![]() You will be given the total number of retaining wall blocks needed. Input the height and length of one of your chosen blocks. Input the height and length of the retaining wall. A cap row is the topmost row of the retaining wall, reaching higher than the wall's actual height, which is often used for decoration. ![]() Start by deciding whether your retaining wall will have a cap row (pick "Yes" or "No" at the very top of the calculator). Calculating the number of retaining wall blocks: Wear a mask to avoid breathing in any dust from cutting pressure treated wood.The retaining wall calculator may seem complicated at first, but don't worry! Just follow this simple set of instructions, and you will get your calculations done in no time.ġ. Alternatively, use a chainsaw to cut the timber. To use a circular saw, you will need to cut one edge, rotate the timber, cut again, and continue this until you have complete sawn through the timber. Timbers are too thick to cut with a standard circular saw in one cut. Extend the filter fabric at least 6-inches past the drainage stone. Extend the fabric up the back of the timbers and attach with construction adhesive. When you get to the top of the wall, place filter fabric above the drainage stone. Continue placing the drainage stone to within 4-inches of the of the wall. ![]() An outlet in the middle will require a hole in the timbers.Ĭompact the drainage stone with a hand tamper. The lowest point may either be at the end of the wall or somewhere in the middle. Plan an outlet for the pipe the lowest points on the wall. Run a 3-in or 4-in perforated pipe behind the wall and outlet every 30 to 40 ft. This, combined with the clean crushed stone used for the base, will help the water drain underneath the wall. Place a minimum of 12-inches of drainage stone (a clean crushed rock such as No. This means you need special accommodations to ensure water does not build up behind the wall. ![]() Water cannot easily flow through wood like it can through porous segmental blocks. Space the nails or screws every 2-ft along the timber. These alternative coatings are fine for an above ground deck, but they do not provide the necessary corrosion protection needed for pressure treated wood that is in contact with the ground. Do not use electroplated (or zinc plated), uncoated, painted, or other type of coating unless it is rated for ACQ pressure treatment. Because the copper in the pressure treatment is corrosive, use hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails/screws. Place the side with quarters near the fill side of the timber when leveling from front to back.Īttach each row of timbers to the one below using 3/8″x12″ galvanized nails*, 12″ stainless steel screws*, or 12″ ACQ approved coated screw*. To accomplish this, tape 6 quarters on one end of your torpedo level. This will help the retaining wall look vertical after completing the wall. If there is no convincing you of building your retaining wall with a 1/2-inch offset, then batter the timbers toward the backfill side by 5-degrees. Vertical wood walls also look like they are leaning out, even if they are built straight. These walls also lean out and fail over time. Note: Many retaining walls are built without offsetting each row. This timber retaining wall has a slight visual lean because it was not built with a setback or batter. This dramatically helps with the stability of the wall. Also, set each row of timbers with a 1/2-inch setback from the one below. Aim to place at least a quarter of the length of the timber past a joint (for 8-ft timbers, this is at least 2-ft). This helps the stability of the retaining wall. Stagger the joints of the next row of timbers from the ones below. Drive the rebar through the holes with a sledge hammer. The length of the rebar* should be at least 2-ft. The holes should be the same diameter as the rebar. Use a deadblow* or small sledge hammer* to adjust the timbers.ĭrill two holes at 4-ft apart on each timber on the bottom row. Use a torpedo level* to level the timber from front to back. Then, ensure the timbers are completely level along the length of the timber by using a 4-ft level*. Start at a corner or structure that you are abutting against. Place the first row of timbers directly on the crushed rock base. Driving rebar* through first row of timbers.
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