How to Replace a Cross Tie Retaining Wall

Determine how many of the cross ties need to be replaced. Inspect each one: identify any that look loose, dry-rotted or splintered by marking each with a small band of fluorescent spray paint. Once you’ve identified the ones that need attention, closely inspect each of the marked ties. If they’re dry-rotted or loose enough, chances are they can be dug out from the wall with minimal fuss.

Start at the topmost tie or ties that need to be replaced in the wall and drive rebar stakes into the joints between the “bad” tie and the “good” tie underneath it. Use roughly three to four rebar stakes per cross tie to ensure there’s enough stability as you remove the old timber. Put on leather work gloves and goggles then dig out the bad tie with a garden spade. Once the largest pieces have been removed, pull the rest out by hand until the space is clear.

Measure the open slot and cut a new tie to size if necessary. Slide the new tie in place -- chances are you’ll need an additional hand to line up the tie with the slot in the wall -- then hammer it firmly into the slot with at least a 10-pound sledgehammer. Remove the rebar stakes and move on to the next marked tie. Work from the top of the wall to the bottommost tie that needs to be replaced. Move along the wall in this method to remove and replace each tie, from top to bottom, if the entire wall needs to be replaced.