Paver Pete tells us what rules to follow in segmental retaining wall construction.

The installation of a raised patio should follow all the rules of SRW construction because it is considered a structural retaining wall.

1^st RULE

Extend the base adequately beyond the heel and toe of the block. It should always extend by at least the equivalent of the base thickness.

2^nd RULE

The base needs to be minimum 6 inches thick. Therefore, we need an extension of 6 inches both in front and behind the first course of block.

3^rd RULE

The embedment of the wall needs to be either one full course of the tallest unit or the equivalent of 10% of the wall height, whichever is greater.

 The wall blocks should always be clean, free of any debris and always installed thumbprint up.

4th RULE

Only light compaction equipment should be used within 3 feet behind the wall.

Light compaction is preferable to prevent movement of the wall due to the mechanical effort.

In this area, the aggregate base lift thicknesses should be thinner to be able to have a lower compaction rating.

Further from the wall, heavier compaction can be performed with a larger compactor to construct in thicker lifts of stone.

The base material is ASTM C2940 (0-3/4”). Verify it has proper moisture before compacting it.

In this project, we have segmental retaining walls and interlocking pavement.

 It’s important to follow all the rules of construction for the interlocking pavement as well.

 Learn about SRW construction best practices by consulting the latest edition of the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) guide : http://ncma-br.org/pdfs/masterlibrary/

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