How to Use an Auger for Deck Footings

Layout your grid for your deck footings. Spray the grass with paint to mark where you want the deck footings and posts. Call utility companies before you dig the first hole. The utility companies will come out and mark where electrical, gas and water lines are located underground. This prevents cutting into one of the line causing damage or personal injury.

Dig a shallow hole at each of your spray marks with a spade shovel. The holes should be as wide as the auger bit and at least 1-inch deep. This helps prevent the auger from wandering away from your mark when first starting to drill the hole.

Place the auger into the starter hole, and have your helper hold the auger steady with their set of handles. You should be standing in front of the handles with the pull cord pointing toward you. Start the auger with the pull cord according to the instructions given at the rental store.

Hold the handles firmly, and squeeze the throttle grip on the right handle until the auger begins to bore through the hole. Both you and your helper must hold the handles steady as the auger bores through the hole.

Release the throttle once the auger bores down 6-inches deep. Lift the auger out of the hole, leaving the tip at the top of the hole. Tilt the auger to one side and shake off the soil. Insert the auger back into the hole and squeeze the throttle again to continue boring.

Continue stopping every 6-inches to remove soil from the auger bit until you bore below the frost line in your area. Lift the auger out of the hole and shut of the engine before moving to the next hole.