I'm working on a swingset that's similar to a climbing frame. The issue I'm facing is that one side of the A-frame is sinking into the soil since it's just sitting on the ground. The other side is fine since it's on concrete pier blocks. I'm considering using concrete pier blocks to stabilize the A-frame side too. What's the best way to connect them?
I'm looking into a few options:
1) Using a post base from Simpson Strong-Tie, but since the A-frame legs are at an angle, I'm unsure if that would work well.
2) Directly screwing the legs into a wooden cap on the pier block, though I'm worried about the weight resting on just the screws.
3) Embedding the concrete block at an angle to match the A-frame legs.
4) Pouring cement into the holes the legs have already made to set them in place.
I've noticed that most setups just rest the wooden posts on the ground, but I feel like that won't cut it in my case. What do you think?
3 Answers
I’d suggest either using large pavers under the legs for a temporary fix or going for something more permanent like pouring footers and attaching Simpson post bases. The force might come down at an angle, but those bases are generally built to handle such stress, especially on a swingset!
Those pier blocks might not be sturdy enough on their own. For lasting support, consider digging out a 2+ ft square pad, anchoring it with screws, adding rebar, and then pouring concrete. Let it cure for a few days before you reattach the swingset for the best stability.
Wow, that's definitely a bigger project! I’m going to think about whether I want to go that route.
One simple solution could be to place some large pavers under the A-frame legs. It should help prevent them from sinking too much into the ground. I mean, if they’re compacted properly, a 24x24 or 30x15 paver could hold up against the weight without breaking. Just make sure they’re thick enough!
Definitely! Distributing the force should work well. But, I just worry that thinner pavers might crack under the pressure since the swingset can get pretty wild.
It really depends on how heavy the kids are and the soil quality, I think.
Thanks! I’m not too sure about pavers holding up under that force. Pouring footers sounds like a safer bet.