Install and Secure First Timber Course

What happens in this clip

Place the first course of pressure-treated timbers into the prepared trench, directly on the compacted crushed stone. Carefully align each timber with your established string lines. To secure the timbers to the ground, drill a series of holes through each timber. Then, drive 4-foot lengths of 1/2-inch rebar through these holes and into the ground below. When hammering the rebar, use a scrap piece of decking to protect the timber surface from damage. Throughout this process, regularly check the timbers for levelness using a torpedo level, both along their length and from front to back, adjusting as necessary until they are perfectly level.

Goal: Lay the first row of timbers, ensuring they are level and firmly anchored.

What's used

Tools

• 4-foot length of 1/2-inch rebar
• Drill
• Hammer
• Long drill bit
• Pressure-treated timbers
• Railroad ties
• Scrap piece of decking
• Torpedo level

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to construct a timber retaining wall. It covers everything from initial site layout and foundation preparation to laying courses of pressure-treated timbers, ensuring proper drainage, and installing 'deadmen' anchors for structural integrity. The process emphasizes precision in measurement and leveling for a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

Step 3 of 8: Install Retaining Timbers

Place the main retaining timbers into the excavated trench. Ensure they are level and plumb. For added stability, drive stakes into the ground behind the timbers and secure the timbers to the stakes with screws. Backfill lightly around the timbers to hold them in place.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Install Landscape Timber Borders
• Place First Timber Layer