Learn how to create a sloped retaining wall to make your yard more useful.
Looking for ideas for a sloped yard?
Learn how to build a retaining wall out of concrete block to fix a problem slope.
You’ll add space, structure, and value to your yard.
Our tips forbuilding a retaining wallwill help you make the most of your outdoor spacewhile staying within your budget.
you’re able to have the yard of your dreams, even if it slopes.
A retaining wall tames a problem slope, giving you more room to work and play outside.
A properly designed wall will save you time and money.
This guide will ensure that the blocks form a unified and straight front.
A 3-foot-tall wall should have 4-6 inches of base material, so dig accordingly.
(We used scrap lengths of rebar, but wooden dowels will also work.)
To level the stakes, rest a straight piece of 2x4 lumber across the tops of the stakes.
Lay a 4-foot level on the board and check the positioning of the stakes.
A 4x4 can be used as a last resort.
Compact the first few inches of base, then add a few more inches.
Compact this, and repeat until the tops of the stakes are just sticking out of the base material.
Donotusesoilsince it will settle over time, resulting in an uneven or leaning wall.
Lay the Base Blocks
Start laying blocks at one end, using a full block.
Use a torpedo level to check the level front to back.
Tap the blocks with a rubber mallet until they are level with one another.
If you’re gonna wanna raise a block, put sand or base material under it.
Level every block on the first course.
With staggered joints, the wall will have more structural integrity.
Because we used tumbled blocks with no locking mechanisms, we used a construction adhesive on alternate courses.
Remember, with locking blocks, you might remove blocks and start over if you make a mistake.
But adhesive permanently bonds blocks, so work carefully.
Backfill
As each level is added, backfill with crushed gravel and tamp it.
This facilitates drainage and keeps tree andweed rootsfrom destroying your wall.
Lay a section of perforated drainpipe near the bottom of the gravel to channel water from behind the wall.
The gravel backfill should be at least 8-12 inches thick.
Add the Capstones
Although not essential, capstones give your wall a finished, professional look.
Apply construction adhesive to keep the capstones in place.
