Tips For Building A Retaining Wall With Interlocking Concrete Blocks
If you need to build a small retaining wall in your backyard to control soil erosion due to a slight downhill slope, then you will be pleased to know that doing so with interlocking concrete blocks is an easy DIY project. Even if you have never built a retaining wall before, you can use the stackable blocks to create a beautiful focal point in your yard. Interlocking blocks can be used to make walls of varying height and use locking flanges to hold themselves in place once they have been installed.
To create a concrete block retaining wall in your backyard, follow these tips:
Tip: Determine the Shape of Your New Retaining Wall and Mark It With Chalk
Whether your new retaining wall is going to be straight or curved, you need to decide on its shape and mark out the installation area using chalk. For a straight wall, you should also use stakes and string to mark the outer border. This will ensure the wall stays straight as you build it up. If the first layer is not level enough, then the upper levels will continue to slant.
Tip: Bury the First Row of Blocks Under Ground on a Base of Crushed Rock
When you install the first layer of concrete blocks, you need to place them into a trench that covers their lower half. In addition, the blocks need to be set on a layer of drainage rocks, so your trench needs to be deep enough to accommodate both the block and the gravel.
Tip: Level All Blocks in Each Direction to Ensure a Level Retaining Wall
To ensure that your new retaining wall is level, you need to start with the first layer of blocks. Each block that makes up the wall needs to be leveled both side-to-side and front-to-back. By making the first row very straight, the upper blocks of the wall will be as straight as possible.
Tip: Place Topping Stones on Your Retaining Wall for a Professional Appearance
Finally, for a more polished look, you can install a row of topping stones all along your backyard's new retaining wall. These special stones are generally wider than the interlocking concrete blocks and turn the top of your retaining wall into a nice long bench. You can purchase topping stones made out of concrete that matches the rest of your wall, or you can purchase specialty stones to give it a more designer look.
Contact a company like Quality Lawn & Landscape to learn more.