Bulkheads

Deadmen

Deadmen are treated wood posts or timbers buried behind (land side) your bulkhead to support the wall and prevent top failure in the case of particularly heavy loads due to rain or slopes. Deadmen are connected to the wall via the tie rods. Deadmen are a part of every bulkhead system.

Tie Rods

Tie Rods are galvanized steel rods with threaded ends used to connect the deadmen to the wall to support the vinyl bulkhead and prevent top failure – especially in cases of heavier-than-normal load.

Front Wale

The front wale is the treated timber on the front (water side) of the vinyl bulkhead.  Together with the back board the front wale keeps the bulkhead straight, increases its strength, and connects it to the deadmen via the tie rods.

Back Board

The back board is the treated timber or lumber on the back side of the vinyl bulkhead.  Often buried below ground level, the back board connects to the front wale to keep the bulkhead straight while improving its overall strength properties.

Hardware

We supply all the hardware you need to complete your bulkhead.  The hardware required for a vinyl bulkhead includes:

  • Screws
  • Lag Screws
  • Bolts or All Thread with Nuts & Washers

Top Cap

The top cap is usually made of 2″x12″ or 2″x16″ treated lumber.  While the top cap is mostly cosmetic it also adds structural strength to your vinyl bulkhead and provides a nice place to sit by the water.

Other Project Supplies

Decks & Piers
Boat Houses
Pavilions & Gazebos
Camp & House Foundations