Can You Use Retaining Wall Blocks As Edgers?

Block Types

• Wall blocks come in several styles, with cinder blocks being the most basic. Due to their thickness, cinder blocks only work for edging if you desire a taller edge or are willing to bury them partially in the ground. Cinder blocks have two holes running through them that will be visible when you use them as edging. Solid wall blocks come in a variety of widths and thicknesses. Shapes include square, rectangle and scalloped edge. These work better as edging stones since they are thinner and don't contain holes.

Edging Preparation

• Leveling the ground prior to installation ensures the wall blocks sit flat. Uneven blocks aren't attractive and can pose a tripping hazard. Dig a trench the same width as the blocks and approximately as deep as half the block's thickness. Scrape a flat board over the bottom of the trench to even out any bumps and provide a perfectly level surface. A 1-inch layer of crushed paver stone, firmly tamped down, helps prevent the blocks from settling and becoming uneven after installation.

Installation Method

• Begin at one end of the edging strip and work toward the opposite end. Working in a linear fashion eliminates the chances of needing multiple half blocks. At most, your edging may require you to split a wall block in two at the end if there isn't room for a whole block. A masonry saw quickly cuts through the block. Set the blocks in the trench, and tamp each one firmly in place. Set them as close together as possible to prevent shifting. You may need to remove some crushed stone from the trench if one block sits slightly higher than the block next to it.

Multi-Tier Installation

• Creating a short edging wall around a planter bed allows you to build up a higher level of soil within the edged area. Wall blocks are heavy enough that they don't require mortaring for a short two-tier or three-tier edging wall. Stagger the joins between each tier to create a sturdier wall. Some wall block designs lock together when stacked. These block types have ridges on the top and channels in the bottom that fit together to create a sturdier edging wall.