How to Install a Retaining Wall

You can build your own retaining wall.

Retaining wall blocks are excellent for creating tree rings, fire pits, memorials, flower boxes, or just a regular retaining wall. They are pre-made and can be found at virtually any home improvement store and most hardware stores. Choose a shape that best fits your design idea or your decor.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Sand
• Paver base
• Tamper
• Level
• Tape measure
• Landscape adhesive

Instructions

1. Make an outline of the wall in which you are going to create. This outline is the area you will build on.

2. Dig out a small trench 4 to 6 inches deep and the proper width of your wall block.

3. Next, add 2 to 4 inches of paver base in the trench you created. Use a tamper to pack down the paver base. Make sure it is as level as possible

4. Once you have leveled your paver base you are ready to set your first row of block. This is the most important row, go slowly and make sure it is completely level.

5. Add sand or dirt behind each level of block as you go. If you would just like a free standing wall, simply apply a landscape adhesive in between each row of block.

6. If you are adding a cap to your retaining wall, it is vital that you glue the caps to the top layer of block. Using the aforementioned landscape adhesive will work just fine.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure each your ground is completely level before applying your first layer of block. This will ensure that each of the following rows are equally level.

• Always use a paver base, or your blocks will be more susceptible to heaving. If you dont use a paver base, your blocks could crack, break, and fall over.