Free-Standing vs Retaining Walls

1. Layout and elevations; verify clearances.
2. Excavate trench (about 8–12 in below grade); compact subgrade.
3. Geotextile as needed; add 3/4 in minus base in 2 in lifts; compact.
4. Screed bedding layer; set first course level and straight.
5. Build courses with adhesive/pins; check plumb and alignment.
6. Install cap units; cleanup and final backfill/landscape.

Great for seating, edges, screening, and decorative accents.

• Segmental wall block or veneered CMU
• 3/4 in minus base aggregate and bedding
• Construction adhesive; geotextile (as needed)
• Caps (smooth, rockface, or natural stone)

• Not engineered to retain soil; no surcharge loads.
• Seat walls by patios: plan cap overhangs and lighting.

1. Layout, heights, drainage plan; call locates.
2. Excavate for footing and embedment; proof-roll subgrade.
3. Geotextile (site dependent); base in 2 in lifts; compact.
4. Set base course dead-level; ensure system setback.
5. Place clean gravel backfill; perforated drain pipe to outlet.
6. Build courses; add geogrid per design (height/surcharge).
7. Top course, cap, finish grading; test drainage path.

Walls over local limits or with surcharge typically require engineering/permits.

• SRW block or engineered CMU/stone system
• 3/4 in clean drainage gravel + geotextile
• Perforated drain pipe and outlet fittings
• Geogrid reinforcement (per design)

• Positive drain outlet (daylight, basin, or tie-in).
• Backfill in lifts; keep fines out of drainage zone.
• Consider surcharge (driveways, slopes, structures).