How to Install Retaining Wall
A retaining wall prevents soil erosion, creates level planting areas, and adds landscape interest. Build a durable wall using proper base preparation and drainage techniques.
Your Progress
0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Plan Wall Location and Height
Step 1: Plan Wall Location and Height
Mark wall location with stakes and string. Walls over 4 feet tall require engineering. Check local building codes for permit requirements.
Laser Level for Landscaping
Professional laser level for accurately measuring ground slope and ensuring level foundation
Measuring Tape 100ft
Long measuring tape for laying out retaining wall dimensions and checking grade
Landscape Marking Paint
Spray paint for marking wall layout and excavation lines on the ground
2 Step 2: Excavate and Level Base
Step 2: Excavate and Level Base
Dig trench 6 inches deep and wider than blocks. Level and compact soil. Add 4-6 inches of gravel base and compact thoroughly.
Plate Compactor
Vibrating plate compactor for compacting gravel base and ensuring solid foundation
Crushed Stone Base Material
3/4 inch crushed stone for creating stable retaining wall base layer
Hand Tamper
Manual tamper for compacting base material in tight areas
3 Step 3: Install First Course
Step 3: Install First Course
Place first row of blocks on gravel base. Check level front-to-back and side-to-side. This course determines wall success - take time to get it perfect.
Retaining Wall Blocks
Interlocking concrete blocks designed specifically for retaining walls
Retaining Wall Adhesive
Heavy-duty construction adhesive for securing wall blocks together
Rubber Mallet
Dead-blow mallet for seating blocks without damage
4 Step 4: Add Drainage
Step 4: Add Drainage
Place perforated drain pipe behind wall at base level. Backfill with gravel to enable water drainage and reduce pressure on wall.
Landscape Fabric
Heavy-duty geotextile fabric for drainage behind retaining wall
Perforated Drain Pipe
4-inch perforated drain pipe for water management behind wall
Drainage Gravel
Clean gravel for backfill drainage system
5 Step 5: Stack Additional Courses
Step 5: Stack Additional Courses
Offset joints like bricks. Use pins or lip on blocks to connect courses. Backfill with gravel every 1-2 courses for proper drainage and stability.
Wall Block Caps
Finishing cap stones for top of retaining wall
Masonry Saw
Diamond blade saw for cutting blocks to size
Construction Adhesive Gun
Heavy-duty caulk gun for applying block adhesive
6 Step 6: Cap and Backfill
Step 6: Cap and Backfill
Install cap blocks using masonry adhesive. Backfill behind wall with gravel at bottom and soil at top. Compact soil to prevent settling.
Topsoil for Backfill
Quality topsoil for backfilling behind completed wall
Soil Compactor
Hand-held soil compactor for settling backfill material
Landscape Rake
Heavy-duty rake for grading and leveling backfill