Okay, so I’ve been meaning to build a decent support for my volleyball net in the backyard. I didn’t want to spend a fortune, and I wanted something that would last. I saw some stuff online about using LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) for projects, and someone mentioned using it as a “sleeper timber.” Sounded interesting, so I figured I’d give it a shot.

First, I measured out the area where I wanted the net to go. Got a good idea of the length I needed for the support beams. Then, I headed to the local hardware store. I’m no expert, but I asked one of the guys there about LVL, and he pointed me to some sturdy-looking pieces. I picked out a couple that seemed like the right size – I think they were about 4×6 inches, and I got them cut to the length I needed, plus a bit extra, just in case.

Next, it was time to dig. I dug two holes, one for each end of the net, where the LVL timbers would go. This was probably the hardest part, honestly. My soil is pretty rocky, so it took some effort. I made sure the holes were deep enough to give the timbers good support – maybe about 2 or 3 feet deep, I think. The goal was to bury part of the timber to keep it nice and stable.

Once the holes were ready, I placed the LVL timbers in them. I made sure they were level and lined up with where I wanted the net to be. It took a little adjusting, shifting them around until they were just right.

Then came the concrete. I mixed up some quick-setting concrete – the kind you just add water to – in a wheelbarrow. I carefully poured the concrete around the timbers in the holes, making sure to fill them up completely. I used a stick to poke around and get rid of any air bubbles.

After that, it was just a matter of waiting. I let the concrete set for a couple of days, just to be sure. I didn’t want to mess with it too soon and risk it shifting.

Once every is ok, I installed my volleyball net.

Finally, the fun part! I attached the volleyball net to the LVL timbers.I used large eye hooks. Now the net work well and have a good support.

Overall, I’m pretty happy with how it turned out. It’s definitely solid, and it looks way better than just sticking some random poles in the ground. Plus, I didn’t have to break the bank to do it. If you’re looking for a relatively easy and inexpensive way to put up a volleyball net, this LVL sleeper timber thing is definitely worth considering.