How to build a retaining wall to stop water?

Building a retaining wall to stop water is an important part of landscape design and construction. Depending on the amount of water you need to control, and the terrain involved, the procedures and materials can vary. Generally though, here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Dig a trench – Depending on the wall height, the trench should be several feet deep, and at least 6 inches wider than the wall width.

2. Line the trench – Line the trench with plastic sheeting to separate the soil behind the wall from the surrounding soil.

3. Fill the trench – Use a material such as gravel to fill the trench and level it off.

4. Add geotextile fabric or Geocell grid – This increases the strength and stability of the wall by preventing soil from clogging drainage pipes and providing additional support.

5. Add drainage pipe – Install large-diameter drainage pipe along the back of the wall for water runoff.

6. Backfill – Use a material such as pea gravel to slowly fill the trench behind the wall.

7. Build the wall – Building a retaining wall is best done using interlocking concrete blocks. Stack the blocks vertically, filling any gaps with gravel.

8. Finish the wall – Once the wall is complete, use a trowel to smooth any rough edges or seams and add a sealant to keep moisture out.