Dry Stack Cement Block Retaining Wall
Stack the second course of blocks on top of the first course making sure they remain level.
Dry stack cement block retaining wall. The outside temperature spikes and plunges are buffered by this block wall mass in conventional homes. Sweep away all debris from the top of the first course of block with a broom. Minor roughness and variations in level can be corrected by setting the first course in mortar. This video shows you how to build a dry stack concrete block wall without mortar using quikrete quikwall surface.
Whether you re installing a new. Dry stack concrete block cinder block technique uses surface bonding cement sbc instead of mortar for high thermal mass htm thermic walls that are waterproof and much stronger than conventionally laid mortar block walls. Before applying the surface bonding cement dampen the surface of the block. Earth bermed and thermal mass homes often use dry stacked wall construction because of its convenience.
You willneed somemortar to create a solid foundation for your wall but we ll cover that later. This built in drainage helps to eliminate water pressure. Blocks should be laid in running bond such that cells will be aligned vertically. It can add strength to the modern ever present concrete castle block garden retaining wall or to more traditional walls made from stone or brick components.
Fill the concrete cores with crushed gravel. Throughout the block stacking phase and at the completion check that the wall has remained level. A dry stack wall is a block wall that doesn t need mortar to hold it together. The first course of dry stack block should be placed on a smooth level bearing surface of proper size and strength to ensure a plumb and stable wall.
Step 7 thoroughly dampen the block wall with water dry block will draw the water from the mix making it difficult to finish and can cause inconsistent color and cracking especially in. How to build a block wall without mortar. Please note that this area is not to be used as a primary water management element. Backfill with gravel behind the wall to cover the drainage pipe.
Once the first course is set dry stack the remaining block in a running bond pattern to the desired height all corners should use an interlocking pattern. The dry stack construction technique allows the incidental water to escape by flowing around the blocks and out the retaining wall face.