Comments on: How to Build a Brick or Stone Retaining Wall

on 7/21/2007 an L shape? you lost me there.

on 11/22/2005 Weep holes at the bottom of the retaining wall will help prevent collapse from built up water behind the retaining wall.

on 11/22/2005 When you reach ground level, after the foundations, remember to put a bit of 2 cm waste pipe in a generous bit of mortar. Remember to use light capping to avoid putting strain on the wall.

on 5/22/2007 There is an old saying, "anything is only as strong as its foundation." It's very important to dig down at least 18 inches for a wall up to 2 feet. And from 18 inches to 36 inches depending on the frost line and the township you're doing the work in.

on 11/22/2005 If your situation is more severe or structurally concerned, consider contacting a licensed structural engineer. Although many contractors have years of experience, the only guarantee of performance is with a licensed engineer.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure you have the proper water drainage to prevent erosion and possible long term damage to wall. Use landscape fabric to allow water to move through the wall and retain soils. Gravel, fabric and drainage pipes protect the wall and help retain soil.

on 11/22/2005 When building a retaining wall, it is crucial to use a fabric liner, such as "weed block." This allows the water to seep through, but the dirt to stay where it is needed. We learned this the hard way!

on 11/22/2005 Retaining walls can be made to accommadate any shape and style. You need to put at least 4 inches of 3/4-trap rock for a base, so the wall is stable in winter and ice forms. Also if you have an irregular surface you should always start at the lowest point