Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Apr 26, 1999 09:43am | #1

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   Gary;

   I'd be concerned with the material under the playsets. Four inches of sand and either shredded tire or wood chips can mean the difference between a good cry and 6 weeks in a cast (or much worse)

   Any wood timbers to help level will create objects for the clients to fall upon.

   I'd create large level areas and place proper footing materials.

   The septic tank and lines will be fine as long as you don't hit 'em. HaHa. keep any cuts less than 12 to 18" and you'll probably be fine.

   prevention is cheap

   Adam

1. 
   Guest_ | Apr 26, 1999 10:39pm | #2

   *What a job!I think the only proper way to do this is to level the slope by building up the downslop with poured retainer walls or RR Ties, and filling in the area with clean fill. Don't forget ABS Drain lines. Finish off with pea gravel, and 4-6" of sand. This would be quite a project. Cheaper to take them to the park.

1. 
   Guest_ | Apr 27, 1999 07:11am | #3

   *I'm very pro-park too.i would try to terrace the slope with retaining walls -- I'm leery of railroad ties because creosote is a carcinogen. Adam is right on about the need for cushioning material; wood chips seem to be the top choice nowadays. If you want to terrace the yard anyway -- you won't have play equipment out there forever -- start getting quote for the job. Drainage is critical if the retaining walls are to survive...

1. 
   Guest_ | Apr 29, 1999 10:23am | #5

   *Don't know where you are, but the interlocking block systems work very nicely for non-rectilinear geometries. Keystone is one ($$) also Ackerstone is good for lower walls (<4ft). Lasts as long as concrete, can do it yourself. Make sure you have drainage pipe and gravel.BTW, I recently found a product for doing wall caps: I always disliked the unfinished look of these blocks. The product is called wallcap. It is made by an outfit in Texas which makes the cantilever forms used for swimming pools. It is a foam form which is clamped on both sides of the wall. Simply fill the space between with concrete. Nice finished look. SImple to refined profiles. Looks great on t stucco finished wall with a laid up cut stone base.

2. 
   gary_ | Apr 29, 1999 10:23am | #4

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   I just moved to a new home with a backyard that slopes down from the house. I have a large playset and many other yard toys that need to be level to be used. My question is, what are some ways to accomplish this? Should the yard be leveled in some fashion (terracing, grade work, etc...)? Should the playset and toys be leveled some way (railroad ties, etc...)? I have never done this and have no clue. Also, how will this affect the septic tank and lines? Thanks for any ideas, advice, etc... I really appreciate it.
   Gary