Building a wall to hold back soil, commonly known as a retaining wall, involves a systematic process to ensure stability and longevity.
Here are the key steps for constructing such a wall:
Planning and Preparation
Effective planning and site preparation are crucial first steps.
- Decide Location and Start Digging. Begin by determining the exact position and path of your retaining wall. Start the initial ground excavation in this area.
- Use Stakes and String to Mark Wall Dimensions. To ensure accuracy, drive stakes into the ground along the planned path and stretch string between them to clearly define the wall's dimensions and alignment.
- Dig a Trench. Excavate a foundation trench along the line marked by the stakes and string. The depth and width of this trench are vital for the wall's stability.
- Check Leveling. Use a level to meticulously check that the bottom of the entire trench is perfectly flat and level. A level base is fundamental for a stable wall.
- Layer Stone Dust. Place a layer of stone dust (also known as leveling pad material) into the trench. This material should be compacted to create a firm, smooth, and level base layer for the first course of blocks.
Laying the Base Course
The first layer of blocks requires specific preparation and careful placement.
- Remove the Flanges From Bottom Layer of Blocks. Retaining wall blocks often have a small lip or flange on the back. For the very first course of blocks that sit on the stone dust base, these flanges must typically be removed so the blocks can sit flush and level on the prepared foundation.
- Lay Block on Top of Base and Check Leveling. Carefully place the first course of modified blocks onto the compacted stone dust base. As you lay each block, use a level to ensure it is level both side-to-side and front-to-back, and in alignment with the other blocks in the course.
Building Up the Wall
Once the base is securely in place, you can begin building the wall upwards.
- Lay Next Blocks on the First Course. Start laying the second course of blocks directly on top of the first course. It's common practice to stagger the vertical joints between blocks on consecutive courses (like laying bricks) to enhance the wall's strength and stability. Continue this process, laying subsequent courses and checking for level and alignment, until the desired wall height is achieved.
This structured approach, focusing on proper base preparation and careful block placement, is essential for building a functional wall to hold back soil.
