Building Steps on dirt slope/ questions

 

I plan to build some steps into a sloped hill, using timbers.  I had some
built about ten years ago, and used PT lumber  rated for ground contact,
which was  .8  penetration level.

I know that the chemicals used, and applicable ratings, have now changed for
PT lumber.   What would the equivalent now be for what was   .8  "ground
contact"   ??

I also previously used 12 inch galvanized sprial nails to connect the
timbers to make the steps.  Will these nails be ok for the new type treated
lumber ?   I buy them at Home Depot, and they are not labeled  hot dipped or
anything like that.  They just say, galvanized nails.

I "think"  that I will use  6 x  6  PT beams, like I did before.  But, some
articles refer to "landscape timbers."  Exactly what are they referring to ?
I don't want to use railroad ties... I want a more updated look, which the
6 X 6  beams provide.  But, there may be a more suitable and long lasting
type timber that I should use, and I would like to know more about my
options.

Thanks for any advice on these many questions !!

James

 

James wrote:
...


If there are any small, local mills around, see if you can get them to
cut you some black locust...

--

 

I would use pressure treated fir.  The type now used is somewhat
safe.......copper ammonia base I believe.
I would use 1/2" x 12" or so rebar pins.  Cheap way to go and last a
lifetime.
Railroad ties are nice and do have the "heavy duty" oils in them for
protection although it is hard to find "nice" ones.
I almost did an extensive path like this just the last month or so.  Got
hung up with inspectors etc. so through in the towel.
The path was an existing use path for 100 years, (and then some)and had been
worked on off and on by residents, owners etc. and they wanted a contractor
to come in and do it right.  Well going to the official Building Dept. put a
wrench in the gears immediately.  Of course we needed an enviornmental
study.......and review with the coastal commission.   Also a endangered
plant and animal study.....and then...you name it.  I should have just put
it in......now people slip and slide down a gravel dirt, mess still using
the path....I tell you, the official business bs really hampers
progress.......john

 


If you can find 6x6 that is already at the length you want.  The
biggest problem with pt wood is penetration.  It almost never fully
penetrates in 6x6's.  Then you cut it and expose untreated wood in the
center to ground contact.  If you have ever torn down and old 6x6
retaining wall you see that they have rotted out the worst from the
insides at the cut ends.   If you must cut then treat the exposed ends
with some tar.

Railroad ties are the best solution.  Landscape timbers are those
smaller round pt timbers that have flat spots opposite each other.
They are very cheap so if rebuilidng periodically is going to happen
they would be the least costly.

 

Wood ALWAYS ROTS!!!:(

How about that fake plastic wood from recycled plastic, or concrete
steps paving stones etc.

At least they wouldnt rot and can be reset if needed