How To Build A Concrete Retaining Wall

Concrete retaining walls serve a number of different functions. They are used to level a hilly area in your yard, divert water or erosion, or protect and differentiate flower beds. If you are a die hard do-it-yourself person, adding a small retaining wall to your lawn is a pleasant new learning experience.

Before you build

Before you order any building materials, mark out the area where you plan to build your wall. Get the exact dimensions for the length, width and height of the the wall. Next, contact your local building and zoning department. Even if you live in a rural area, most departments require a permit for a wall that is larger than three feet in height. Finally, contact your water and electric companies to ensure that there are no buried pipes or lines in the area where you want to dig.

What you need

Some ambitious DIY folks feel comfortable tackling the pouring of their own forms, but if you have limited skills or time, save yourself the stress of this lengthy step by purchasing pre-poured concrete blocks. These blocks are sold in all colors, shapes, materials and sizes at your local home improvement store. While you are there, also purchase base materials (usually gravel), leveling sand and caulk. If you have your wall dimensions, the professionals at the store can help you determine how much of each building material you need. Tools for this project include: tape measure, level, tamper, shovel and trowel.

Prepping the area

While working with soft soil helps, you do not want to build your retaining wall immediately after it rains, as muddy soil may shift even as you work. Before you start building the wall, dig a trench that forms the foundation. Make this trench as wide and deep as your concrete bricks to hold at least half a foot of base material, a thin layer of leveling sand and the bottom half of your first row of bricks. Use your tamp to ensure the base and sand are fully settled, and your tape measure to ensure your foundation row of bricks is straight and level.

Building the wall

Place a thin layer of sand between each row of bricks to fill gaps. Avoid imperfections that could undermine your wall by placing the bricks with extreme precision. As you work, offset each successive layer of bricks approximately 6 inches to the side of the last one to ensure a stronger wall. Use crushed gravel to fill behind the wall and keep its form; caulk any obvious gaps between bricks.

If you want your retaining wall absolutely perfect, consider calling a professional. Also, if you plan to invest major time or money into your DIY wall, look into an in-depth step-by-step book. If you are pleased with your first little wall, purchase a stone facade to easily improve its appearance.

Adding a small retaining wall to your lawn is a pleasant new learning experience