Do it Yourself - 8 Steps To Laying Retaining Wall Footings

Step 1.  Dig your retaining wall trench approximately 400mm (16") wide and 150mm (6")  deep and fill with 100mm (4") road    base material.

Step 2. Compact road base.

Step 3. Cover road base with approximately 25mm (1") of crushed bluemetal or sand and screed to a true level.

Step 4. Place retaining wall blocks onto the base with every second block a half height. This will form the sheer bond. If the retaining wall is higher than 700mm (2") an initial half block to the wall is required.

Step 5. It is essential that this first course of retaining wall blocks are placed accurately to line and level using a spirit level. Note: Where concrete base is used allow to harden before proceeding.

Step 6. If the retaining wall requires an agricultural drain, place it at the bottom of the first course with a gentle fall. Cover pipe or strip drain and surround with a free draining material.

Step 7. Backfill with a free draining material and compact. Make sure you fill the cores of the retaining wall blocks as well

Step 8. Fit cappers to the retaining wall with masonary adhesive or mortar. The back of the capper should be flush with the back edge of the rear block.

A few Handy Tips to finish off your wall