Position blocks to be offset from seams of blocks below. No longer just holding back earth, stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion, modern concrete block walls define pathways, create borders for outdoor rooms and serve as focal points in featureless yards. These are usually the best choice for tighter curves. These walls are inherently flexible allowing minor differential movement without compromising the structural integrity of the wall. The more expensive the block, the more it will look like natural stone. When stacked, it has the classic look of chiseled stone. Although they are a necessity in many yards, retaining walls are a great landscaping element and can visually enhance your entire outdoor living space. Wheel ruts fixed? Texas Main Office Keep the engineers letter handy should you sell your property as it will add value. Himmelberger Design a Minneapolis Based MODX Web Design Company. If the contractor fails to apply for a building permit or acquires one with incorrect or invalid information, you will receive a stop-work-order and a costly fine. Fax: 512.233.0540, Southwest Region Sonoma Mesa Development - San Antonio, TX. Available in many colors, styles, sizes and shapes, concrete modular block will blend into just about any environment. long x 6 to 8 in. Pay the extra charge to place your materials exactly where you want them. We recommend our users to update the browser. This is a concern in northern tier states or countries that use deicing salts. Forix blocks are capable of turning radii. After you set each course, you fill the cores with gravel, making the wall every bit as strong as a solid block wall. Individual course height may vary due to allowable block manufacturing tolerances per ATSM C1372. Perfect "running bond" is not essential, but a 3 in. 1.1 Work includes furnishing and installing modular concrete block retaining wall units to the lines and grades designated on the construction drawings and as specified herein. Phone: 210.341.7770 (200 mm). Its crucial to compact your footing material or youll have a sagging, crooked wall in the future. At Four Seasons Landscaping, we both custom-design and install retaining walls. endstream endobj 85 0 obj <>>> endobj 86 0 obj <>/ExtGState<>/ProcSet[/PDF/ImageC]/XObject<>>>/Rotate 0/TrimBox[0.0 0.0 612.0 792.0]/Type/Page>> endobj 87 0 obj [/Separation/PANTONE#20548#20C 88 0 R<>] endobj 88 0 obj [/ICCBased 99 0 R] endobj 89 0 obj <> endobj 90 0 obj <>stream Keep in mind that using heavy machinery will damage your yard, so you need to add in the costs of grading and resodding as well. Chesterfield, MO 63005 The modular block used for retaining walls over three feet in height should have a heavy-duty rating by the manufacturer and each block should weigh at least sixty pounds. These blocks are 16 to 18 in. Require a current passing ASTM C1262 or equivalent governing standard or public authority, test report from material supplier in northern or cold weather climates. Enter your Zip code for local information about product availability, colors, and textures. high and weigh 50 to 75 lbs. Fax: 636.532.7773, Southwest Region Block size varies. Heres a list. The simple fact is, hundreds of residential and commercial modular block retaining walls are not being built correctly and failure rates are rising as a result. (300 mm) behind the base course with wall rock. 720 S. Colorado Blvd. Although specific shapes, colors and textures vary by region, almost every manufacturer produces four main styles (see photos). Check your local city hall or county courthouse for modular block retaining wall building height restrictions. Made from pre-engineered concrete forms, modular block retaining wall systems combine durability and affordability. Use infill soils behind the wall rock and approved soils in front of the base course to firmly lock in place. (150 mm) minimum depth for walls over 4 ft (1.2 m). !s"=9(x@ Contractors shall be trained and certified by local manufacturer or equivalent accredited organization. Exterior face shall be textured. Features, Perm Modular block units offer the designer ability to incorporate tight curves or corners at a site and satisfy other complex architectural layouts. We offer retaining wall landscaping services for homeowners all over the area. The cost of block is only a piece of the total project budget. For example, all block systems have limits as to how tight a curve they can form without being cut. Foundation soil shall be defined as any soils located beneath a wall. Dont wreck your back or your vehicle. Modular block units offer the site designer flexibility with respect to retaining wall locations, wall layout, height, and constructability. Call (240) 252-4807 today. San Antonio, TX 78230 In hilly or sloped yards, retaining walls are often necessary for soil erosion purposes. The base