Ideas for Replacing a Concrete Block Retaining Wall

Concrete Block

• One idea for replacing a concrete block retaining wall is to simply replace the original blocks with similar concrete blocks. This option is especially desirable if many of the original blocks are reusable. The Landscape Network website says concrete blocks are a time-tested element of retaining walls because their strength and endurance provide relative permanence compared to other building materials. You may choose to rebuild your existing retaining wall using traditional concrete blocks and mortar, or you may opt for mortarless, dry-stacked concrete blocks.

Specialty Blocks

• For a more unique idea, you may choose to either incorporate a variety of specialty blocks into your existing structure or replace the entire concrete block retaining wall. For example, you may opt for contemporary glass blocks or old world-style stackable blocks made to resemble classic French, English, or Spanish stonework. Urbanite, or concrete recycled from reconstructed sidewalks, highways, and other improvement projects, is another type of specialty block that could be incorporated into a retaining wall. You may choose to stain the Urbanite with iron sulphate or a similar finisher to add to the aesthetic appeal of the blocks.

Poured Concrete

• If poor stability brought down an existing concrete block retaining wall, you may opt to replace the blocks with poured concrete, one of the most structurally sound options available on the market today. If you wish to combine both stability and aesthetic appeal, you may choose to build a poured concrete retaining wall stained to replicate the look of masonry. You might also choose to add a variety of ornamental elements, such as molded cornices and column bases.

Natural Elements

• Natural building blocks, such as wood and earth, are also viable structural elements that may be used when replacing a concrete block retaining wall. These options are especially attractive if you wish to avoid the parking garage appearance of concrete blocks or poured concrete. Some of the more common types of wood used in retaining walls include redwood, pressure treated lumber, and recycled rail ties. While soil alone is typically not enough to provide stability in a retaining wall, you may choose to incorporate building elements like welded wire matting to reinforce an earthen wall without making it apparent that it is constructed from anything other than soil.