Construction Process of a curved concrete retaining wall

The purpose of the concrete retaining wall is to retain soil that remains on an elevated and sloping area.

A concrete retaining wall is generally constructed with solid concrete, but cinder blocks can also be used to get rid of expensive masonry work, specifically when it has to curve. Given below, some useful guidelines to construct a retaining wall with a curve on your own effort.

Step 1 – Arrange the Area

The concrete retaining wall should be set up in a trench. Demarcate the area with stakes, and then attach a string among them. Calculate the length of the staked off area and specify the height of the concrete retaining wall according to your choice. Based on these numbers, buy the amount of cinder blocks to fulfill your need. Calculate the width of the blocks, and then complete the task for demarcation of your area by staking off the width and then finishing the length for a 3D representation.

Carefully, examine the staked out area and eliminate any detectable rocks, weeds and even roots. Excavate the area to a depth of 6 inches, eliminate rocks and other debris as necessary.

Tamp the site down, and verify the depth. Make modification as required. Put down a single layer of gravel, and then tamp it down unless it becomes even and level.

Step 2 – Place Blocks

Also Read: How to make an effective Retaining Wall Design

As soon as the trench is cleansed and excavated, the blocks should be arranged accordingly. Set the first block in the trench, ensure it is firm against the sides. Also verify to maintain proper level. If it is not, softly hit it with the mallet unless it becomes level. Arrange the next block, and reiterate the method unless the first level of cinder blocks remain in proper position.

Step 3 – Make Cuts

As the concrete retaining wall is constructed on a curve, it is required to alter the cinder blocks to accommodate the curve. The string will act as guide to verify where the curves occur and how far your block is sticking out. With the help of a marker, track the curvature of the string on the block. Detach the block from the trench.

Take on your work gloves and goggles. A masonry saw can be used to trim the block to the desired size you require for extreme curves. To deal with mild curves, employ a mallet and chisel. Go on with your desired effect and substitute the block.

Step 4 – Strengthen the Foundation

Backfill the area, where the retaining wall is situated, unless the earth is firmly packed around the base. Pour gravel into the centers of the block so that it is halfway up. Arrange the second level of blocks, ensure that they are level and match up with the blocks underneath. Cut them to adapt as required, and fill them with gravel. Repeat the process unless the desired height is attained, and then cap off the blocks.