Building Walls
When building a wall, start by building up the ends of the wall over the level foundations to approximately three or four courses.
If you plan to build a retaining wall higher than 600mm or for any wall over 900mm, we recommend that you seek expert advice on its structure. As a general rule, the depth of the foundations should be between 1/4 and 1/3 of the walls height and the foundation width should be two or three times the walls width.
Remove topsoil and dig to firm ground and lay concrete foundations using 6 parts ballast to 1 part cement (or 4 parts coarse aggregate to 2 parts building sand to 1 part cement).
A building line should then be stretched from one end of the foundations to another. Build one course at a time, using a spirit level to check for accuracy, vertically, diagonally and horizontally.
Using a trowel, spread mortar (4 parts building sand to 1 part cement) evenly over the foundations and then over the blocks of each course as you lay them. The mortar should slightly exude from between the joints and any surplus should be removed with the trowel. Fill vertical joints as you go by applying mortar to one end of the block before positioning it adjacent to the previously laid block.
The blocks should be laid in a stretcher bond using half blocks at the end of each alternate course. It is recommended that no more than 6 to 8 courses are built at a time, allowing for the mortar to se before beginning building again.
Using a pointing trowel, smooth and finish the mortar joints. Top the wall with a matching coping.
If you are building a raised planter, barbecue or similar small garden feature on an existing concrete base or well laid patio, foundations may not be required.
If you require any help, please give us a call on 0800 032 6306 and we will try and assist you in all aspects of your landscaping project.
