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Step 1
Wade Works Creative
Excavate Location of Retaining Wall
Lay out the location of the retaining wall, and excavate the bank approximately 2’ deeper than the proposed front of the wall.
Step 2
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Dig Footing and Level
Dig footing approximately 2’ wide and a depth of a least 8”. Ensure the base of your footing is level using a line level or long bar level.
Step 3
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Compact Loose Soil
Be mindful not to loosen dirt at the bottom of the footing. Use a plate tamper or shovel to compact soil if loose.
Pro Tip
If the elevation of the footing drops more than approximately 6”, step the footing down by making a shelf where the footing will be lower. This keeps the footing level while still following the grade.
Step 4
Wade Works Creative
Wade Works Creative
Fill Footing
Fill the entire footing with coarse gravel, spread evenly and compact with a plate tamper or shovel.
Step 5
Wade Works Creative
Wade Works Creative
Level Footing
Level the top of the gravel footing using a long level or line level. Smooth the surface with a garden rake and plate tamper.
Pro Tip
Use a rotating laser and receiver for long distances to improve accuracy.
Step 6
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Place First Row of Boulders
Place the first row of boulders, positioning the desired boulders outward.
Pro Tip
Position boulders flattest side on top. This will make the next layer easier to fit.
Step 7
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Place Second Boulder Layer
Continue with the second layer, ensuring the wall is slightly moving back towards the bank. Ideally, the wall should have a backward angle at approximately 1/2" to 1'.
Pro Tip
Rotating longer stones to periodically face into the bank will give you more options for fit and will provide more stability to the wall once backfilled.
Step 8
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Place Landscape
Place soil-blocking fabric on the back of the wall and on the dirt bank. Ensure there is enough fabric laying on the top of the wall to cover the dirt.
Step 9
Wade Works Creative
Wade Works Creative
Backfill Soil to Wall
Fill the space behind the wall and the bank with coarse stone, stopping about 8” below the top of the wall. Cover soil with remaining fabric and backfill soil to the wall.
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