Let’s talk about yard games. I love them. Obsessed.
If I’m at a wedding reception and there’s cornhole or washers out… my wife knows she’s pretty much on her own for the rest of the night. (I know this is not good…sometimes I am actually a good husband).
And now for the fun part: Top Choice is officially offering installation of some backyard classics — washers and horseshoes.
Washers: The Texas Way
If you look up “washers” on Wikipedia (here), you’ll find about ten different ways to play. But we’re Texans, so naturally, we go with the Texas Version — no explanation needed, right y’all?
Here’s how we build it:
- Game pads: 4 ft x 4 ft squares with a centered hole
- Cup size: 3-inch PVC is standard, but 4-inch makes it easier (and more fun) to score those ringers
- Distance: 21 ft from center to center between boxes
- Surface: We use crushed granite for a clean, durable, and low-dust play area
We’ll handle grading, edging, installation, and cleanup so all you have to do is grab a cold drink and start tossing.
Scoring (our house rules)
- Closest washer: 1 point
- Leaner (touching): 2 points
- See-through leaner” (partially through): 3 points
- Ringer (nothing but cup): 5 points
There are a dozen variations out there, so our advice: agree on your scoring before you start and stick with it.
Horseshoes: A Backyard Classic with Serious History
I’ll admit — I don’t play much (mostly because I hate losing). But horseshoes is one of the oldest backyard games still going strong.
It’s been traced back to Greek and Roman discus competitions, then picked up by American soldiers during the Revolutionary War. More info here.
Fun fact: the first national championship was held in Kansas in 1909 — the winner took home a whopping $2.50.
Modern setup:
- Stakes: 40 ft apart
- Pits: Standard 3 ft x 6 ft, though we can customize size and materials
- Material: We recommend sand or decomposed granite for easy maintenance and a clean look
Our crews can design and install a custom horseshoe pit that fits your yard’s layout and aesthetic —whether that’s rustic Hill Country or modern Austin minimalism.
Washer boards. Horseshoe pits. Landscape lighting. We can build it all so your backyard becomes the gathering spot this season.
Ready to upgrade your outdoor space?