[LynneM]

Hi, all. I hope I'm writing in the right place here.

I lost my husband very suddenly last Dec. and am now faced with many things I don't know how to do. I took out our above ground pool. The winter was very hard on it, (I'm in the Chicago area) and I really can't afford the new liner and all the work it would need now that I am living on my teacher's salary alone.

Here's my problem. There is a big, round area of sand where the pool was, and rock in the area between our deck and what was the pool area. There are also concrete post thingies in the ground from the former pool deck. I have no idea where to begin getting rid of the rock and sand. I suppose I'll plant grass seed, but I am really not opposed to some kind of patio made of pavers.

I'm in a bit of a rush, as I have three dogs (including one pretty expensive puppy) who lie in the sand and drag it in my house. Argghh! Also it's a constant struggle to keep the puppy from eating both rocks and sand, neither of which are good for him!

I know this might seem vague, but that's because I'm at a loss here. My husband would have known exactly what to do. I don't know where to turn and I don't have a lot of money to spend.

Thanks in advance!
Lynne in IL

 

[oh'mike]

Howdy Lynne---welcome----If you know how to post a picture --that would help.

The sand can probably be left and mixed with some top soil,using a rototiller--then grass seed and water.

Turning that into a patio area with blocks is another possibility---but might require bringing in some limestone screenings (fine limestone almost like sand--also called 'fines')

This is a stable base for the patio stones--You are in Illinois so I know that you will have no problem getting a load delivered.

As to the old concrete piers---yuck---dig them out or cut them off below the ground level.

----Mike-----

 

[LynneM]

I do know how to post a pic, and will do so asap. (Meaning when the puppy takes a nap.)

Who would I even call about this stuff? My son in law talks about breaking up the cement things, but it's yet to happen. I'm just at the point where I'd rather pay someone than go on this way. Seriously, if the rocks/sand cause a blockage in my dog, that surgery is probably going to cost me more than this yard will!

I called the builder we used (house was rebuilt 3 years ago after a house fire), just to ask him where to get help, but haven't heard back from him. The holiday weekend is probably the reason for that.

Thanks so much for your help!

 

[oh'mike]

A landscaper has the the skill that is needed----dirt---sledge hammers---wheel barrows --rakes ---you get the picture.

this is not advanced skills---just common sense and a strong back!:laughing:

If you see a landscape crew working hard,go have a chat with the guys.(you do speak spanish?)---That's a joke---Mike--

 

[LynneM]

Ok, landscapers were my guess, but I wasn't sure.

Pretty brave, there Mike. You can't see me. How do you know I'm not Latina?

 

[oh'mike]

Ok, landscapers were my guess, but I wasn't sure.
. How do you know I'm not Latina?

Call me Miguel----------------:whistling2:

 

[creeper]

Hi Lynne,

While you wait for the job to begin you could try to deter the pup with terrible tasting substances on the rocks like vinegar. If that doesn't work I'm sure the pet store would have a more expensive solution