How to fix sloping land?

[rainrain]

I have had water pipes replaced in the backyard and the ground has not been compacted properly so the area has sunk causing puddles of water when there is a heavy downpour. What material is the best to use for filling in and leveling these spots?

[MitchellMc · Accepted solution]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @rainrain. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about filling soil.

Since the area has sunk due to the soil not being compacted after the pipe work, the best long-term fix is to refill it with a material that compacts well and won’t settle too much over time. A good approach is to first use a compactable fill such as crushed rock (crusher dust or road base) to bring the level up close to where you need it, compacting it in layers as you go. Then finish the top 50–100mm with a good quality topsoil so grass or other plants can establish. Avoid filling the whole depth with just topsoil, as it will continue to settle and could cause the low spots to reappear. Once filled, water the area and compact it again to help reduce future sinking. If you have more than a few small patches to level, it might be worth hiring one of our small plate compactors to get a firm base. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[rainrain]

Hi Mitchell thank you for your reply.

Could I use drainage gravel instead and put concrete slabs down for a path?

Thank you

Rainrain

[EricL]

Hello @rainrain 

I recommend following MitchellMc's recommendation as putting in just drainage gravel is not going to give you the same results as crushed rock and road base. The drainage gravel is suitable for the surface when you place the concrete slabs down to step on.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric