Talked to a city inspector yesterday that totally changed my approach to post holes

He told me that over half the fence failures he sees are from people not digging deep enough past the frost line, even when they think they are. I've been setting my posts at 30 inches for years in this zone, and he said 36 minimum or the frost heave will get you every time. Has anyone else had to adjust their standard depth after getting feedback from an inspector?

3 comments

3 Comments

ray_miller848h ago

Wait, you're saying 36 inches? I'm in a pretty cold zone and I've been doing 30 for years, always thought I was fine. Guess I better start digging deeper next time.

grantw327h ago

Didn't you check your local frost line before you started digging?

casey_wood26h ago

Yeah 30 inches held up fine for you so far? That's honestly lucky more than anything lol. I'd definitely bump it up to 36 just to be safe, especially if you get a freak cold snap one year.