![]() If this first layer is not level and firmly placed, the final wall will show any defects. It is critical for building a sturdy and good-looking wall. It is also recommended that a 3-foot piece of 2 x 4 be used to check the side-to-side level across the last three installed blocks. If not level, adjust the block by lifting it and placing a small quantity of bedding material under the appropriate low side. Check the level of each block using a small level, front to back and side to side. Use a rubber mallet to tap each block in place. Make sure that the blocks are level with each other on all sides, front to back and side to side. The blocks should be laid with their edges touching. Lay the first row of blocks on the base material. Obviously, this will not work when building a curved wall. This will provide a guide to help ensure the wall is straight. When building a straight wall, establish a string line along the back side of where the first layer of blocks will be placed. This layer is used for bedding the first row of wall blocks. Bedding sandĪfter compacting, spread a 1-inch layer of coarse sand or ¼-inch minus gravel. This is very important! The base should be so compact that, when you walk over it, it doesn't shift at all. Using the appropriate type of compactor for your site size (either powered or hand-operated), level and compact your base material. The base should be so compact that, when you walk over it, it doesn't shift at all. Next, compact it and level it using either a hand or mechanical compactor.Ī 6-foot piece of 2 x 6 along with a level is useful for screeding the base material to make it level. Lay a 4- to 6-inch layer of the crushed base material in the trench. Round rocks, such as pea gravel, roll and dislodge under pressure resulting in failure of the retaining wall. The various-sized crushed gravel with the fines helps ensure the right amount of compaction. The base material should only consist of angular, sharp-edged particles such as ¾-inch minus gravel. Make sure that your trench is level and compacted. This provides strength and stability to your retaining wall. They should be buried about 1 inch deep for every 8 inches of wall height. Dig a trench for the bottom row of blocks. Preparing the base where the first layer of block will be placed is critical to building a well-placed, stable retaining wall. When installing a curved retaining wall, use a garden hose and spray paint to mark and map out the curved radius. Map out and measure your layout using stakes and string pulled tightly. The size of your wall depends on the size and shape of the space you have. You may need to consult an experienced installer, particularly if your retaining wall is over 4 feet high. Plan your project for the site where the retaining wall will go. First, read all manuals, instructions, and safety guidelines provided by your manufacturer.The following is a do-it-yourself guide to installing a retaining wall using a designed block system. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. ![]() Ensure good drainage with the use of backfill, drain piping, filter fabric, or weep holes.Use filter fabric over wet or dry soil, then cover with gravel.Different block designs limit the allowable height.Walls over 4 feet should use geogrid fabric.ConsiderationsĬonsider these points when planning your retaining wall installation: Contact your supplier to find out about availability and cost for your local area. There are various designed wall block systems. The blocks are made from cement and lightweight aggregate materials. While retaining walls are made out of many types of building materials, a block system is a popular choice due to the easy installation features. Use them in home gardens to highlight flower beds, patios, or yard features. In addition to serving a functional purpose, retaining walls also add aesthetic appeal to your landscaping. Proper installation of landscape retaining walls can make sloping lots usable while managing both soil and water runoff. Retaining walls can be self-installed, making them very cost efficient. ![]() Retaining walls have gained popularity in a short period of time and are commonly used in commercial and home landscaping projects.
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