How to Build a Landscape Wall
A landscape wall enhances your home's appeal and provides a platform for flower and vegetable gardens and topiary displays. In this example, you will learn how to build a landscape wall with interlocking cement retaining wall blocks. These blocks do not require mortar or construction glue of any sort. Although it may seem like an overwhelming project, with the proper time and patience, anyone can build a landscape wall. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Gloves Safety glasses Wood stakes Mason's line Shovel Hand tamper Leveling sand Interlocking retaining wall blocks Carpenter's level Rubber mallet 3 1/2-inch stone chisel 3-pound drilling hammer (also known as a mini sledgehammer) Matching capstones (optional) Line Level Flat-pointed shovel Porous landscape fabric
Instructions
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1
Mark off the site with wood stakes and mason's line. Landscape walls can go just about anywhere on your property..
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2
Dig the trench for the foundation at a depth of 4 inches. The width depends on the blocks you choose.
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3
Use the hand tamper to compact the soil at the bottom of the trench.
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Add 1 to 2 inches of leveling sand to the bottom of the trench and tamp down.
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Set your first block into the trench and use the carpenter's level to check that it's even. A level base makes the whole process go much smoother and faster. If the block is not level, use the rubber mallet to adjust it.
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Lay the subsequent blocks to form the foundation, checking the level as you go.
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Lay one block atop each corner of the foundation layer and stretch your mason's line from the top of one block to the other.
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Clip the line level to the mason's line and make sure the foundation is level. If not, make the necessary adjustments to the foundation row.
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Cut one of the blocks in half by first scoring it using the chisel and the drilling hammer and then splitting it on the scoring line. This will allow you to stagger the second row above the foundation row.
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Lay the half-block at one end of your wall and continue laying the blocks for the second row. Repeat the 1/2 block end piece process for each even row of your wall.
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Lay the capstones on the top level once your wall has reached the desired height.
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12
Place landscape fabric along the backside of the wall. The fabric will help prevent soil from seeping through spaces in the block.
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Fill the new space with soil and the plants of your choice.
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Tips & Warnings
When planning your project, don't be shy about asking the people who are selling you the stone for suggestions.
Always wear eye protection when working with a hammer and chisel. Stone chips can cause serious damage to your eyes.
