What is a good rule of thumb in determining the depth of a hole for setting a post?
The depth for most heavy posts should be at least two feet. Another “rule of thumb” is that the hole’s depth should be 1/5 of the length of the posts and below the frost line. (Check local building codes to determine frost line depths.) To determine the diameter of the hole, measure the diameter or width of the post. The hole diameter should be at least 6 inches more than the post diameter or width.