Landscape timbers are one of the most versatile and cost-effective materials for outdoor projects. From raised garden beds and walkways to retaining walls and edging, these heavy-duty wood beams offer both structural support and visual appeal. But installing landscape timbers incorrectly can lead to warping, rot, shifting, and costly replacements down the road. At Southern Landscape Supply in Cumming, GA, we want to help homeowners across North Georgia get it right the first time. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid and tips to make your timbers last in Georgia’s hot, humid climate.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Ground Prep
One of the biggest installation errors is placing landscape timbers directly on soft, uneven ground. Georgia’s red clay soil retains water and expands easily, which can cause timbers to shift, sink, or rot prematurely. To avoid this, always level the ground and add a base layer of gravel or sand for proper drainage. This helps keep your timbers stable and reduces direct contact with moisture.
Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Fasteners
Improper fasteners can lead to structural failure. Some homeowners use nails or regular screws, which don’t hold up well in outdoor conditions. Instead, use rebar stakes, galvanized spikes, or landscape timber screws, which are corrosion-resistant and designed for heavy-duty outdoor use. In areas like Forsyth County, where heavy summer rains are common, durable fastening is critical to keep timbers from shifting or bowing.
Mistake #3: Not Treating Cut Ends
Even if your landscape timbers are pressure-treated, the moment you make a cut, you expose untreated wood. Failing to treat those cut ends leaves the timber vulnerable to rot and insect damage—especially in Georgia’s warm, moist environment. Use a wood preservative to seal every cut before installation.
Mistake #4: Overlooking Drainage
Poor drainage is one of the top reasons timber installations fail prematurely. If water pools around your timber project, it can cause swelling, warping, and fungal growth. Always allow for proper runoff by sloping the installation area slightly away from the structure or incorporating a drainage system when building retaining walls.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Even pressure-treated wood needs attention to stay in good shape. Without basic upkeep, the average landscape timber lasts 7–10 years, but with care, you can extend that to 15 years or more. Once installed, clean the timbers annually to remove dirt and mildew. Applying a UV-blocking wood sealant every couple of years will also help protect against Georgia’s intense summer sun.
Build it Right with Southern Landscape Supply
At Southern Landscape Supply in Cumming, GA, we provide high-quality, pressure-treated landscape timbers and expert advice to homeowners and contractors throughout Forsyth County and the North Georgia region. Whether you’re starting a backyard renovation or building a retaining wall, we can guide you through the right products and techniques for long-term success.
Contact Southern Landscape Supply today or stop by our Cumming location to get professional tips, quality materials, and everything you need for a successful landscape timber project.