How to Lay Stacked Stone

Dig the foundation area and remove dirt from behind the wall for installation of drainage.

Mix concrete by hand or with a gas-powered concrete mixer. Pour the concrete into the depression for the foundation. Smooth the foundation's surface and allow the concrete to set for 24 hours.

Mix mortar and lay one row of concrete masonry units, starting at one corner of the foundation. Lay the first row close to the back of the foundation. Place mortar directly on the foundation for your first row. For subsequent rows, place mortar beneath the block and keep a 3/8-inch joint between blocks. Stagger your second row of block by cutting the first block of the second row in half. This ensures that joints are staggered and strengthens the wall. Continue laying rows of block until you reach the desired height.

Install drainage behind the wall. Spread crushed stone to form a 2-inch-thick gravel bed in a 12-inch-deep trench. The gravel should slope in the direction you want the water to drain. Lay perforated 4-inch pipe on the gravel, extending it at least 6 inches beyond the end of the wall. Cover the pipe with 6 to 8 inches of crushed stone and cover the remaining 6 inches of the trench with topsoil.

Place stakes in the ground and attach a mason's line as a guide to place the faces and tops of stacked stone evenly. Start at the bottom and work your way up. Use the trowel to place 1 or 2 inches of mortar on the back of the stone. Lay a 1-inch mortar bed on the foundation where the stone will be placed.

Place the stone firmly against the wall and to the foundation and wiggle the stone from side to side for better attachment. Use a rock hammer to tap the stone into place.

Lay your second stone in place and use the 1-foot and 2-foot level throughout the process to ensure the rows are straight. Finish the entire wall.

Clean excess mortar from the stone's surface using a hard sponge, wire brush and water.