material shall be the same as the. Modular block can also incorporate attractive steps and stairways that are either rounded or squared in design. Compared to other types of retaining walls, modular block retaining walls are: Have questions about installing a modular retaining wall in Bethesda, MD or the surrounding areas? Modular block, or segmental block, is one of the most popular types of retaining wallsin fact, youve probably seen one in your friends or neighbors yard. but are the most versatile. Same As Cash Financing for Up to 12 months! u)kHf3ksa Y#Tzf.w\l^Y#?,bMl}CdKlsna"O&nQ9 CP~9m4\HN4*AVa`(pQ@B^) @8YX yJ|kMLzz{b8\~=&3:PzAv I5OII:jEHX)_i{. These details often account for why one bid is significantly higher or lower than another. Base material shall be a 4 in. When you have made your choice, request a COI (certificate of insurance) and confirm the name of the company matches. How to Choose the Right Retaining Wall Material, Patio Tiles: How to Build a Patio With Ceramic Tile, How to Install a Vapor Barrier in a Crawlspace, Build a Circular Patio and Retaining Wall, Fountain: How to Build a Concrete Fountain, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), How to Pour a Concrete Slab Successfully: 31 Tips, Do Not Sell My Personal Information CA Residents. Color as specified by owner. (3 mm). Concrete block retaining walls in moist environments, like the south for instance, are especially vulnerable to staining. This article will help you sort through your options and discuss what you need to know before you shop so you can buy the right block for your garden or retaining wall. Material must be well-graded compactable aggregate, 0.25 in. Theres a lot of heavy work, including tons of fill and footing material to get delivered and moved. If you want a modular block retaining wall in your yard, contact the landscaping professionals in Rockville, MD and the surrounding areas at Four Seasons Landscaping today! As these ongoing site visits add up, it costs less in the long run to hire a retaining wall company with its own engineer. See the. If built correctly, modular block retaining wall systems are very stable and long lasting; however, that is only if they are built correctly! You have to order special blocks for corners and caps. Embankment protection fabric shall be a high strength polypropylene monofilament material designed to meet or exceed typical NTPEP specifications; stabilized against ultraviolet (UV) degradation and typically exceeding the values in Section 3, Table 1 in the AB Spec Book. From intricate landscaping features to tall, commercial walls, VERSA-LOK delivers your best value in segmental retaining wall solutions. Home centers carry some systems, but youll find the widest variety of options at landscape suppliers. US Patents: #6792731, #7775747, #D625028, #D624204, #6948282, #8851803, #D893760, #D893053, #6523317, #7185470, #7524144 Canada Patents: #2357879, #2657978, #133183, #136083, #2432660, #2357879. VERSA-LOK provides the best value in segmental retaining wall solutions for everything from intricate landscaping features to tall, commercial walls. Phone: 469-262-1040, West Region If youre using a contractor, youll obviously pay labor costs. It offers a high-end look and feel and is available in many colors and styles. Base shall be compacted at 95% Standard Proctor (ASTM D698) to provide a level hard surface on which to place the first course of blocks. Then youll have everything you need to choose the material and narrow down prices on one trip. Allan Block and NCMA have certification programs that are accredited. Fill all cavities in and around wall units and to a minimum of 12 in. Different length blocks can be mixed to further vary the look. Where additional fill is required, contractor shall submit sample and specifications to the wall design engineer or the onsite soils engineer for approval and the approving engineer must certify that the soils proposed for use has properties meeting or exceeding original design standards. Install units in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and recommendations for the specific concrete retaining wall unit, and as specified herein. And when stabilized with geogrid soil reinforcement, VERSA-LOK walls can be built 50 feet tall and even higher. Fort Worth, TX 76119 Modular block retaining wall construction plans should include soil reinforcement measures and water management systems which reduce damaging hydrostatic pressure and extend the life of the retaining wall. (300 mm) depth behind block with wall rock. per row. Australia Patents: #2009201036, #2003204789, #785064 New Zealand Patents: #575515, #413355; #413721, #413722, #413723, #526518 International and Other Patents Pending. If you plan to build your own wall, beware. Contact us for complete details. Designs, Where To It does not constitute professional advice. The information on this website is for informational purposes only; it is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Mid range: $9 to$10 per sq. Your walls requirements will help narrow your options. Ensure that units are in full contact with base. All rights reserved. Our professionals pay special attention to all the details, particularly drainage and freeze-thaw cycles, to make sure your retaining wall will last for a long time. jd)(o{GJCyNk*N8? Contractor shall prevent excessive mud, cementitious material, and like construction debris from coming in contact with the materials. 