Learn how to build steps using concrete block retaining wall units.
How to make steps with retaining wall blocks.
Drive long wooden stakes into the ground at each end.
To mark a free form layout use a rope or hose to outline the shape.
Your retaining wall design will determine how you mark the area.
Place the retaining wall blocks with the raised front lip facing up and near the front of the trench.
Cut the blocks with masonry chisel to get the required shape and size for the wall.
Check the retaining wall blocks for level from side to side and front to back.
A retaining wall will normally have a high newton block reinforced concrete wall often with piers sitting on a reinforced foundation even a low one with if required a fair face wall sitting in front.
Using a tape measure decide the length and the width of your retaining wall then mark off the area with the garden stakes and string.
To create a solid foundation dig a trench for the first course of your interlocking retaining wall blocks to sit in and make sure the ground remains even throughout.
Begin digging into the ground with a shovel.
Using a shovel mark the ground where the retaining wall will be built.
Make adjustments as necessary.
Create a staggered form with the blocks to build a wall.
Avoid having downspouts pointed at the retaining wall and if it s against the house keep soil and mulch well below the siding.
You will learn how to lay the base course and proper placement for wall and step units an.
If the distance is greater than 8 drive additional stakes so that the gaps do not exceed 8.
The wall will also have weep holes to prevent the build up of water behind the wall.
After this it is time to take a step ahead and plan the second layer of the block.
Follow the block manufacturer s instructions for wall height limits.