Step 13: Attach Balance Weights

using a drill/driver to add weights to the board
Photo: Wendell T. Webber
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Use two weights to slow the descent of the board when a dog is on it. To make them, fill 12-inch lengths of pipes with gravel and cap both ends. Attach the weights as close to the end of the entry side as you can without raising the board off the ground. Secure the weights with metal strapping and 3/4-inch sheet-metal screws.
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    Tools List

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    • pvc saw
      Pull Saw
    • drill
      Drill/Driver
      with 1/16-inch bit, 3/8-inch bit, 5/8-inch paddle bit
    • combination square
      Combination Square
    • hammer
      Hammer
    • block wood
      Wood Block

    Shopping List

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    1 ½-inch schedule 40 PVC pipe. Get 100 feet.

    1 ½-inch PVC tees. Get 22.

    1 ½-inch PVC elbows. Get 10.

    1 ½-inch PVC end caps. Get 16.

    2-inch PVC. Get 12 inches.

    1x12 laminated shelving board. Get one 8-foot board

    2-inch U-strap. Get two.

    1½-inch 3/8-inch flathead bolts. Get four.

    3/8-inch washers. Get 16.

    3/8-inch locknuts. Get four.3/4-inch metal strapping

    3/4-inch sheet metal screws

    1-inch drywall screws

    Clear PVC cleaner

    Electrical tape in red, blue, and yellow

    Painter's tape

    Exterior primer

    Exterior flat paint in yellow

    Antiskid additive

    3 pounds of gravel