Basic Steps To A Retaining Wall Installation
The first rung on the ladder is to determine the size or area of the retaining wall by linear foot. This will figure into the estimate of materials needed later. https://dhallwalling.uk/best-dry-stone-walling-yorskhire/ off the region with a string line and invite for extra room on the sides of the retaining wall blocks for a good gravel base.
Estimate the materials needed, chose desired retaining wall blocks, the size you choose will determine the 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 used, convert total linear distance needed 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 essential and will be probably the most time consuming process. Excavate by shovel or loader if available, use local digging laws to make sure to avoid any buried cable. When possible use a landscape fabric under gravel for better support and protect base from soil. Some areas may necessitate a deeper base (6 or more inches) due to poor soil or recent disturbed soil from new house construction. Next - obtain 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 get an even base where the wall will be placed. The string line ought to be in place with an effective level set and the direction of the wall. So 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 should be 3/4 buried once and for all support of the complete wall.
Work with a plate compactor or like compaction device to get a good solid base for the wall. If the gravel is too dry, wet it down some with a garden hose to make it pack better. Grade additional times after every compaction until complete.
Lay the retaining wall blocks along the string line before first layer is complete, remember to have this first coarse secured well, some bury the initial layer almost completely or 3/4 buried therefore the base is strong. When layer 1 is done, the next coarse is easier, up to the height you would like 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 complete or match nicely to a foundation or other structure. Work with a diamond blade chop saw to acquire a nice cut. measure block in place and cut on your marked line. Retaining wall caps certainly are a good option to use, they put in a better appearance and will not allow weeds to grow 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 with the addition of 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 located in an area that water drainage is a concern, work with a drain tile pipe across the back foot of the wall and use rock or water friendly material for drainage purposes. Use 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 will make the wall stronger and moisture won't leak through the blocks, they will be sealed.