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There are a few backyard jobs that get harder when you really start to dig, and they become unexpectedly challenging, sometimes to the point you actually have to stop the project! This is an obvious disaster that can cost a lot of time, money, and embarrassment. So what are these jobs you need to be aware of? From digging into soil to patio and decking maintenance, here are a few that can trick you into thinking they are easy but are actually much more challenging.
Dealing with Tree Roots
Tree maintenance is one of those things that looks pretty easy at first glance, but becomes quite a challenge when you actually progress. That’s why it’s always recommended to call a tree expert, as they are qualified to remove branches and roots safely. However, you can use a standard chain saw for small maintenance jobs such as trimming growth. However, hitting large roots while trying to dig even a small hole can instantly bring a project to a screaming halt!
Soil Backyard Jobs That Get Harder
Digging in dense soil is one of the hardest manual jobs you can do in a backyard or garden. Underneath nutrient-rich soil could lie many different types of layers, and these can slow progress, or even be brutal on your back’s health. The layers include the following:
- Dense clay and subsoil that is heavy and sticky when wet, or hard as brick when dry.
- Hardpan or compacted layers that force high physical impact that can jar your back.
- Sony glacial till packed with clay, sand, and silt that can hurt when struck with a shovel.
Removing Sod from the Ground
Sod is a section of the grass surface that is cut and then torn from the ground. As such, it comes with matted roots and other growth that can make it hard to remove from an area, especially a large space. While the actual cutting is easy, it is the lifting, rolling, and moving the sod that catches people off guard. Doing this over and over again requires some serious physical strength and stamina, even with tools and wheelbarrows, so make sure you are up to it!
Managing Garden Weeds
Weeds are of course a major part of gardening, and you will need to learn how to manage them to get the most from your backyard. However, even something as simple as pulling weeds looks easy enough, until you go on and on, and there appears to be no end in sight! An overrun area that has been neglected can be a massive weed haven, and this makes it harder to remove them, as they can actually establish a very tough and stubborn root system in your garden.
Backyard Jobs That Get Harder in the Brush
Over 80% of people with a garden enjoy getting dirty and sprucing it up. However, clearing brush is one of those backyard jobs that gets harder than you initially think and over time as you get older! However, there are a few things you can try to make sure the back doesn’t take a hit.
Bend your knees
One of the most helpful methods of lowering the pressure on your back is by bending your knees when lowering your body with your legs to pick up piles of heavy brush.
Switch between tasks
There are a few different tasks when clearing brush, and doing one for too long can cause strain. It is helpful to switch between cutting, raking, and lifting to reset different muscle groups.
Use long-handled tools
Bending over and over again causes strain on the muscles. However, you can simply use long-handled versions of tools such as pruners, loppers, and brush hooks to save your back.
Spreading Mulch and Gravel
Mulch and gravel are among the most essential things for a healthy backyard, and spreading them is easy enough. That is until you realize you have seriously underestimated the area that must be covered! The shoveling, borrowing, and spreading required can really take it out of you, especially if you aren’t used to physical labor. As such, the heavy materials you need to spread will leave your legs and arms like jelly, and you will be exhausted after you have finished.
Tackling Pest Infestations
One of the most critical jobs in a backyard, or any garden for that matter, is tackling pests. Even after getting over the dilemma of actually killing pests, this is a job that gets harder because it often requires repeated treatments. Eliminating a nest or even localized bugs can become frustrating because it feels like your efforts aren’t paying off. They are, but you need to apply pest treatments on an ongoing basis until the issue is gone, and this becomes very tedious.
Patio Backyard Jobs That Get Harder
Patios and decking are very popular because they provide stable ground to relax and enjoy your space. However, they do require some maintenance to keep them looking good and staying safe, but can be a challenge if left for too long. However, here are some simple tips:
- Sweep up, clear board gaps, and wash spills on a regular routine to prevent damage.
- Each season, do a deep clean with a pressure washer and apply algae treatment.
- Every now and then, check fixings, sand rough spots, and reseal wood and gaps.
Edging the Lawn by Hand
Is there anything more satisfying in a family backyard (or front) than an emerald green, crisp lawn? Lawn care alone is a pretty challenging task for any homeowner, as you need to take care of it all year round. However, this becomes even harder when you want to edge a lawn by hand! Keeping a neat and tidy line around a sprawling lawn can test your patience and sanity, as well as your physical endurance. If in doubt, just pick up the phone and call a specialist.
Summary
Dealing with tree roots is one of those backyard jobs that gets harder through a project, even though it can look relatively easy at the start. However, even clearing brush can be deceptively challenging given the amount of work that it requires. And if you love a crisp and clean lawn edge, be prepared to have your physical endurance, patience, and sanity put to the test!
