When building a retaining wall, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that the base is sturdy and level. Without a strong foundation, your retaining blocks could shift or sink over time, causing structural instability. One effective way to create a solid foundation is by placing paver stones under the retaining blocks. Paver stones act as a supportive layer, providing stability and preventing the blocks from shifting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of putting paver stones under retaining blocks step by step, ensuring your project is set up for long-term success.
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Materials You'll Need:
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Retaining blocks: Choose blocks designed specifically for retaining walls. They’re available in various shapes and sizes.
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Paver stones: Standard paver stones (e.g., concrete pavers) that will form the base layer.
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Crushed stone or gravel: This will be used as the base material beneath the paver stones.
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Sand: For leveling and filling gaps between pavers.
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Shovel and rake: For leveling the ground and spreading materials.
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Rubber mallet: To tap paver stones into place without damaging them.
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Level: A tool to ensure everything is properly aligned and level.
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Measuring tape: To measure distances and ensure proper placement.
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String line or laser level: To check for alignment across the length of your retaining wall.
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Wheelbarrow: For transporting gravel or sand.
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Gloves and safety glasses: To protect your hands and eyes while working.
Read more: How to lay paving stones
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Paver Stones Under Retaining Blocks
Step 1: Plan and Mark the Area
The first step is to plan your retaining wall’s layout. Determine the exact location and length of the wall, then mark the area where the blocks will go. You can use a string line or marking spray paint to define the edges of the wall. Make sure the lines are straight and even, and use a measuring tape to ensure the correct dimensions.
Step 2: Excavate the Ground
Once you’ve marked the area, begin digging. You need to remove any grass, weeds, or debris from the area, as these could interfere with the stability of the retaining wall.
Use a shovel to dig down about 4 to 6 inches, depending on the height of the retaining blocks and the type of paver stones you’re using. The depth should be sufficient to accommodate a layer of crushed stone or gravel, followed by a layer of sand, and then the paver stones.
Read more: How to Fix Loose Paver Stones: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 3: Add a Layer of Crushed Stone or Gravel
The next step is to lay a foundation of crushed stone or gravel. This material helps with drainage, which is vital for the long-term health of your retaining wall. Without proper drainage, water could accumulate behind the wall, leading to pressure and potential failure.
Spread a 3 to 4-inch layer of crushed stone or gravel across the excavated area. Use a rake to distribute it evenly, and then compact the gravel using a tamper or plate compactor. Make sure the surface is level and smooth to create a solid base for the paver stones.
Step 4: Install the Paver Stones
Now comes the crucial step: placing the paver stones. Start at one end of the area and lay the first paver stone on top of the compacted gravel. The paver stones should fit together snugly but should also have enough space between them to allow for some flexibility and drainage.
Use a rubber mallet to tap each paver stone into place. Be careful not to strike too hard, as this could crack the stones. Ensure that each stone is level both side-to-side and front-to-back. You can use a level to check this regularly and adjust as necessary. Continue laying the stones across the entire area, ensuring they remain level and tightly packed.
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Step 5: Add Sand Between the Pavers
Once all the paver stones are in place, spread a thin layer of sand over the surface. Use a broom to sweep the sand into the gaps between the pavers. This will help lock them into place and prevent them from shifting over time. The sand also provides a bit of flexibility, allowing for minor adjustments if needed.
After the sand is swept into the gaps, use a tamper or plate compactor to gently compact the pavers again. This helps settle the sand and ensures the stones are tightly held together.
Step 6: Level the Ground and Check Alignment
Before placing the retaining blocks on top of the paver stones, it’s essential to double-check that everything is level and properly aligned. Use a string line or laser level to check that the paver stones are in line with each other. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a straight, level surface.
It’s also a good idea to check the alignment and levelness of the entire retaining wall. The first few layers of pavers should be placed carefully to ensure the wall will be stable and not shift over time.
Read more: How to Calculate How Many Paver Stones You Need for Your Project
Step 7: Place the Retaining Blocks
With the paver stones in place and the ground properly leveled, it’s time to add the retaining blocks. Start placing the blocks on top of the paver stones, beginning at one end of the wall. Place the first block directly onto the paver stones, and ensure it’s level. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap each block into place, ensuring it’s snug against the previous one.
Work your way down the wall, making sure to check the alignment and level of each block as you go. The paver stones should act as a solid base to hold the blocks securely in place. As you build up the layers of retaining blocks, continue checking the level to maintain a straight, stable structure.
Step 8: Backfill and Compact
Once the retaining blocks are in place, backfill the area behind the wall with soil, gravel, or another appropriate material. It’s important to add the backfill gradually, compacting it in layers to avoid creating air pockets or weak spots behind the wall.
Use a shovel to add the backfill material and a tamper to compact it. Make sure the backfill is evenly distributed and well-compacted to ensure the stability of the retaining wall.
Placing paver stones under retaining blocks is a highly effective method for creating a stable and long-lasting retaining wall. By following these steps, you ensure that the wall has a solid foundation and that the blocks remain securely in place for years to come. It’s important to take your time with each step, especially when leveling the ground and aligning the paver stones. With patience and careful work, you can build a retaining wall that not only looks great but also serves its purpose effectively.
Remember, preparation is key—by starting with a well-prepared base, your retaining wall will be more durable and resistant to the elements. With proper installation, the paver stones and retaining blocks will work together to provide both functionality and beauty to your landscape.
