What are some tips for making retaining wall blocks?
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That depends on how high you want the wall
Depends on area to cover, size and shape of block you choose. Then measure area you want the wall to cover and do the math to figure surface to cover versus size of block. Make sure you account for having to cut some to fit areas along edge in places. You can get very detailed or just make one with whole blocks only, depending on look you want. Big project in the end but well worth it once completed.
Don't forget about your footer rows. As a general rule, you want 1 1/2 courses of pavers below ground level.
Dig down deep enough for 2 or more courses. Tamp down the dirt and add a layer of sand. This will help you form a nice level base for your footer courses. It is very important for everything to be level if you want it to last.
Also as a general rule, regular pavers are good for walls less than 1 meter high (39") above ground. You can go closer to 4 feet (48") with the kind with the lip on the back edge, but that creates a receding effect.
If you want a taller wall with a straight face, look into block-and-pin masonry. You can go as high as you want with block-and-pin because the structure is so stable. We had pros do a block-and-pin project at our last house (because of the scope of the project). We loved it. And when it was time to sell, the buyers said it was 1 of their favorite things about the house.
The first row of blocks, should be below the frontline. The frost line is the depth at which the moisture present in the soil is expected to freeze. The blocks should be staggered (the end blocks will be cut in half). Depending on the height of the wall, it is recommended to use re-bar through the blocks and cement each hole in the block. The top of the wall should have a cap (coping stone) this is not only decorative, but functional. The cap does not permit water to seep through the block and freeze (causing the wall to crack
Have fun with your project.
P.S. Every area has a different frost line--check your area.
I think this will help! http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/structures/how-to-build-a-block-retaining-wall Good luck!!