Alternately you can build the retaining wall then fill in the space behind it.
How to build a short concrete retaining wall.
Position your first block and use a standard level to make sure it s even.
Stack wood planks to create a frame for the wall.
Allow concrete to cure.
Refer to the plan or schematic for the retaining wall.
Create contraction joints every 4 6 feet.
Finish with crushed stone.
Measure and mark footing locations.
To create a flat area in front of the wall the process involves cutting back or notching into the slope then building a retaining wall to hold back the remaining hillside behind the wall.
Then use the marking paint and measuring tape to lay.
No mortar is needed.
Dig a trench about 12 deep to create a level surface before laying any stone.
Then use a shovel to mark the outline.
Install the first course of blocks using a taut string line to establish a straight row.
How to do it.
Finish the surface of the wall as desired.
How to pour a concrete retaining wall.
These wood barriers hold the concrete in place as it dries so you will need to create 2 of them.
If needed reposition it using additional.
Build and prep footing.
Install a layer of large stones for good stability at the base.
After you finish the first course fill the space between your retaining wall and.
Continue laying your first course of blocks making sure to check that every block is level.
This is often the method used where the slope is quite steep.
If the wall exceeds four feet in height footings should be poured separately.
Build the footing and insert rebar into the wet concrete.
Keep the boards less than 8 ft 2 4 m long so they aren t too difficult to handle.
Avoid having downspouts pointed at the retaining wall and if it s against the house keep soil and mulch well below the siding.
See below for more information on contraction joints remove forms and install waterproofing and drainage system.
Lay out the wall and excavate the slope and the footing trench.
Your retaining wall design will determine how you mark the area.
The cheapest and easiest material to use is 2 in 4 in 5 1 cm 10 2 cm boards cut from a softwood like pine.
To mark a free form layout use a rope or hose to outline the shape.
Scrape off excess mortar.