How long can thin pressure treated wood last in soil?

[AZ Manager]

Originally Posted by rhbj03

if using rebar, does it have to be any special type with special protective coating?

Also, how do i secure the wood boards to the rebar?

You put the rebar into the wood not infront of it. Using 6x6 lumber you want at least 2 pieces of rebar per step at 18" long (if doing very long runs of lumber space them 4' apart) -- no tie backs on a single layer so I'd probably go to 24". Pre-drill the wood and hammer/hammer drill (a normal drill will not work) the rebar flush with the top of the wood; this is how to build the base of a lumber retaining wall so it will work more than well enough on your steps and should last longer than your lifetime.

I've got a 3' tall retaining wall I built to level off a sloped back yard more than 10 years ago that is still standing strong using this method.

[ChessieMom]

Originally Posted by rhbj03

if using rebar, does it have to be any special type with special protective coating?

Also, how do i secure the wood boards to the rebar?

Just regular ol rebar. I drilled holes through the lumber with a half-inch drill bit, hammered rebar into the ground though the holes. I used timbers, just set on each other. They don't move.