Landscape timbers are a versatile building medium that can be used for a variety of projects. These lengths of rounded wood are joined together using large screws, spikes, or rebar. One of the most common project choices for landscaping timbers is the construction of small flower or garden beds along houses or free-standing in an open area.
Mark the outline of your raised bed with wooden stakes. The stakes can be pushed into the ground or pounded gently with a sledgehammer. The raised bed should have straight edges to provide a better fit for the timbers.
Excavate the interior of the raised bed with the shovel. Dig to a depth of approximately 2 inches. Use a level to ensure that the interior of the raised bed is level around the edges of the bed where the landscaping timbers will be installed.
Measure the first side of the raised bed. Measure, mark and cut a corresponding piece of landscaping timber. Lay the timber along the edge of the side. If one landscaping timber is not long enough, measure the gap, mark, cut and lay a second piece of timber to fit. Slide the ends of the timber tightly together.
Measure, mark and cut a corresponding piece of timber for the second side of the raised bed. Continue cutting and laying out the timbers until the timbers surround the raised bed.
Insert the drill bit into the drill. Measure and mark the landscaping timbers 3 inches from each end. Center the drill bit on each measurement and drill a hole through the timber.
Place a spike in each hole and pound the spike flat with the surface of the timber using the sledgehammer.
Lay a second layer of landscaping timber on top of the existing, secured layer using the same procedure. Stagger the second layer so that none of the ends are in the same position as the previous layer.
Measure and mark the second layer of landscaping timbers 3 inches from each end. Make sure the markings do not occur over the spikes driven on the first layer. Adjust measurements toward the center of the timber to avoid conflicts. Center the drill bit on each measurement and drill a hole through both layers of timber.
Place a spike in each hole and pound the spike flat with the surface of the timber using the sledgehammer. Add more layers of landscaping timbers if desired.
Things You Will Need
- Wooden stakes
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- 1/2-inch drill bit, 12 inches long
- 12-inch spikes
- More layers of landscaping timber can be installed until the bed is the desired height. The spikes will hold the timbers together to ensure a durable, long-lasting bed.
- Work gloves and safety glasses are recommended during construction to prevent injuries.
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