How to Build a Retaining Wall

How to build a retaining wall around a tree, mailbox, or along your house.

Things You'll Need

• Retaining wall blocks
• Small level
• Garden hoe

Instructions

1. 

   First, level the ground the best you can around the area that you plan to put a retaining wall. A garden hoe or rake works great for leveling out an area just large enough for the blocks.

2. 

   Next, lay the block on the ground. Level the block in both directions. Length wise and width wise. Take in consideration where the wall will go when you level the first block. The first block will decide where the rest of the wall will sit. You may have to add some dirt or take away some to get the look that you want.

3. 

   Once you have the first row down, start on the second. Make sure you space the second row even with the joints of the bottom row to get a nice even look. The most important thing is to always keep each block level. The top layer will look so much better if the rows below are level.

4. 

   Finally, add a cap stone to your wall if you'd like. They are usually a little less expensive than the blocks and really make the wall look professional.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the block level, especially the first. You'll be much happier with the end result.