My wife and I want to set up a wooden swing set for our kids, but we have a slight slope in our yard. I haven't measured the slope yet, but I'm trying to keep this simple and not turn it into a big project. One idea is to level the area using dirt, but that could make a mess while we wait for the grass to grow back. The other option I'm considering is using pavers and stone to level all the contact points of the swing set. Any thoughts or recommendations?
4 Answers
A tip if you decide to raise the ground with dirt: make sure to compact it well. Do it in shallow layers so it holds up over time. If you don't compact it properly, you'll end up with a mess as it settles!
It really depends on how steep the slope is and the size of your swing set. Personally, I recommend making it a bigger project by building a retaining wall downhill and then filling the space around the swing set with cedar chips. This way, if your kids fall, they have a soft landing. Just be sure not to place the wall too close to the swing's landing area!
I think cutting the legs of the swing set might make your project a lot simpler! Just a thought.
Have you thought about lowering the other side of the slope instead? That could balance things out. Just keep in mind, the only issue would be where to put the dirt you dig out!
Yeah, that could work! But I guess you’d need a plan for the dirt you'd remove, huh?
Another approach could be to set the pads for the swing set on pavers as is and then level the swing set legs itself. You can use some clear vinyl tubing as a water level; a laser level works great too!
I like the paver idea! It’ll help distribute the weight better and prevent the swing set from sinking into the grass.
Make sure whatever you do, the wall is a safe distance from where the kids will land!