Wood Retaining Wall

[Hello Newman]

I've evaluated all available materials on value added to our home. I've decided on 6x6 pre-treated for a retaining wall. I've heard the term "deadman" in terms of a perpendicular piece to the wall face, but how far back into the ground does it go and is it connected to anything? Any suggestions on construction of this wall?

[Rich]

I've never done one out of wood before - only concrete or block. With concrete or block a footing takes up most of the overturning moment. For wood I would probably take the 6x6 and embed it into the ground about 4' minimum - then the deadmen would be minimal. Personally I wouldn't do it out of wood - but, as stated, that's just a personal opinion. Any wood will eventually deteriorate (rot).
You should probably consult a local engineer to give you sizes, embedments, etc for your specific site conditions.

[Hello Newman]

We're using 6x6 to match the fence that will meet the wall on each side for a matched look. The boards will be laid horizontally. The deadmen, as I understand, would then be laid parallel to the ground, but perpendicular to the face of the wall. Are you recommending the deadmen run 4' deep into the slope?

[Rich]

I was saying running the posts at least 4' into the ground. I have no idea on the deadmen - I would say 4' would be a minimum - depending on how tall the fence is and what soil conditions there are.

[roger g]

The way I've seen it done is parallel to the ground and parallel to the wall. I really don't know how long the deadman is or how far away from the wall. I've seen railroad ties used and old telephone poles (pieces). I've also seen those wire baskets/cages (can't think of the name right now) filled with rocks and attached with a cable to the wall. There are things called "earth anchors" which auger into the ground. Usually used by Electric Companies and telephone companies to attach guy wires to. I saw them once use a 2 man post hole digger with an attachment auger them into the ground, then bury the whole thing.
Lots of different ways of doing it. It depends on how high you are going and if the wall collapses where is it going to go. If liability isn't a concern you can try whatever you want.

roger