I'm looking for advice on how to remove some concrete posts that the previous owner left behind. They made 2-foot deep holes and filled them with concrete using 5-gallon pots as forms. The posts don't have anything solid to grip onto, which makes it tough to get them out. I've tried wrapping a tow strap around one and lifting it with a car jack, but the strap just slips off. Would it be worth renting a jackhammer, or are there better methods I should consider?
3 Answers
One way to tackle this is to drill a hole into the concrete and insert a bolt. Then, you can wrap a strap under the bolt and lift it. Just make sure to stand clear when you do! It's a pretty straightforward method and can provide a solid grip for pulling.
Another effective method is to use a metal wheel without a tire, paired with a long 4x4 and some chain. Attach one end of the 4x4 to the post and set the wheel underneath as a fulcrum, giving you leverage to lift it out. This has worked for me several times with concrete posts, and you can pivot the setup to get better angles while pulling.
You might also want to dig a deeper hole next to the post, around 6 inches deeper and the same size, and then use a bar to flop the concrete into that hole. Afterward, just fill in the original hole so it stays level. This way, you won't need to pull it out entirely, and it keeps your yard looking nice.
Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely check this method out. It sounds clever!