How do you use a post hole hand auger?

A post hole hand auger is a tool used to dig holes for fence posts, deck posts, sign posts, and other outdoor structures that require holes to be dug. Hand augers allow you to dig neat, cylindrical holes quickly and with minimal effort compared to using a manual post hole digger. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly use a post hole hand auger.

Selecting the Right Auger

The first step is choosing the right auger for your needs. Post hole augers come in different sizes and designs. The most common sizes are 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch. Choose an auger diameter that is 2 to 4 inches wider than your post. This allows space to add gravel for drainage at the bottom of the hole. Other considerations when selecting an auger:

• Auger length – Longer augers allow you to dig deeper holes.
• Center spike – A center spike helps stabilize the auger while drilling.
• Screw design – Some augers have a screw-shaped bottom end to help pull soil upward.
• Handle style – T-handle or tee-handle augers are easiest to use.

High carbon steel augers are strongest. Look for quality manufacturing and solid welded construction.

Safety Tips

When using an auger, keep these safety considerations in mind:

• Wear gloves to protect your hands from blisters.
• Wear steel-toed boots in case you drop the auger on your foot.
• Clear overhead obstacles like power lines.
• Make sure there are no buried utilities where you are digging.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area.

Preparing the Work Area

Once you have the right auger, next get the work area ready:

1. Layout where your posts will go by marking spots with stakes or colored paint.
2. Use a shovel to remove any sod or grass where you will dig.
3. Optional – Place a board on the ground and mark your hole centers on it. This “template” board ensures accurate hole spacing.

Starting the Hole

With your auger selected and work area prepared, you’re ready to start digging. Follow these steps:

1. Place the auger over your marked hole location.
2. Make sure the auger is perpendicular to the ground.
3. Apply downward pressure while slowly turning the T-handle clockwise.
4. Once the auger screws into the earth, keep turning steadily with an even downward force.
5. When you reach the soil depth you want, stop rotating the auger.

Let the screw-shaped auger tip pull up soil to the surface. Occasionally lift the auger out to empty loosened dirt from the hole.

Working the Auger

Here are some tips for efficiently working an auger as you dig:

• Lower the auger slowly – don’t force it into densely packed soil.
• Advance the auger in stages, raising it up periodically to clear soil.
• To penetrate hard soil, dip the auger in water to moisten the cutting edges.
• For easier penetration, wiggle the auger from side to side as you turn.
• If the auger gets stuck, rotate it counter-clockwise to free it up.

Be careful not to go too deep, as this can make holes unstable. Generally a depth of 1/3 the post length, plus 6 inches, is adequate.

Finishing the Hole

Once your hole is dug to depth, there are a few final steps:

1. Use a shovel to clear out any remaining loose soil.
2. Check that the hole is plumb using a level.
3. Optional – add 6 inches of gravel in the bottom of the hole for drainage.

Your hole is now ready for the post! For a sturdier install, use concrete to set posts in the holes.

Cleaning and Maintenance

After finishing your holes, follow these tips for cleaning and maintaining your auger:

• Use a dry brush to remove caked-on soil.
• Lubricate the screw threads occasionally with penetrating oil.
• Sharpen the cutting edges as needed with a file or grinder.
• Coat with rust preventative spray if storing for long periods.

Proper care will keep your auger hole-digging ready for years of use.

Conclusion

Post hole augers provide and easy, fast way to dig perfect holes for projects like fencing, mailboxes, signs, and deck supports. Choose the right size auger for your needs and use proper technique to achieve neat, clean holes with minimal effort. Follow safety precautions, and keep your auger cleaned, lubricated and sharp. With the steps outlined here, you’ll be drilling holes like a professional in no time.