In article , "DIMwit" wrote:

Yes, I know3 about ventillation to prevent CO2 poisoning. I'll leave
a door or window ajar, plus the barn has plenty of small leaks by each
rib in the steel along the roof edge. I will gradually plug those
with foam after the stalls are done.

CO2 is relatively harmless. It's the CO that you have to
worry about, a lot. Burning charcoal indoors is favorite
way to commit suicide in some countries. Very low concentrations
of CO can be lethal so be careful!

PS. I recall the city used to place a half of a steel barrel drum over
the coal. I wonder if that helps thaw the ground, or is only to
prevent sparks from flying. I know regular coal tends to spark more
than charcoal.

why can't you just pour boiling water on the ground so soften it up? It's
easier to heat up a big pot of water on a barbeque outside the barn, and the
water will work quickly working its way down, I think.

The trouble with boiling water is... if the conditions are
sufficiently cold, the boiling water can soon turn to ice
thereby making matters considerably worse.

Don't use water usless you're sure it isn't going to end
up frozen before you've finished the job.

I've never had to deal with excavating frozen ground but
I'd probably try an electric radiant heater. If you have
(or can borrow) one it would be relatively easy and safe
to try that technique. If it doesn't work you still have
the option of trying something a little more aggressive,
and dangerous.

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