How to Build a Steel T Leg Clothesline

Mark the spots where you plan to install your posts. Your clothesline can be as long or as short as your yard permits; however 20 feet is a common distance.

Purchase a clothesline kit. A steel T leg kit can be purchased, which will include the posts, cross arms, rope and hardware.

Dig the two holes for your posts using an 8-inch auger. You can rent an auger at most hardware stores. Dig down 4-feet for each post hole.

Build a wood frame that will go around each post to help hold them in place while the cement dries. You can create a frame using 1-by-2 wood. Cut four small pieces to create a collar around the pole. Nail the pieces together around the pole.Then cut four longer pieces that will be nailed to the collar and extend to the ground. Small triangular support pieces are then cut and nailed to the bottom legs of the frame and pushed into the ground to hold the frame in place.

Prepare your cement mixture according to the manufacturer's instructions. A wheelbarrow is the best choice for preparing the mixture, as it can then be easily poured into the holes.

Place the first pole into the hole and center it. The post will go through the wood support frame that you created to hold it in place. Pour the cement in to fill around the pole. Use a trowel to create a mound around the bottom of the pole with the cement.

Remove the wood support frame after 24 hours; however, do not finish installing the clothesline for one week to be sure the concrete has fully dried and the posts are secure.

Attach the hardware to the posts. This will generally require you to mount two pulleys and then thread the clothesline through the pulleys. Once the clothesline is ready, tighten the tensioner. The tensioner will have a key that you turn to create more or less tension on the line. Cut off any excess rope once you have the tension adjusted to your satisfaction.