ᐅ Earth auger for pier foundations – what diameter is recommended?

Created on: 8 Mar 2018 15:09
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Changeling
We want to create pier foundations for a log fence, a chain-link fence, and a greenhouse. However, I don’t want to dig all of them out by hand with a spade, and renting a motor-driven earth auger is too expensive. Therefore, I’m considering using a manual auger. What size would be sufficient here? Is a 20cm (8 inches) diameter enough? There is a version from Fiskars that I’m somewhat interested in. Otherwise, I also have 25cm (10 inches) and 30cm (12 inches) augers from other manufacturers in my shopping cart. What do you recommend?

Also, should I insert PVC pipes into the holes, or is it better to pour the concrete directly into the soil?
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Nordlys
13 Mar 2018 18:07
In cemetery operations, we use the Stihl BT 131. It costs just under 900 with tax. The staff are very satisfied with the equipment.
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Fuchur
13 Mar 2018 18:25
That's exactly what I mean. That's still significantly more than four times the price. Then there are some around €500.
I prefer to invest in high-quality tools, as they make life easier. But is it really "worth it" for just a few holes in a private garden? That's why I’m also considering the second-hand market.
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Nordlys
13 Mar 2018 18:40
The issue with devices like the Stihl models is that they are designed for commercial use. When they are used, they are truly worn out. We operate them almost until the very end. So the category "very good used condition" is rare for such equipment. The original buyer is usually a professional. I’m not sure how well cheaper devices perform, but with 120 urn holes and several more for stakes, we use such a machine almost every week, so we don’t buy anything cheap. A Stihl like this lasts about 10 years here. Karsten
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Fuchur
13 Mar 2018 19:28
The argument is understandable. Thank you for that.

A professional rental is not really an alternative either. They charge around 40-50€ per day for the machine and drill. The hole still needs to be concreted or planted, so it quickly adds up to the cost of a machine of its own.

There is still plenty of time, so keep an eye out. Or Changeling might buy a Stihl, which wouldn’t be used up by him yet.
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Payday
15 Mar 2018 06:45
What are 200€ for such an attic device when you install metal fences costing several thousand euros? And for 150€, you can get rid of the device again. In the end, the device cost 50€, which is a small price for the work saved...
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Fuchur
15 Mar 2018 16:25
That is undisputed. The question was rather whether it is also worthwhile to upgrade to the higher class for a private garden.