Assembly Instructions
3
PREPARE
• Please research and follow
local building codes prior to
the excavation,
construction and assembly
of your project.
• Exercise caution when you
work with Concrete Block
designs. Wear protective
safety equipment such
as safety glasses, dust
masks, gloves and a hard
hat.
• Whether you plan to build
the project yourself or to
hire a professional, every
project requires a call to
mark your utility lines.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN:
A solid foundation is necessary to prevent settling and tiling of each project. We recommend using a leveling
pad, unless local building code requires you to pour a concrete foundation or build another type of foundation.
FOUNDATION
• Choose the location for the completed project; place and mark the position of the base layer of blocks.
Once marked, remove the blocks and the organic top soil within the marked area.
• If applicable to your area, create a leveling pad with a non-frost susceptible, well graded, compacted
angular gravel-sand mixture with fines (GW as per ASTM D248). The leveling pad should be a minimum
of 4 to 6 inches thick. For leveling pads greater than 8” thick, the fill material shall be placed in more
than one lift. Each layer or lift of fill material shall be leveled and compacted to a 95% Standard Proctor
density before moving on.
• Once the top layer of fill material is compacted and level, place the base layer of blocks. The base layer
should sit 1 to 2 inches below grade to help further prevent shifting. Use additional fill material to level the
base layer as needed.
N OTE: If a concrete slab is required, prepare a leveling pad using the procedures listed in the paragraphs
above. The concrete should have a minimum compressive strength of 2500 psi. A 4-inch thick concrete slab
should be suicient. A thickened edge and reinforcement of the leveling slabs may be required. Please consult a
professional engineer for specific requirements.
TIPS FOR BUILDING LEVELING PADS
Please be sure you read and understand all instructions before you begin. These plans will walk you
through each step as you Prepare, Assemble and Enjoy the new addition to your yard. Check out the
Progress Bar at the bottom of each page to track your advancements as you complete each phase of your
project!
INSTRUCTIONS
It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, codes and regulations for
any project. Proper safety precautions must be taken prior to and during the construction of each project.
Please follow standard safety guidelines and wear necessary protective equipment when building and using
your new backyard addition.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Rubber Mallet
Level
Utility Knife
Caulk Gun
Protective Equipment
Tape Measure
Concrete Saw
TOOL CHECK LIST
Chisel
Standard Hammer