Q&A for How to Build a Retaining Wall

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Do I need drainage behind a retaining wall?

Agustin Renoj
Home Improvement Specialist
Agustin Renoj is a Home Improvement Specialist with Renoj Handyman based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 18 years of construction experience, Agustin specializes in carpentry, painting, and exterior, interior, kitchen, and bathroom renovations. Renoj Handyman is a family-owned business that consists of craftsmen trained in all areas of construction.

Agustin Renoj

Home Improvement Specialist

Expert Answer

Yes, you need drainage for water, or else the pressure could build up and eventually push the wall over.

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Question

When creating a retaining wall made of brick is it necessary to use mortar?

Anthony "TC" Williams
Experienced Landscaper
Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. With over 21 years of landscaping experience, TC has worked on projects such as the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise, Idaho. He is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the State of Texas.

Anthony "TC" Williams

Experienced Landscaper

Expert Answer

If using small, standard bricks and bigger bricks/blocks, and/or if the wall is over 3 ft in height, then using mortar is best practice.

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Question

What are the regulations for building a retaining wall holding a neighbors land?

Anthony "TC" Williams
Experienced Landscaper
Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. With over 21 years of landscaping experience, TC has worked on projects such as the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise, Idaho. He is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the State of Texas.

Anthony "TC" Williams

Experienced Landscaper

Expert Answer

Regulations for building on neighbour's properties changes according to local ordinances. I recommend checking with your city government.

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Question

Can I build a six-foot tall retaining wall?

Community Answer

Typically, homeowners can work on 3-4' high retaining walls. If more than that, professional contractors should be used.

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Question

Is a retaining wall the same thing as a fence?

Community Answer

No. A retaining wall is usually there to hold back ground behind the wall. It can be used for flower beds, etc. A fence simply separates one area from another (usually neighboring properties). You wouldn't hold back ground with a fence - it would not be strong enough unless you used a series of strengthened gravel boards.

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Question

What prevents the wall from being pushed out by the backfill over time and tipping over?

Community Answer

The key is doing it correctly right from the first row and up. The base has to be solid and level. I found that there are higher end retaining wall blocks, that have a tongue and groove feature on top and bottom that lock the rows together while staggering the face of each successive row by ~20 mm (3/4").

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