How To Build a Retaining Wall (Step-by-Step)

How To Build a Retaining Wall (Step-by-Step)

In this video I show you exactly how to build a retaining wall with landscape blocks.

You’ll learn how to design your retaining wall, the tools you need, how to build it step by step, and even some retaining wall design ideas.

First, I’ll walk you through how to design your retaining wall, and the critical components you need to include so your retaining wall doesn’t fail.

Most people skip critical steps, like digging deep enough for a 6″ packed gravel base – which is critical for the structural integrity of your wall.

You’ll also learn the importance of using 3/4″ gravel behind your retaining wall blocks so excess moisture doesn’t cause your wall to tip over.

Then, I’ll demonstrate how wide to dig the trench before building your wall, and what to consider when planning it out.

Then, we’ll go right into building it, starting with the first row of blocks. I’ll share some tips for making this much easier so you can save time.

This home improvement project will have a dramatic impact on your landscape, and it doesn’t cost that much. In fact, this 50′ long wall, that is 3′ tall, only cost me about $1,000 in materials. That’s pretty amazing considering the transformation it made to my yard.

I think you’ll like this video, because it includes a time-lapse of building the wall as well – so you can get an idea of exactly how much work goes into installing a retaining wall.

And by the way…

If you enjoy DIY projects, and you’d like to learn how to turn your DIY skills into a profitable handyman business…

visit my website at: http://handymanstartup.com

113,772
Like
Save


Comments

Wesley Hearst says:

This is the best video I've seen on building a retaining wall! That whole landscape looks awesome sir!

WILLIAM TANG says:

VERY COOL. VERY SIMPLE. AWESOME. THANKS.

montydesijokes says:

the best explained video on retaining wall.

Laura Erickson says:

YOURS LOOKS GREAT I HAVE MONEY AND NEED IT DONE… HAHA

d perez says:

and did you not lay down a weed guard (landscape fabric) under the foundation paver gravel? any problems with weeds growing out of bottom?

d perez says:

great video. one common mistake, you called a shovel a spade shovel and spade shovel a flat tip..the spade shaped shovel is actually just called a shovel , and flat shovel is actually a spade shovel..everyone does it. and your supposed to chisel off the lip of the very bottom row of blocks correct?

Andreas Cappello says:

hi ,you did a good job. for build the wall you need the permit? if i use the cement it s good deal? i m florida

kalasingabaya says:

Thanks dude, I just finished a wall just like yours. I followed your video and it was very helpful.

otis08 says:

great job, great looking. better than this old house guy

Nizm0350z says:

really nice

Steven Ketterman says:

What type of brick should I ask for when calling around for this brick? Sizes and dimensions would help also?

mejasiu says:

Thanks for the great video. One question, how did you calculate how many blocks you would need for the project? This will one help estimate the cost but also if you buy in bulk it can help drive down the cost as well. Thanks

nii amon says:

Good job. Good job. Best video. Love it

Jason Meyer says:

I decided I loved this video when I saw your cross-section illustration. I am preparing my back yard for a retaining wall and this video is more detailed than anything out there. It explains stuff in a normal manner and is very thorough. Thank you so much for making it!

sabbie7 says:

Very well done. I appreciate all of the detail instruction and visuals. Awesome work.

S An says:

Great demonstration video. Well planned, nicely structured and superbly articulated. Really appreciate your effort. Big thanks.

Write a comment