How To Build A Retaining Wall With Wood Timbers

Retaining walls are a great way to add structure and style to your landscape. They can also be used to prevent erosion and flooding. If you're thinking about building a retaining wall, there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind.

1. Choosing the Right Wood

The type of wood you choose for your retaining wall will depend on the climate you live in and the amount of moisture the wall will be exposed to. In general, pressure-treated wood is a good choice for retaining walls, as it is resistant to rot and decay. However, if you live in a dry climate, you may be able to get away with using untreated wood.

2. Digging the Footing

The footing is the foundation of your retaining wall. It's important to dig a footing that is wide enough and deep enough to support the weight of the wall. The footing should be at least 12 inches wide and 6 inches deep. If you're building a wall that is more than 4 feet tall, you may need to dig a deeper footing.

3. Laying the Timbers

Once the footing is in place, you can start laying the timbers. The timbers should be laid horizontally, with the ends of the timbers overlapping by at least 6 inches. You can use galvanized nails or screws to secure the timbers together.

4. Backfilling the Wall

Once the timbers are in place, you can backfill the wall with soil. The soil should be compacted as you backfill it. This will help to keep the wall in place and prevent it from collapsing.

5. Finishing Touches

Once the wall is backfilled, you can add some finishing touches. You can cap the top of the wall with a piece of lumber or metal. You can also add some plants or flowers to the wall to give it a more finished look.