The first step is to determine the size or area of the Retaining Wall Construction Nashville  by linear foot. This will figure into the estimate of materials needed later. Mark off the area with a string line and allow for extra room on the sides of the retaining wall blocks for a good gravel base.

Estimate the materials needed, chose desired retaining wall blocks, the size you choose will determine the amount needed, for example: if 12 inch blocks are used the number times the linear foot needed is obvious. If 8 or 16 inch blocks are used, convert total linear distance needed to inches and divide by 8 for an eight inch block. Estimate base material -gravel(3/4 " quarry process) for under Nashville Retaining Walls , use 4-6 inch gravel base, more if retaining wall is higher in size.

Preparing for a good retaining wall base is important and will be the most time consuming process. Excavate by shovel or loader if available, use local digging laws to make sure to avoid any buried cable. If possible use a landscape fabric under gravel for better support and protect base from soil. Some areas may require a deeper base (6 or more inches) due to poor soil or recent disturbed soil from new house construction. Next - get the gravel base in by wheelbarrow, shovel, loader, and rake it out to approximate level.

Grade the retaining wall base with a rake and 2X4 to get an even base where the wall will be placed. The string line should be in place with a proper level set and the direction of the wall. So when the base is ready and compacted to the correct string level, all you need to do is line the rear flat side of the retaining wall blocks with the string and keep on placing blocks. When installing string line, keep in mind that the first coarse of blocks should be 3/4 buried for good support of the entire wall.

Use a plate compactor or like compaction device to get a good solid base for the wall. If the gravel is too dry, wet it down some with a garden hose to make it pack better. Grade additional times after each compaction until complete.

Lay the retaining wall blocks along the string line until the first layer is complete, remember to have this first coarse secured well, some bury the first layer almost completely or 3/4 buried so the base is strong. When layer 1 is done, the next coarse is easier, up to the height you want to make it. Use a landscape block adhesive between each coarse for extra strength.

Some retaining wall blocks may need to be cut to finish or match nicely to a foundation or other structure. Use a diamond blade chop saw to get a nice cut. measure block in place and cut on your marked line. Retaining wall caps are a good option to use, they add a better appearance and will not allow weeds to grow between the joints on top of a wall. (depends on type of block used) secure with a landscape block adhesive for added strength.