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Build a Retaining Wall
Retaining walls are typically built to level a steep slope or create an enclosed area for a garden. Building a retaining wall is a great do-it-yourself project that will instantly enhance the appearance of your property by turning an unusable hill into an interesting, functional space.
Stop by your local True Value hardware store for the advice and tools you need to help build retaining wall. The steps below will get you started.
Step 1. Choose Material
Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials, including wood blocks, bricks, natural stone and concrete. For the practical do-it-yourselfer, interlocking mortarless blocks are the best option. These blocks have a lip on the backside so they connect easily without mortar.
Step 2. Determine Amount of Blocks Needed
First, figure out the desired height and length of your retaining wall. Using a tape measure, find the length (the average is about 1' long) and the height of the mortarless block you plan on using. Divide the length of your proposed wall by the length of the block to determine the amount of blocks you'll need for one row. Next, divide the height of the wall by the height of the block to determine the number of rows you'll need. To find out the total number of blocks you'll need, multiply the number of blocks per row by the number of rows.
Helpful Tips:
- Do not use mortarless blocks if you're building a wall more than 3' high. Higher walls need more reinforcement.
- When the blocks are delivered, do not have the pallets set on your driveway. They are extremely heavy and can cause damage.
Step 3. Dig a Trench
It's important to build your retaining wall on a level foundation. Mark the area where you want to put your wall using stakes and string. Clear the building site of debris, grass and any other material. Starting at the lowest point, use a flat-pointed shovel to dig a trench for the foundation row. The dimensions of the trench will vary depending on the size of your blocks, but plan on making the trench 4-6" deep and a little wider than the width of the block. Tamp the trench with a hand tamper to compact the soil, then add a layer of leveling sand and tamp again.
Safety Alert!
- Before digging or excavating, be sure you know where the hanging and underground power lines are located in your neighborhood. You can find out by contacting your local power company or power line locater service.
Step 4. Lay the Blocks
Set the first block in place, making sure it's level on all sides with a line level. Tap it with the butt of a hammer if necessary. Continue laying the first row of blocks until it's completed. Then set one stone in position at each end of the foundation row. The lip of each block should fit against the back of the foundation block. Tie a string to two 2x4s and stretch it from the first stone to the last stone to ensure the first and last blocks are level with each other.
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Step 5. Cut Blocks for Next Row
You'll need to cut one block so the first and second rows are staggered. To make the cut, use a 3 1/2" brick chisel and a hand-drilling hammer (small sledge) to score a cut line all around the block. It takes a little patience, but when the scored line is deep enough on all sides, the block will break on the line.
Step 6. Finish Laying the Blocks
Stack the block for second row on top of the first one, beginning with the half block. Step each course back a little as directed by the manufacturer. Typically, you will want the wall to slope backward 1" for every 12" of height.
Step 7. Fill the Wall Cavity
To prevent soil from gradually seeping through the spaces between the blocks, line the cavity behind the wall with weed shield fabric. Start at the base of the cavity and unroll the fabric until it overlaps the top row of blocks. Cut the fabric with garden shears and continue along the length of the wall until the entire cavity is lined. For drainage purposes, fill the area closest to the stone with gravel before filling the rest of the area with soil. Trim any excess fabric to finish the look.
Step 8. Complete the Wall
Using a caulking gun, secure the top row of blocks with concrete bond adhesive. Firmly press on each block and allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Top off the terraces with decorative stone or mulch.
Great job! You've just added a visually appealing retaining wall to your property. Visit your local True Value hardware store for more lawn and garden ideas.
For more projects, go to TrueValue.com. >
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