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How to Use a Power Auger

Valerie Albarda

By Valerie Albarda
Updated August 26, 2021

If you’re building a fence or deck and have a lot of holes to dig, a power auger is the way to go. Here’s how to use it.

Skill

Intermediate

Time

Few Hours

Tools and Materials

Tools

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Instructions

Auger bits are available in different sizes to match different sizes of posts. Augers are also available as one-person and two-person models. Even the one-person models might require two people.

Good to Know

Before digging, call 811 to have any underground utilities marked.

Check local codes for post hole size. Some codes might require the depth to be below the frost line to prevent heaving. The diameter for post holes is typically about three times the width of the post.

Good to Know

Mark the depth of the hole you need on the auger blade with marking paint.

Instructions