Leveling a sloped backyard

Discussion in 'Renovation & Home Improvement' started by ashalim, 13th Jul, 2015.

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  1. ashalim

    ashalim Member

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    Hi all,

    Can anyone tell me what is involved in leveling a sloped backyard and also the approximate cost and time to complete the work for a 100sqm backyard?

    Note: the property is in Kingston, QLD

    Thanks in advance
     
  2. Francesco

    Francesco Well-Known Member

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    You need one or more retaining walls and steps. If the retaining wall is not higher than one metre, it can be a DIY job, using retaining wall blocks. Another popular option is to use treated pine sleepers. I suggest you decide the quality and type of retaining wall you think would look best for the property and ask the local landscaper for the quote.
     
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  3. Big Red

    Big Red Well-Known Member

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    Hi Ashalim,

    It can be expensive depending on what you want to do with it. Like Francesco said, depends on your council but you can go up to 1m with a retaining wall. It is cheap to do yourself, or you can do it properly via a landscaper.

    Be prepared for the cost if using someone.

    Also depends on how much of a slope you want to level.

    Best tip get some quotes and come back here and share.
     
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  4. WattleIdo

    WattleIdo midas touch

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    Yes, please do that. Am very interested to see how you go. I'll be doing a retaining wall too and probably by myself. No idea where to start. By getting fit and rejoining a yoga group, I suppose. :confused:o_O:p I didn't want to put in all those emoticons but couldn't delete them ! :eek:
     
    380 likes this.
  5. Pistonbroke

    Pistonbroke Well-Known Member

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    I had some built last year: 1.8-2.4 m high. Approx 20 m including underpinning a slab, drainage, footings, core-filled reinforced blockwork, backfilling with imported crushed concrete (not rubble and spoil). Over $60k invested and little to show for it.
     
  6. 380

    380 Well-Known Member

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    @ashalim

    Depends on slope..

    You may need retaining wall, fill and sediment control.

    You may be able to find a free fill/soil if you have construction site around you...just make sure there are no building material mixed in(potentially asbestos)

    If it is more then certain height, you will need retaining wall with engineers certificate.
     
  7. SeafordSunshine

    SeafordSunshine Well-Known Member

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    Could I also suggest you consider drainage? Who downhill would it affect? Can you link it to water ?
    I hope this helps
     
  8. HD_ACE

    HD_ACE Game-Changer

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    Have you got a photo?

    Whats the purpose for the area? Just a grassed area or something like paving/alfresco etc?
     
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  9. bob shovel

    bob shovel Well-Known Member

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  10. Francesco

    Francesco Well-Known Member

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    You are emoticon funny!
    I have done a few DIY retaining walls and consider myself suitably at your service!

    Define the problem - slope, what soil, how high retaining wall required, how long
    Assume retaining wall required is up to 1 metre high, so most engineered retaining wall block systems are adequate without a customised engineering design.
    Plan where water will drain to and how the steps will be designed.
    Plan how the two elevations will be finished - mulched, grassed or paving.
    Where to start - the local landscape yard to see the range of retaining wall blocks available. They generally look better than sleepers and can require less tools/skill to achieve a great outcome.

    Blocks supplier have design handouts for DIY to ensure structural integrity.
    In addition to blocks you need bedding (blue metal dust), in fill drainage provision (pebbles and agi pipe).
    The top row of blocks can be affixed more firmly with external grade construction glue to minimise vandalism or petty pilfering
    Main tools required: shovel, level gauge, measuring tape and rubber mallet

    Pick a day when the soil has been softened by rain to start breaking ground.
    I hope you make steady progress on the retaining wall. :)
     
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  11. ashalim

    ashalim Member

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    Can't do DIY, I'm in Sydney and property is in QLD...it's just a grassed area but it's steep enough to discourage some potential tenants with small kids....60k would be way too much...I was thinking 10k...maybe it's not necessary for now :)