Four Tips For Constructing Segmental Retaining Walls

Each Saturday and Sunday, homeowners flock to local landscape and home centers, like Southland Brick and Block, in hopes of completing projects that will improve the appearance of their home and ultimately increase the resale value.

According to experts at the National Concrete Masonry Association, the authors of this article, many homeowners are finding that segmental retaining wall units are meeting this objective.

One reason for this, they say, is segmental retaining walls are less expensive than poured-in-place concrete walls and more durable than timber retaining walls. The systems are also easy to install and they don’t require mortar or concrete footings.

Here’s four tips from the NCMA that can ensure the success and long-term performance of segmental retaining walls.:

1) Contact local utility services to identify location of underground pipelines, conduits and utility lines.

2) check with local building officials or residential inspection services to determine any requirements for construction certificates or inspections needed. This is often a requirement when retaining walls exceed four feet.

3) Coordinate delivery and storage of materials to ensure obstructed access to the work area and materials.

4) Review the suppliers recommended installation and structural requirements.

Homeowners can find more information in numerous publications about landscape construction. recent publications include,” Retaining Walls - A Building Guide And Design Gallery “, by Shiffer Publishing Ltd. It’s available at many landscape and home centers.

For more information on segmental retaining walls, visit the NCMA website and we have more info on our products here.

Stop by the nearest location of Southland Brick and Block today and let one of our associates help you with your next outdoor building and landscape project.