Quck answer
Railroad tie retaining walls are commonly used to hold back soil and provide stability to slopes. Over time, these walls can become damaged or deteriorated. To repair a railroad tie retaining wall, follow these steps:
1. Assess the damage: Inspect the wall to identify any broken or rotten ties, loose connections, or signs of soil erosion.
2. Remove damaged ties: Use a pry bar or shovel to carefully remove the damaged ties from the wall. Dispose of them properly.
3. Replace ties: Install new railroad ties in the damaged areas. Make sure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.
4. Reinforce the wall: Add additional support by installing metal tie plates or brackets and anchor them to the ties.
5. Backfill and compact: Fill any gaps behind the wall with crushed stone or gravel. Compact the backfill to ensure stability.
6. Maintain the wall: Regularly inspect the retaining wall for any signs of damage or erosion. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
By following these steps, you can repair a railroad tie retaining wall and ensure its long-lasting stability.
Railroad ties are sturdy wooden beams that are commonly 7 by 9 inches and 8 feet, 6 inches long. They are treated with chemicals like creosote to prevent rot and pests. However, railroad ties containing creosote are not approved for residential use by the U.S. EPA. While it is not illegal to have an old railroad tie retaining wall on your property, it may be against local laws to build or repair a wall using railroad ties. Therefore, it is important to carefully assess the wall and determine the safest and most effective approach to repairing or rebuilding it.
Is the Wall Suitable for Repair?
When deciding how to proceed with your retaining wall, there are a few factors to consider: the height of the wall, the extent of damage, and the wall’s role in your landscape. If the wall is less than 3 feet tall and does not serve a critical function, such as holding back soil from the house or foundation, you can attempt to repair it yourself. However, if the damage is significant, it may be best to replace parts or the entire wall with new landscape timbers (not railroad ties) or other suitable materials. Before working on a railroad tie wall, contact your local city authorities for guidance on handling and disposing of old railroad ties.
Retaining walls taller than 3 feet and/or those that play a crucial role in the landscape, such as controlling drainage, should be assessed and repaired or replaced by a professional. Engineering expertise is necessary for tall walls or walls involved in directing water, as failure of old or new walls can cause substantial damage to your home or landscape.
Professional Options for Repairing Retaining Walls
Professionals have various approaches to repairing or replacing old railroad tie retaining walls. The first step is assessing the condition of the wall. If it cannot be repaired, the professionals will need to remove the materials in compliance with local disposal laws. This may involve the use of heavy equipment on your property. Homeowners will be responsible for the costs of removal and disposal.
If repairs are feasible, the professionals will likely begin by clearing vegetation around the wall. Trees, shrubs, and other plants may obstruct the repair process and contribute to wall deterioration due to moisture and root systems. The experts will then set up supports or scaffolding to ensure the stability of the wall during repair work.
Next Steps in Wall Repair
The professional team can replace damaged sections of the wall, such as pieces at the top or edges, with alternative lumber. For sections in the middle, soil nails, fencing, or geogrid can be used to provide support and prevent further damage. While not visually appealing, a metal mesh net can also be applied to the wall surface to prevent it from collapsing. Professional repair engineers or landscapers will strive to maintain the staggered appearance of your wall when integrating new pieces in accessible areas.
Include Proper Drainage and Slope
If the wall lacks adequate drainage, this could be the cause of the damage. Experts will ensure that the wall is placed on a compacted layer of gravel. If the wall was not initially built on this gravel, it is unlikely that it can be added now. However, drainage holes can be drilled in the wood throughout the wall to help with water runoff.
A professional will also evaluate the incline of your wall. It should have been constructed to lean against the slope behind it. This is referred to as battering. If your current retaining wall is not secured to the slope, your repair team may be able to adjust its battering while anchoring it to the slope.
