Concrete Block Retaining Wall
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The Best Use for Concrete Block Retaining Walls
Concrete block retaining walls that are reinforced with steel and concrete form a high strength wall that will outlast many walls if built correctly.
They are great for walls that need to be plumb (vertically straight) and can be rendered, painted or cladded with different materials to give that high class look.
Concrete block walls can either be straight, angled or curved to form an architecturally designed masterpiece.
There are also different types of concrete block walls that we’ll explain next.
Types of Concrete Block Retaining Walls
There are different types of Concrete Block Retaining Walls:
Reinforced Concrete infill – Concrete infill describes the process of concrete blocks that have 2 hollow spaces inside the block that are reinforced with steel and filled with a concrete grout.- Dry stacked – this mortar free method uses concrete blocks from a brick size up to large sizes that require a crane to move them into place
Interlocking – concrete blocks specifically designed in various sizes to interlock together with no mortar required.
How long can a Concrete Block Retaining Wall be expected to last?
Concrete can last for over 100 years, so the importance of installing the correct supporting structure is paramount to ensure maximum lifespan.
The longevity of concrete block retaining walls is dependent on a number of contributing factors, including how well the footings are built, and what the retaining wall is supporting.
Unpredictable environmental influences such as heavy rainfall, or natural earth movement can all shorten the expected lifespan.
The Benefits of a Concrete Block Retaining Wall
These types of retaining walls are popular with the home handyman or widely used in larger scale Commercial and Industrial installations.
Some of the benefit are as follows:
- Reinforced Concrete infill – The walls can be vertical therefore lending themselves to tight spaces, close to existing structures and boundaries.
- Dry stacked – this mortar free method is perfect for the home handyman. In commercial areas they reduce the number of trades required to build the wall.
- Interlocking Concrete Blocks – Again, great for the home handyman. They can also be quick and efficient to build.
What is a Besser Block Retaining Wall?
Originally, these blocks were only available in one style of concrete. Besser blocks are exclusively manufactured by Adbri Masonry who have Trademarked the word Besser
In today’s market there is more choice available when designing besser block retaining walls.
For example, Besser blocks can be manufactured with a Split Face. This designer block features a bold, textured surface, resembling characteristics naturally found in split natural stone.
This type of block is popular because of its natural appeal, enabling it to form an attractive feature wall, as well as providing the structural requirements of a retaining wall.
Concrete Quantities to Fill Concrete Blocks
Following are the quantities of concrete grout required to fill concrete block walls.
200 series 190mm wide blocks
Block size is 390 long x 190 high x 190 wide. There are 12.5 blocks per square metre of wall.
Standard 190mm wide = 0.8m3 of concrete to fill 100 blocks
H blocks 190mm wide = 0.84m3 of concrete to fill 100 blocks
300 Series 290mm wide blocks
Block size is 390mm long x 190mm high x 290mm wide which also allows 12.5 blocks per square metre of wall.
Standard 290mm wide = 1.1m3 of concrete to fill 100 blocks
H blocks 290mm wide = 1.32m3 of concrete to fill 100 blocks
Who Regulates Concrete Block Walls
Australian standards regulate how concrete blocks are manufactured and how concrete block walls are to be built. The applicable Australian standards are
Australian standard 4678 Earth Retaining Structures
AS 3700 Masonry Structures
The standards can be purchased from the following or use the links.
A great place to find design information and manuals on concrete block retaining walls is at the Concrete Masonry Association of Australia
What about using Hebel Block Sheets in a Retaining Wall?
Hebel blocks and panels are constructed using autoclaved aerated concrete and are valued as a strong, versatile product, widely accepted as a premium product in today’s market.
Hebel block panels are all reinforced with steel and are seen as an environmentally sustainable option as they need less raw materials and require far less energy to produce compared to other construction products.
Hebel blocks are fire resistant offering a valid option in high bush fire danger zones.
Hebel Blocks have been proven to remain fully intact, able to withstand the intense heat from fire for up to 4 hours without any impairment to its stability.
The waterproof membrane is UV resistant, will not rot and being completely impermeable, ensuring Hebel block sheets long term durability.
Choosing to DIY a Concrete Block Retaining Wall
Having the confidence knowing that you have the skill set, tools and knowledge to construct your own concrete block retaining wall is admirable.
Before you start, be sure that you have the correct information, including permits and permission obtained from your local council.
Each state has their own building requirements and fence heights, meaning that a high percentage of concrete block retaining walls will involve design and installation to be carried out by a structural engineer and appropriate licensed tradesperson.
At Retaining Walls HQ we connect you with a licenced, experienced tradesperson in your area who will be able to offer their expertise, starting with a FREE no obligation quote. Simply go to your area.
On our home page you will find a great selection of different types of retaining walls. Have a look there if you are wanting a different type of wall.
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Concrete Block Retaining Wall FAQ
There are many different types of concrete blocks available. Some are dry stacked, some interlock and the more traditional way is to lay them in mortar.
Each Council does have some varying conditions so you should check your local councils specifications. However most councils in Australia allow walls upto 1 metre in height and 1.5 metres from a building or another retaining wall to be built without consent. State by state varies from 0.2m to 1m.
Interlocking or dry stacked blocks are a cheaper alternative to reinforced concrete block walls which are usually built by a contractor.
Reinforced concrete besser block walls are far stronger then brick retaining walls. They can also be built higher and have a superior loading capacity when compared to brick retaining walls.
Interlocking and dry stacked concrete blocks are perfect for DIY. However reinforced concrete blocks are best left to the professionals.