#Concrete retaining wall block molds how to
#Concrete retaining wall block molds install

The base is formed first, and the stem constructed afterwards.Ĭontraction Joints: These are vertical joints or grooves formed or cut into the wall that allows the concrete to shrink without noticeable harm. Keys are almost always formed in the base to give the stem added sliding resistance. If keys are not used, the surface of the first pour is cleaned and roughened before the next placement of concrete. Keys are used to increase the shear resistance at the joint. The footing key is generally an extension of the stem and extends below the bottom of the base.Ĭast concrete retaining walls may be constructed with any or all of the following joints:Ĭonstruction Joints: These are vertical or horizontal joints that are used between two successive pours of concrete. In some cases, a footing key is included to increase resistance to sliding. Counterfort retaining walls have counterforts spaced at center-to-center distances of about 30% to 70% of the total wall height. The length of the base slab is usually about 50% to 70% of the total height of the wall (bottom of base to top of stem).įor cantilever and counterfort walls, the stem thickness at the base is often about 10% of the total wall height, as is the base slab thickness. However, it should always be below the seasonal frost line, and that often is much deeper in northern climates. The depth to the bottom of the base slab should be kept at a minimum of two feet. In general, the top of the stem of any cast concrete retaining wall should not be less than 12 inches for the proper placement of concrete. This can add several inches to the wall's thickness dimensions, and can vary depending on the severity of exposure, soil type and reactivity, etc. In addition to basic structural requirements, wall dimensions (generally member thickness) are also affected by the required minimum reinforcement cover. How thick should a concrete retaining wall be? Construction-friendly proportions facilitate proper concrete placement and provide sufficient room for structural reinforcement. Proper proportioning of a retaining wall is just as important to its construction as its structural design.

#Concrete retaining wall block molds install

Install patios, steps and other hardscape elements.

Finish the surface of the wall as desired.

Remove forms and install waterproofing and drainage system.

(see below for more information on contraction joints)

Create contraction joints every 4-6 feet.If the wall exceeds four feet in height, footings should be poured separately. Add rebar for reinforcement, Ralston places rebar every 16” on center.Remove existing plants, top soil and other debris that may be in the way of construction, Ralston calls this process grubbing.Design the walls - determine shape, size and placement.Meet with clients and determine what components they want and how the space will function.

Here are the steps Tom Ralston, owner of Tom Ralston Concrete in Santa Cruz, CA, follows when pouring a retaining wall: When installed properly, concrete offers much more room for customization than any other retaining wall material. Poured concrete retaining walls can be colored, textured, accented with embedded objects and much more.

With this high level of technicality comes incredible versatility. Prized for their strength and versatility, concrete retaining walls require precise construction methods.

#Concrete retaining wall block molds how to

How to Build a Concrete Retaining Wall A step-by-step guide to pouring concrete walls Updated June 26, 2020