Build a Retaining Wall Yourself Using Blocks
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Slopescan create big challenges when building landscaping projects.
Many structures, including sheds, walkways, gazebos, andpatios, require flat surfaces.
Even garden planting areas are much more effective if they are situated in flat areas of the yard.
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Building aretaining wallcan offer a way to create and keep flat spaces for such projects.
A retaining wall can also create a useful space in an area you once thought was unusable.
If you are up for the labor, a retaining wall can be a DIY build.
Lee Wallender
If constructed properly, your retaining wall can last for many decades.
That’s because the wall must hold back the earth which can exert thousands of pounds of force.
(The blocks we used in our demonstration weigh 14 pounds each.)
Lee Wallender
Some do-it-yourself retaining wall blocks weigh as much as 61 pounds.
But it’s the blocks' accumulated weight that does the trick.
Our example, a three-tier wall with 14-pound blocks, weighs close to 500 pounds for each 8-foot stretch.
Lee Wallender
Consult your local permitting department for advice; not all communities require building permits for a retaining wall.
Choosing a Location
There are two ways a retaining wall can be used to create flat space.
This is often the method used where the slope is quite steep.
Lee Wallender
Alternatively, it’s possible for you to build the retaining wall, then fill in the spacebehindit.
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a location for a retaining wall.
Your own retaining wall might be shorter or taller, longer or narrower, depending on your needs.
Lee Wallender
Adjust your material quantities as necessary.
Install all full blocks for the second course before cutting and fitting the half-width end blocks on the ends.
Retaining wall blocks have a V-notch groove on the backside to allow the blocks to easily cleave in half.
Lee Wallender
Where possible, face the rough cleaved surface outward, so it faces into the adjoining soil.
Check Each Course for Level
As each row is completed, double-check for level.
In regions with frequent heavy rain, this may be a feature required by building codes.
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This fabric will prevent sand from seeping through the cracks between the blocks.
What should I consider when designing a retaining wall?Colorado State University Extension.
Lee Wallender
Lee Wallender
Lee Wallender
Lee Wallender
