Retaining Walls

Retaining Walls

   A retaining wall holds back soil and groundwater where you've cut or terraced a slope. Unmortared stone walls, right, are one of many kinds you can build.
   To relieve the pressure of water against the wall's back side, a drainage system is a must. It usually consists of a perforated drainpipe, embedded in gravel and enclosed in soil-filter fabric .
   These kinds of retaining walls are the easiest to build:

Wood
Gravity-Stack Concrete
Brick Veneer
Stone

For additional information on the Web, try...
Allan Block Retaining Walls (http://www.allan-block.com/)

By the Book

Because the retained soil can weigh a great deal, walls over 3 feet high usually require a building permit. You may also be required to consult a licensed soils or structural engineer. The building instructions in this program are for walls 3 feet or under.