[Seniorwithaplan]

Senior in Saskatchewan needing low maintenance yard on a minimal budget. So tired of looking at a mess. I have a flat spot where above ground pool was- approx 32x32ft. most of area covered with pool base so not much for weeds except 2ft fence edge. I bought recycled rubber mats resembling sidewalk blocks. I need advice on this: Platform or not. I wanted a wood platform first then the rubber on top so they don't move around. pallets were an idea but I cannot lift them any more, and cheap help is non-existent. Can I build a platform with 2x4 laying flat on the pool bottom, 12-14" apart, then recycle discarded fence boards for topper then place the rubber on top. I want the boards to lift the least amount so I can step up easily and keep down the bugs as they love living under the mats (I found out after the purchase). Hope to get smaller pieces from discards at construction site for free, just haven't found one willing. Easier to toss in metal bin. After platform is done I will look at a few vegetable/flower boxes so I don't have to carry pots around, but that's for another time. Any suggestions are welcome. Thank you.

 

[Bondo]

I wanted a wood platform first then the rubber on top so they don't move around. pallets were an idea but I cannot lift them any more, and cheap help is non-existent. Can I build a platform with 2x4 laying flat on the pool bottom, 12-14" apart, then recycle discarded fence boards for topper then place the rubber on top. I want the boards to lift the least amount so I can step up easily and keep down the bugs as they love living under the mats (I found out after the purchase).

Ayuh,..... Unless the wood is P/T, it's my guess that they'll rot out in a year or two, 'n give the bugs more space to live in, right from the get-go,.....

 

[lenaitch]

Even if they are P/T, they will still rot unless rated as 'ground contact' and I'm not sure 1x and 2x P/T lumber is.
I would think what you propose is going to make an uneven and unstable walking surface. Even if it could be graded absolutely level, the first winter will probably wipe that out and bits and pieces of random wood will never be level.

 

[DoomsDave]

@Seniorwithaplan! Welcome!

 

[3onthetree]

Was there enough sand under the old pool that can be moved around to the rest of the small yard? Then set your rubber blocks on top of the sand. The sand will make it easier to pull any weeds growing in between, and rubber blocks can be lifted at any time (but will not shift). Reusing any pallet wood or fence pickets is not strong enough for you to walk on and will deteriorate quickly.

 

[DoomsDave]

@Seniorwithaplan maybe post some pictures?

A long time ago I made my living helping people figure out solutions to problems like yours and pictures helped a lot!