DIY retaining wall construction offers many different variations. The most commonly used options are natural stone and concrete block, each of which has a unique look. Where one is more formal, the other option blends better in a natural landscape. Preparation is necessary regardless of where and with what you will be building.

Getting the Ground Ready

Step number one is readying the base, or footer. It will be necessary to level and tamp the ground. It is a good idea to plan for drainage at this time, also. The drainage system installed will depend upon the area where the fence is installed. It is possible to run drainage tubing with slots along the fence or through it. When the wall is built, it might be advisable to add some gravel behind it. This will aid in retaining soil and drainage.

It is not necessary for the ground to be precisely level when using stone. One tip is to lay rocks of varying thickness in order to account for the differing slope of the landscape. Remember to tamp the ground before placing the initial layer of rock.

Find Out How Much Material Is Required

Multiply the height by the length when using concrete blocks, then divide that figure by .75. The number of blocks required is the result. To account for damage, it is advisable to add additional blocks.

To calculate for retaining wall made from natural stone, multiply base times width times height, then multiply that by 125 lbs. per foot cubed. It is a good idea to have the product delivered, since it will probably take a ton for each kind, at least. This depends upon the size of the wall.

Laying Blocks or Stones

A staggered pattern is employed when using concrete blocks. This ensures that the structure is stronger, plus it provides a professional look. Structures which have a height of four feet or less can be built by gravity stacking. This process uses no adhesive between blocks or layers, and it uses no filler either. Caps which are held in place with concrete adhesive are a feature of the version using concrete blocks.

Lay the stones randomly by putting pieces of differing thickness on every level. Randomly place some thick rocks as well. This will make the wall sturdier. The flattest rocks work best as top caps, so try and save them. This will beautify the fence as well as keep it stable. Stone requires no extra draining. Water is able to flow through the many tiny gaps present. It might be a good idea to use landscaping fabric, however, which will prevent soil stains.

 

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