Concrete Block Retaining Wall Construction -

As the name suggests, a concrete block retaining wall retains dirt and stops it from washing into yards and gardens. Concrete wall blocks have range of colors, shapes, sizes and price points. Choose from interlocking wall blocks, single wall blocks, cinder blocks or mix and pour your own. While pouring your own block may sound like a do-it-yourselfer’s dream, these blocks do not hold up as well because they are not cured under pressure, which adds to their strength and durability. You will always need custom builders in Gold Coast to continue construction job easily.

You Will Need:

Tamper
Level
Crushed stone
Masonry sand
Mortar
Trowel

Retaining Wall Base

Dig a trench 8 to 10 inches deep and 8 inches wider than the width of the concrete retaining wall block.
Level the base of the trench.
Compact the dirt at the base of the trench with a hand tamper or rent a gas powered tamper.
Add 4 inches of crushed stone to the trench and level the stone.
Add 1-inch of masonry sand on top of the crushed stone.
Use a trowel or a 2″x4″ to smooth the sand and lightly tamp it down.

Retaining Wall Construction

Place the first row of concrete block on top of the sand and right up to the dirt at the front of the wall construction. The first row of concrete block should be sunk about half way into the ground.
Mix mortar according to the directions on the bag.
Use a trowel to mix 1-inch strong layer on top of the first course of concrete block.
Set the second course on top of the first course. Do not allow seams to line up, stagger blocks so the halfway point is on top of a concrete block end. Staggering blocks gives more strength to the retaining wall.
Cut all blocks into pieces with wet saw.
Fill the space behind the concrete block with crushed rock. Crushed rock aids in drainage and relieves pressure against the retaining wall.
Apply mortar to the top of the second course of concrete retaining wall block, set concrete blocks in place, back fill with crush stone and repeat until the wall is built to the desired height.
Finish top row with finishing blocks if desired. Many concrete retaining wall block manufacturers make decorative top blocks to finish the top course.