Why do I suggest digging deeper that 1.5 feet deep? Posts set 1.5 feet deep with a leverage handle of 30" in relatively soft ground will probably result in the posts leaning all too soon, or even falling over, especially if they have no cement to anchor them. At that depth, even with cement, it is too shallow. Again, opinion, for what it's worth. Generally, I prefer to construct things a bit stronger to ensure I do not have to redo the project again, and again. I do not have the energy to do things multiple times. Steaming & Sparking over Terror Trestle in Eugene, Oregon ~ Gary http://www.angelfire.com/or/trainguy http://community.webshots.com/user/raltzenthor
| Hello, | | I bought some western red cedar, 2 x 4's and 4 x 4's, to begin | construction of the elevated line. I have moved some plants, drawing | some inspiration from this picture: | http://www.gaugeone.org/images/LNWR.jpg but on a smaller and more | manageable scale. The line should be about 30" above the ground. I | have a half acre but a 20 x 40 ft. area should be a good start. Okay, | the real inspiration was catching a cold from having to get down on the | ground for operations and not wanting to go through the nasty cold | business again. | | I am located in the Harrisburg, PA, area and frost heave evidences | itself from time to time. I plan on digging post holes about a foot | and a half deep, filling the bottom with about two inches of gravel, | installing the post in the hole and then backfilling with dirt while | maintaining plumb. Based on this methodology, will the posts be | susceptible to the effects of frost heave? | | Thanks, | Joe |
