Backfill and Pack Soil
From Landscape Steps · Step 6 of 8 · Video by How To Video Channel
Showing 2:10–3:59 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
After placing and staking the railroad ties, pack dirt tightly around the step, especially behind it. Use a sledgehammer or other heavy tool to firmly compact the soil behind the tie, which will push the entire step forward against the stakes, making it more solid and sturdy. Once the initial packing is done, add more dirt to fill in any gaps and create a smooth, level surface. You can use your hands or a shovel to distribute the dirt evenly. Water the packed dirt to help it settle and become even more solid.
Goal: Solidify the steps and create a usable surface
What's used
Tools
- Shovel
- Sledgehammer
Materials
- Soil
- Water
About the full video
This project provides instructions on how to build stable and long-lasting steps using railroad ties and wooden stakes. The process involves preparing the site, sizing the ties, securing them with stakes, and backfilling with compacted soil.
Step 6 of 8: Backfill and Compact Behind Timbers
Once the first step is filled and compacted, backfill the soil behind the retaining timbers. Compact this soil firmly to provide additional support and prevent the timbers from moving forward.
Other videos for this step
Landscape Steps
This project involves constructing timber and gravel steps on a slope to improve accessibility and aesthetics. The process includes planning the layout, excavating the area, building retaining walls for each step using timber, and filling the steps with compacted gravel for a durable and functional surface.
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