Basic Steps To A Retaining Wall Installation

The first step would be to determine the size or section of the retaining wall by linear foot. This will figure in to the estimate of materials needed later. Mark off the area with a string line and invite for extra room on the sides of the retaining wall blocks for an excellent gravel base.

Estimate website needed, chose desired retaining wall blocks, the size you choose will determine the total amount needed, for example: if 12 inch blocks are used the number times the linear foot needed is obvious. If 8 or 16 inch blocks are employed, convert total linear distance had a need to inches and divide by 8 for an eight inch block. Estimate base material -gravel(3/4 " quarry process) for under retaining wall, use 4-6 inch gravel base, more if retaining wall is higher in proportions.

Preparing for a good retaining wall base is important and will be probably the most time consuming process. Excavate by shovel or loader if available, use local digging laws to make sure in order to avoid any buried cable. When possible work with a landscape fabric under gravel for better support and protect base from soil. Some areas may necessitate a deeper base (6 or more inches) because of poor soil or recent disturbed soil from new house construction. Next - get the gravel base in by wheelbarrow, shovel, loader, and rake it out to approximate level.

Grade the retaining wall base with a rake and 2X4 to obtain an even base where in fact the wall will be placed. The string line should be in place with an effective level set and the direction of the wall. When the base is ready and compacted to the correct string level, all you have to to accomplish is line the rear flat side of the retaining wall blocks with the string and keep on placing blocks. When installing string line, remember that the initial coarse of blocks ought to be 3/4 buried once and for all support of the complete wall.

Use a plate compactor or like compaction device to acquire a good solid base for the wall. If the gravel is too dry, wet it down some with a hose to make it pack better. Grade additional times after every compaction until complete.

Lay the retaining wall blocks along the string line until the first layer is complete, remember to have this first coarse secured well, some bury the first layer almost completely or 3/4 buried therefore the base is strong. When layer 1 is performed, the next coarse is simpler, around the height you need to make it. Work with a landscape block adhesive between each coarse for extra strength.

Some retaining wall blocks may need to be cut to finish or match nicely to a foundation or other structure. Use a diamond blade chop saw to have a nice cut. measure block in place and cut on your own marked line. Retaining wall caps are a good option to utilize, they add a better appearance and will not allow weeds to cultivate between the joints along with a wall. (depends upon type of block used) secure with a landscape block adhesive for added strength.

Finish the retaining wall by adding or back fill any longer base material or black dirt in the front or behind the wall, seed grass if needed. If retaining wall is situated in an area that water drainage is really a concern, work with a drain tile pipe along the back base of the wall and use rock or water friendly material for drainage purposes. Utilize this on the trunk of the retaining wall before black dirt or other soil is added.

Tip: Use Landscape Block Adhesive between each coarse of blocks, run a bead of caulk over the blocks, this can make the wall stronger and moisture won't leak through the blocks, they will be sealed.