3 Ways to Level Your Yard
Having a level yard is essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes. It ensures proper drainage, prevents soil erosion and makes activities like mowing, gardening, or playing games much more enjoyable. If your yard has uneven terrain, here are three ways you can level it to achieve a smooth and beautiful landscape.
1. Manual Yard Leveling
Manual leveling is the most cost-effective and straightforward method, suitable for small yards or minor unevenness. You’ll need tools such as a garden rake, shovel, wheelbarrow, and a carpenter’s level.
Steps for manual leveling:
– Start by clearing your yard of any debris – rocks, twigs, leaves, etc.
– Identify the high spots in your yard by placing a carpenter’s level or straight-edged board on the ground.
– Use the shovel to dig up excess soil from the high spots and transfer it to the low spots with your wheelbarrow.
– Spread the soil in the low areas using a garden rake until it’s even with the surrounding ground.
– Frequently use the carpenter’s level to ensure you’re maintaining an even surface.
– Once everything appears even, water your lawn thoroughly to help compact the soil and fill any remaining gaps.
2. Using a Lawn Roller
Another method for leveling your yard is using a lawn roller – a cylindrical container filled with water or sand that helps flatten out uneven ground areas.
Steps for using a lawn roller:
– Rent a lawn roller from your local hardware store or nursery.
– Before using it, mow your lawn slightly lower than usual and remove any debris.
– Fill the roller with either water or sand until it’s about 50 percent full (this will provide enough weight for effective leveling).
– Push the roller over your entire lawn in long rows, going over each area multiple times if required.
– As you roll over high spots, they’ll become compressed while low spots will fill in with fresh soil.
3. Seeking Professional Help
For larger yards or more severe leveling issues, hiring a professional landscaping company is the best course of action. These professionals have access to specialized equipment like grading machines, laser levels, and tractors – making the leveling process quicker and more precise.
Seeking professional help:
– Get multiple quotes from different landscaping companies and compare their services and costs.
– Check references and read online reviews to ensure you select a reputable company.
– Explain your leveling needs to them and find out if they have experience dealing with similar situations.
Conclusion
Leveling your yard is not only crucial for its appearance, but also for its overall health. By understanding these three methods – manual leveling, using a lawn roller, or seeking professional help – you can choose the most suitable technique for your context. Whether it’s for planting that dream garden or creating a safe play area for your kids, a level yard will make your outdoor space more enjoyable.