STEP 1 :
Delimit the shape of the wall with spray paint, or either with rope and wooden stakes.
STEP 2 :
Excave 15 inches deep. Note that the thickness of the excavation will vary depending on the model of the wall block and the final height of the wall. For a low wall of 3 feet or less, excavate 12 inches wide. For a low wall of 4 feet or more, excavate 24 inches wide while keeping 12 inches behind the wall for the drainage stone.
STEP 3 :
Install the geotextile membrane in the bottom of the trench. For walls 4 feet and over, remember to have enough membrane to cover the 3/4" clear part of the stone.
STEP 4 :
Backfill 3 inches of 0-3/4" crushed stone, water lightly and compact using the vibrating plate or a "jumping jack". Repeat this process until you have obtained a foundation 9 inches deep for walls 3 feet or less, or 12 inches deep for walls 4 feet or more. The thickness of the foundation may differ depending on the model and the final wall height.
STEP 5 :
Spread 1 inch of stone dust and level it out.
STEP 6 :
For a low wall of 3 feet or less: bury half a block in the ground. The first row of blocks is the most important because it will influence the other blocks above. Make sure that the first row is level and stable. Install the other blocks, making sure they are properly seated in each other, with the alignment key and overlapping the joints. If you wish, you can install a 3 inch diameter French drain at the back of the base of the wall. For a low wall of 4 feet or more: Place two blocks, one behind the other or a foundation slab that will be buried in the ground. The second row of blocks will be half buried. Install a 4 inch diameter agricultural drain at the back of the base of the wall.
STEP 7 :
For walls 4 feet and over: every second row, fill the rear part with 3/4" clear crushed stone. Stop about 6 inches from the end of the wall and bring the geotextile membrane back over the clean stone.
STEP 8 :
Install the finishing blocks while gluing them with masonry adhesive. For a very safe wall, you can glue all the blocks together, but this is optional.
