Tie Wall Construction Methods
Figure the Dimensions of the Tie Wall
With a string line and some stakes I outlined the dimensions of my tie wall. Using a string line level, Ileveled the string to a height slightly above the highest railroad tie.
The idea was to create a level line just above the top of my tie wall. From the line I could measure down to level the dirt.
Digging to Level the Ground
Now that I had a level string line, I dug out the ground to make a level bed for the railroad ties. In addition to measuring down from the string line, I used a 3 foot level. The true test to level comes when you set a tie in place. Only then will you know if your wall is truly level. Don't forget to take a visual with your eyes every now and then. What you see can give a better clue to haow your wall is lining up.
How to Build a Tie Wall notes
- Tie dimensions 6" X 8" X 8'.
- I used a string line to mark the general tie wall dimensions.
- Use string line and a line level to find your highest tie wall point .
- Start your tie wall from the lowest point and work your way out.
- Instead of setting ties directly even on top of each other, stagger the next row toward the fill about 1 inch.
- I used 3/8" (DIA) X 12" (LONG) galvanized nails to secure each tie row to the underlying tie row.
Measure from the String Line
The string line is very handy for keeping your dig straight and level. As I dug the ground level I took measurements along the way to ensure I was staying level.
Building the first row of Ties
As I worked my way down the first row I set ties in place. The 3 foot level was used to verify the ties were stil level. It is a good idea to step back and make sure the tie wall is straight by looking down the entire run of ties.
Building the Tie Wall with Additional Tie Rows
After the entire first row of ties is set and leveled a second row of ties can be added. Remember to stagger the the tie joints to ensure a solid wall.
Normally ties would be cut in half to stagger tie joints. Use whatever dimension you need to stagger the joints. The second row of ties was set in place and staggered into the fill side of the tie wall about 1/2". In other words, looking down the wall it would look like it leans in to the fill side. Once a second row is completed the ties need to be fastened to one another. I used 3/8" X 12" galvanized nails. A pilot hole should be used to prevent bending the nail while hammering through the ties. Typically, I installed 3 to 4 nails per tie. Repeat the nailing process for each additional row of ties.