How to Use Timbers to Terrace a Yard

While there are many materials that can be used for terracing, treated wood timbers offer more advantages. It is easily obtained and is a natural product that blends in well with landscaping. It also makes steep sloped areas that were once useless into workable areas. Whether you want to create terraced gardens, layer grass or just stop flooding, terracing gives you options you may not have had. Terracing also prevents erosion in steep areas where heavy rains settle into the flat areas and soak in.

4-by-4-inch or 6-by-6-inch timbers
Thin wood shim sticks
Shovel
Tape measure
Mason's line
Level
Circular saw or bone saw
Drill with large bit
12-inch spikes
3-lb. sledgehammer
Soil or rock
Framing square
Garden rake

Instructions

- 1
  
  Use a measuring tape to check depth
  
  Figure out the run of the slope and its vertical distance or slope so you will know how many terrace areas you need. Beginning at the bottom of the slope, mark off the bed area and dig trenches that are 3 to 4 inches deep around the outer edge for timbers. Be sure that the trench is level by using a tape measure and level mason's line to check the depth. A mason line is a line that is raised and runs from one edge of your trench to the other that is level. Measuring will be made from the bottom of the trench to this line.
- 2
  
  Cut timber to fit
  
  Measure the length of each front and side section for timbers. Trim the timber to the desired length by cutting across the face with a circular or bow saw. Set the first course of timbers into the trenches, abutting the ends tightly together. Using a level, check to make sure they are set evenly. Remove soil or add more as needed to adjust the level.
- 3
  
  Layer timbers as level as possible
  
  Put the timbers for the second course over the first course, making sure to offset the joints by at least 4 inches and overlap the end corners. Use level again, but expect only a rough level due to timber irregularities. Do try to use timbers that are not too far off level. If needed, use the thin wood strips and shim the low ends. Then square the timbers at the corners, using a framing square.
- 4
  
  Rake out soil to level and smooth
  
  Every 4 feet, drill pilot holes that are a little smaller than a 12-inch spike. Make sure to drill in each corner as well and then drive a spike into every hole, using the sledgehammer. When complete, you will have two-timber open rectangle. Fill with soil and rake smooth. Repeat these steps for each terrace. The garden is now ready to plant grass seed, flowers or cover with rock.

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