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Posted: Tue May 20, 2008 1:47 pm
by Bobby Spray
Hi, I have heard conflicting advice; I am building a small railway sleeper retaining wall. The sleepers are new and tanalised. The wall is about 0.5m high with 0.3 m underground. The soil is heavy clay. I have been told be some parties that I need to put a waterproof membrane at the back of the wall with pea shingle at the bottom. Others say don’t bother, let the water run out of the gaps in the wall. Who is right.

Thanks

Bobby

Posted: Tue May 20, 2008 4:04 pm
by Rich H
Both. It's all about how long you want it to last, and whether you're ok with 'dribbling' joints between the sleepers.

I do protect the timber, but I know those that don't. I use damp proof membrane (450mm roll if the wall is small enough or by the sheet if not), stapled on at the finished soil level. Shingle behind that will reduce the wet soil pressure on the wall.

Posted: Tue May 20, 2008 9:24 pm
by Pablo
I agree with Rich protect the wood and it'll last much longer and look a lot better.