How To Build A Concrete Retaining Wall Footing
Of compacted base 1 in.
How to build a concrete retaining wall footing. Cross section of a retaining wall a cinder block retaining wall is only as straight and solid as the base it s built on. Tall wall excavate a trench deep enough to accommodate 4 to 6 in. However it should always be below the seasonal frost line and that often is much deeper in northern climates. Avoid having downspouts pointed at the retaining wall and if it s against the house keep soil and mulch well below the siding.
If you are new to this type of project here are a few tools and materials that you may need as well as some steps to help guide you through the process. How to build a concrete wall figure a. Of leveling sand and half the height of the first course of blocks. As the last step fill the cores around the rebar with mortar from the bottom to top.
Expect to spend 20 36 hours building a 3x10 foot concrete block. A retaining wall is used to stop soil or dirt in one area typically elevated from moving down to a lower area. Thoroughly planned and ably performed wall construction will help to ensure the retaining wall s stability. Retaining walls must be stronger than freestanding walls.
The footing is usually made of poured concrete but in some situations homeowners may instead opt to simply use tamped earth or a gravel base. Concrete blocks are a common building material for a variety of outdoor projects such as retaining walls and out buildings like garages and tool sheds. Insert rebar in the footing when you pour it. The interlocking retaining wall block can be used to build walls up to 24 to 36 inches high depending on the size of the block.
Because of this the footings will need to be built to create a sturdy base. One key aspect of retaining wall construction is preparing a solid footing or foundation. Concrete retaining wall footing size the depth to the bottom of the base slab should be kept at a minimum of two feet.