How to fix a sinking post
by
Gwe10386512
+4
I have a post holding up my steps going up to a deck (only 3 steps) but one post is sinking lower and making the steps uneven. Is the only way to fix it is to take everything apart and replace the post? Also, if I go take out the post, how do I make it so the post doesn't sink again?
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You could try to shore it up with a Brick Maybe...........
Do you know what made the post sink? Poor drainage, heaving from frost...or too short to begin with? I would remove the post, clean out the hole and measure whatever depth is needed for a frost line. Once determined, add some gravel, place the new post...use a level to make sure it is straight...then add cement. Reattach post to the steps and you should be good!
I pay attention when my husband does things!
One caution. We have an old house and my husband has done a lot of work on it, including the question above. But the post in our case held up a porch that was two stories. We also had had repair work done on the upper porch. After some years we noticed a lot of leaking and also some sagging of one corner of the porch on the first floor. We had the whole thing replaced but one of our thoughts was that maybe when husband replaced that post it was not exactly the same height as it had been. Post replacing is a tricky business, best left to professionals, IMHO.
I can only suggest you try knocking in a metal post to see how far you have to go in before you reach firm ground. If it bites you may be able to fix your steps post to it...............Otherwise you may have to dismantle and set a concrete Pad.