You have a project that requires some earth retention and you’re trying to figure out the best way to go about it.
You could use a reinforced concrete retaining wall, but that may be too expensive. A timber retaining wall might be a better option for you because they are usually less expensive than concrete, plus they can be adapted to your needs and look more natural.
But before you decide to use a timber retaining wall, there are some things you should know. In this article, we’ll discuss when to use a timber retaining wall, what type of timber to use, and when it’s not the best option. Keep reading to learn more!
Or you can find more info on our timber retaining walls page
Here are the 7 Reasons to use a Timber Retaining Wall
There are many reasons why you might want to use a timber retaining wall instead of another type of retaining wall. Each type of wall does have benefits in its own right.
Here are some of the benefits of using a timber retaining wall:
- Cost-effective
Timber retaining walls are one of the most affordable types of wall, depending on the species of timber you choose. Softwoods are usually cheaper than hardwoods but softwood does not last as long.
- Can be adapted to your needs
Timber walls can be easily adapted to your project requirements. You can use different timbers and construct the wall in most shapes or sizes that you need.
- Natural look
Timber has a natural look that can be a great addition or blend into any landscape. It also ages well, so it will still look good years after it’s been installed.
Timber for retaining walls may be in any natural appearance, such as round logs or rough-sawn planks and posts. It can also be milled with a machined finish or dressed which gives it a smooth finish.
- Easy to construct
Timber retaining walls are relatively easy to construct and usually only require one trade to complete the work or are a great DIY project.
- Versatile
Timber retaining walls are very versatile. They can be used for a variety of applications, including garden beds, boundary retention, feature walls, retaining near waterways and are easily adaptable to allow the addition of a fence on top.
- Provides drainage redirection
Any water overflow can be redirected to a stormwater drain by using the wall’s drainage system. This then stops most of the seepage through the wall keeping the area in front of the wall relatively dry.
- Can be used in difficult terrain
Timber walls can be used in most types of terrain. A steep site is often retained by the use of multiple walls giving the terracing effect or by using one big wall.
Tight areas are also suited to timber walls as long as they are not too high and posts can be manhandled.
Types of Timber to use in your Retaining Wall
There are a few things you need to take into account when choosing the type of timber for your retaining wall. Depending on the height and length of the wall, the weight of the earth behind it, and the climate, different timbers should be used.
Here are some common timbers used in retaining walls and their benefits:
Hardwoods
Hardwoods are one of the best options for timber walls. They are strong and durable, making them perfect for taller or longer walls. Hardwoods also have a natural resistance to rot and decay, so they will last longer in damp or humid conditions.
However, hardwoods are more expensive than softwoods and can be difficult to find. They are also more difficult to work with, so you may need to hire a professional to help with the construction of your wall.
Some examples of hardwoods used in retaining walls are
- Blue gums
- Ironbark
- Spotted gums
Railway Sleepers
Railway sleepers are a hardwood that is often used in retaining walls to give the rustic look. They are strong and durable with a natural resistance to rot and decay.
Depending on the condition of the sleepers, they will outlast many materials lasting decades without maintenance issues.
However, railway sleepers can be difficult to find and are more expensive than softwoods. They are also more difficult to work with so plan your wall with minimal cuts.
Softwoods
Softwoods are a cheaper option than hardwoods and are easier to find. They are also easier to work with, so you may be able to build the wall yourself.
However, softwoods are not as strong or durable as hardwoods and they are more susceptible to rot and decay. This means that they may not last as long and will require chemical treatment to allow them to be used in outdoor conditions.
Some examples of softwoods used in retaining walls are
- Radiata pines
Engineered Timber
Engineered timbers are manufactured products that are designed to be stronger and more durable than natural timber. They are also less likely to rot or decay.
Engineered lumbers are more expensive than natural timber, but they are sometimes used for taller or longer walls.
Disadvantages of Timber Retaining Walls
There are a few disadvantages to using timber retaining walls. These include:
- they are susceptible to rot and decay
- most softwoods are treated with chemicals
- they will not last as long as most other materials apart from a good quality timber sleeper treated in creosote
- timber walls are usually engineered for the current conditions, if an extra surcharge is added via driveways or structures above it is possible they will fail, whereas a rock wall may not.
- tree trunks dictate the maximum height of a timber wall
- tree roots may cause the wall to fail easier than other materials such as rock, reinforced concrete and reinforced blocks
Other Types of Retaining Walls
There are many different types of retaining walls and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The type of wall you choose will depend on the purpose of the wall, the height to be retained, the space to work with, drainage requirements, existing materials used on-site and finally your budget.
Here are some common types of retaining walls:
- Rock walls
- Stone walls
- Dry stacked concrete blocks
- Reinforced concrete blocks
- Reinforced concrete
- Brick walls
- Gabion walls
- Concrete sleeper retaining walls
- Crib walls
Conclusion
If you’re considering a retaining wall for your property, timber may be the best option.
With a lower price tag than most other types of walls and the possibility of being a DIY project, timber is an attractive option for many people. Plus, its natural look can help it blend in with its surroundings and is a good option for tight spaces.
So why not give timber a try? You may be surprised at how easy and affordable a Timber Retaining Wall is to build or have built.
For full info on a timber retaining wall use this link to go to our timber retaining walls page.
