Unwanted panel fence concrete post - cut down?

Question

Behind our shed is the remnants of a panelled fence (concrete posts, fence panels, concrete boards at the foot) which extends into the visible area.

In the visible area, we want to retain the fence panels. Behind the shed we don't care. But about a foot beyond the shed there is now a redundant post rising up through a privet hedge.

Next doors ground level at that point is about 15 inches above our ground level, so the concrete boards are helping to retain this.

I'd like to think that smashing through the concrete post, grinding through the rebar, and sealing the top of the newly cut post is a practical means to allow the concrete boards to remain in place whilst improving the aesthetic.

How deluded am I? And how much effort would this solution take?

meow2222 · Accepted Answer

Angle grinder. But the post would probably not survive long with the steel core exposed. NT

Bob Minchin · Answer

Maybe cut the post off just below the  hedge level in the hope that the  extra length will delay the corrosion of the steel for a few years more?

John Williamson · Answer

If it's capped with an inch or two of a good strong mix, maybe with a  waterproofing additive, it shouldn't last any less time than the original.

newshound · Answer

I wouldn't smash the post, I would cut through it with a 9 inch angle grinder. In practice masonry blades will go through the rebar as well. If you "waterproof" the cut end effectively you should not get significant corrosion. I would be inclined to apply a thick-ish layer of non setting mastic, then use this to "glue" on a simple metal cap. Tinplate would probably be fine, if you can find an old fashioned 1 gallon oil can: cut it oversize and hammer over the edges to hold it in place. Or 1/16 inch alloy sheet. Or almost anything really. If it's not visible, a round plastic screw or clip-on lid might work. Or indeed the "pot" which it came from. With a rain and light shield, bitumen or other mastic will last for decades.

Unwanted panel fence concrete post - cut down?

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