How To Easily Build A Retaining Wall

There are many ideas that you can use to create the perfect look for your yard. But, for those of you whose home was built on a slope, you might want to consider adding a sturdy retaining wall to support the ground.

Not only do retaining walls provide a great visual to your home and garden, they also have an important job. Since your property is uneven, you run the risk of having a mud puddle in your lower yard after heavy rainfall. This could ultimately drown any plants that you have. By building a retaining wall, you prevent this from happening.

So, if you are ready to tackle this important necessity, we have a few simple steps that'll make your retaining wall a reality.

Pick The Perfect Location

Picking the perfect location for your retaining wall may seem difficult but it really isn't. What you need to do is determine where the slopes lowest point is. Once you find it hammer a stake at opposite ends of where your wall will be. Next, tie a string to connect the stakes so you have an idea of how your wall will appear.

Dig A Trench Along The String

Like any type of wall, it needs to have a solid and level foundation to function properly. This is why you need to dig a trench that is at least 6 inches deep along the base of the locations perimeter. As you dig, make sure to set aside the soil to use as backfill. Once the trench has been dug, check to make sure the area is level and adjust as necessary.

Lay Crushed Stones As A Base

Adding a layer of crushed stones to the base 6 inches deep will add increased strength and stability. Make sure to compact them into the ground to maintain its even surface. Having the base of crushed stones below ground level will allow the first blocks to be below ground level thus creating the strong stability that your retaining wall requires.

Start To Lay The Courses

When you begin to lay each course, make sure to stack the blocks at an angle instead of straight. Make sure your wall is at a 1-inch angle every time you get one foot higher. What this does is counteract any pressure that might occur behind your wall.

To prevent any possibility of unnecessary pressure, you can easily obtain specialized blocks that can be interlocked. These allow each layer to gradually incline and provide more strength to the dirt behind the blocks.

If you are unsure of the proper laying of the blocks, the manufacturer usually provides detailed instructions. The important thing to remember is that each joint needs to be staggered. Having your wall staggered will also add strength to your wall.

After each layer, make sure to wipe off the top to maintain levelness. You can also utilize an adhesive between each row of blocks that will prevent the blocks from moving. As you lay your final top blocks remember that these will be your decorative layer.

Dress The Wall With Faux Stone Panels

After adding the fill dirt in the back, your retaining wall is almost complete. Now it's time to make your retaining wall look even better by covering it with faux stone panels. These special panels are very decorative and give a very realistic visual. So as you view your wall, the paneling will completely hide the true material that makes up your retaining wall.