you go deeper into the hole, use your shovel to dig out the sides of the hole as well. This will help keep the walls of your posthole straight and even.
Prepare the Area
Before you start digging your post hole, it’s important to take the time to prepare the area.
Make sure you know the exact location and size of the post hole you need to dig so that you can plan out the job properly.
You should also clear away any debris or rocks which might interfere with your shoveling. After that, use a pickaxe to loosen up the ground in the area.
This will make it easier for your shovel to penetrate and dig more quickly and efficiently.
Choose the Right Shovel
When it comes to digging a post hole, the right shovel is essential. There is a range of shovels that are suitable for digging post holes, such as a trench, spade, or pointed digger shovel.
It is important to choose the right shovel for the job to ensure that the hole is dug correctly and safely.
Ergonomic considerations should also be taken into account when choosing the right shovel for the task.
For general digging or landscaping, a round-point shovel is best, while a post-hole shovel is ideal for deeper holes.
After 70 hours of research and 40 hours of shoveling, these are the best snow shovels for most people.
Digging Technique
Once you have the right shovel, it’s time to start digging. In general, the post hole should be one-third the depth of the post and twice as wide.
The best technique for digging post holes is to use your leg muscles rather than your arms or back, by doing a knee bend to lift a shovelful of dirt.
Dig with the blade plumb and the handle pushed forward. This will help to reduce strain on your back. As you dig, remove any rocks or debris that you come across.
Manual and petrol-powered post-hole digger hire are also available if you don’t want to dig the post-hole yourself.
Remove Rocks and Debris
Before you begin digging the post hole, it’s important to remove any rocks or debris that might damage the sides of the hole or the post.
Using a shovel, you can break up the soil and remove any large rocks that are in the way.
If you encounter hardpan soil, you can use a digging bar to break it up before shoveling it out.
In rocky terrain, it may be necessary to drill with an auger to get through the rocks.
Once all of the rocks and debris are removed, you can begin to dig your post hole with a shovel.
Use Your Legs, Not Your Back or Arms
When using a shovel to dig a post hole, it is important to use your legs rather than your back or arms.
Bending at the knees and using leg muscles to push the spade down into the soil will be more effective and will save your back from strain.
When lifting the load of soil, it should be close to your body for better balance.
Additionally, be sure that the soil is completely loose from the ground before attempting to lift it.
With these tips, you can feel confident that you can dig a post hole with a shovel safely and efficiently.
Difference Between Standard Shovels and Specialised Post Hole Shovels
Choosing the right shovel for post holes is essential to ensure you get the job done right.
Standard shovels are too wide and clumsy for digging post holes, so it’s important to upgrade to a specialised post hole shovel with a pointed tip that can fit into narrow spaces.
These shovels also have a long, straight handle that provides plenty of leverage and makes it easier to dig deep, narrow holes.
Additionally, they are usually made of metal at the end of a wooden handle and have a pinch-style blade that helps break up rooty soil and dig smaller, precise holes.
With the right shovel, you can make quick work of post holes and be on your way.
:Can Using Dry Concrete in a Post Hole Affect the Effectiveness of Digging with a Shovel?
Using dry concrete post hole can significantly affect the effectiveness of digging with a shovel. The dry concrete can create resistance and make the digging process more difficult. It’s important to properly mix and wet the concrete before putting it into the post hole to avoid any hindrance.
Conclusion: Is it Possible to Dig a Post Hole with a Shovel?
In conclusion, it is indeed possible to dig a post hole with a shovel, but the type of shovel used and the technique of digging can make a big difference.
Standard shovels may work for small jobs, but for bigger ones, you may need specialized post-hole shovels to make the task easier.
It is important to prepare the area before digging, use the right shovel for the job, and use your legs instead of your back or arms to avoid getting tired quickly.
With the right tools and techniques, post holes can be dug with a shovel.