How To Straighten A Leaning Pole

A leaning pole is usually indicative of soil erosion or shift, and the angle of the lean grows progressively acute as the soil around the pole erodes or shifts further. It is necessary to quickly fix a leaning pole that is causing disruptions such as sagging fences or power lines, as these disruptions can have substantial consequences. Fixing a leaning pole requires the work of at least two people.

Step 1

Dig with a shovel along the side of the pole and away from the lean, while another person holds the pole to prevent it from moving. If the pole is very large, use multiple people or industrial-strength cable to secure the pole while one person digs away from the lean.

Step 2

Cut two to four strips of rope about 5 feet long and tie each end of rope to the pole about 3 feet off the ground. Place two wooden stakes in opposite directions from the pole. Tie the other end of each rope to one of the wooden stakes.

Step 3

Straighten the pole with the help of a friend. While one friend holds the pole, hammer the wooden stakes into the ground. Add enough tension to the ropes to hold the pole in place. Check that the pole is straight with a level, and make tension adjustments where necessary.

Step 4

Mix concrete according to instructions, and fill the hole along the pole with concrete. Leave the stakes in the ground at least overnight; remove them when the concrete has completely hardened.