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Old 09-07-2010, 02:53 AM posted to alt.building.construction,alt.home.lawn.garden,alt.home.repair
James James is offline
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First recorded activity by GardenBanter: Jul 2006
Posts: 93
Default Building Steps on dirt slope/ questions

I plan to build some steps into a sloped hill, using timbers. I had some
built about ten years ago, and used PT lumber rated for ground contact,
which was .8 penetration level.

I know that the chemicals used, and applicable ratings, have now changed for
PT lumber. What would the equivalent now be for what was .8 "ground
contact" ??

I also previously used 12 inch galvanized sprial nails to connect the
timbers to make the steps. Will these nails be ok for the new type treated
lumber ? I buy them at Home Depot, and they are not labeled hot dipped or
anything like that. They just say, galvanized nails.

I "think" that I will use 6 x 6 PT beams, like I did before. But, some
articles refer to "landscape timbers." Exactly what are they referring to ?
I don't want to use railroad ties... I want a more updated look, which the
6 X 6 beams provide. But, there may be a more suitable and long lasting
type timber that I should use, and I would like to know more about my
options.

Thanks for any advice on these many questions !!

James