2022 Four Seasons Landscaping & Nursery. The base shall be constructed to ensure proper wall embedment and the final elevation shown on the plans. Identify when advanced certification levels are appropriate based on complexity and criticality of project application. Its muted appearance will look in style for years. | Privacy Policy |Sitemap. Foundation soil shall be examined by the on-site soils engineer to ensure that the actual foundation soil strength meets or exceeds assumed design strength. A pin or a clip system, made from tough plastic or fiberglass, anchors each row of blocks to the ones below. A freestanding garden wall 3 ft. or less in height that serves a more decorative function gives you more flexibility with the size, style and type of block you choose. Standard AB Unit - Approximate Dimensions, Standard AB Fieldstone Unit - Approximate Dimensions. Consult the Allan Block Engineering Department for additional details at engineering@allanblock.com or (800)899-5309. These relatively small blocks (about 12 in. Local Office Durable, solid VERSA-LOK units have no voids to fill and can be modified easily on-site to create a variety of special landscaping features. Install each subsequent course in like manner. Do you want the block to blend with your propertys existing features or to inject something new into the landscape? VERSA-LOK retaining walls deliver flexibility, attractive facing options, and cost-effectiveness, making them the perfect solution for residential landscaping. Forix is a concrete precast modular block retaining wall system. long x 4 in. No-Cut Designs, Fire Professional retaining wall builders will also schedule their own engineers site visits to coincide with the building steps so progress never stops. Check each block for proper alignment and level. Different block systems are suited to different project requirements. Contractor must verify wall height, if noted as being critical, prior to completion of construction to ensure the elevation of the top of the wall or the controlling elevation matches desired plan elevation, if noted as critical. Skid steer rental ($200 per day). Based on good performance experience by several agencies, ASTM C1372, or equivalent governing standard or public authority, Standard Specification for Segmental Retaining Wall Units should be used as a model, except that, to increase durability, the compressive strength for the units should be increased to a minimum of 4,000 5,800 psi (28 - 40 MPa) unless local requirements dictate higher levels. Even if you plan to hire a pro, shop around to see actual walls rather than depending on contractors pictures to imagine how yours will look. Forix Block are large in size yet economical in weight and engineering efficiency. All four sides are finished and they have special blocks for columns, corners and ends. Living These mortarless walls do not need frost footings. Compaction requirements for all soils in areas in, around and behind the reinforced mass shall be compacted to 95% of maximum Standard Proctor dry density (ASTM D698) with a moisture content control of +1% to -3% of optimum. Least expensive: $4 to $8 per sq. Corporate Headquarters They are also easily constructed around trees or other site features. This article surveys the choices and explains the options. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Theyre available in a limited number of styles and colors. Curves, tiers, stairs, and more are a snap with VERSA-LOK Retaining Wall Systems. A good rule of thumb for a contractor-built wall is to double the materials pricein other words, half labor, half materials. In general, use small block for smaller walls. The concrete units shall have adequate freeze-thaw protection with an average absorption rate in accordance with ASTM C1372 or an average absorption rate of 7.5 lb/ft. Fax: 210.341.7773, West Region (75 mm) minimum offset is recommended. Be sure to verify whether an engineers plan is required to obtain the necessary building permits. Topsoil included? Also, maximum water absorption should be reduced and requirements for freeze-thaw testing increased. Contractors shall provide a list of projects they have completed. Contact us today for a quote! 5008 Vesta Farley Rd Contractor shall verify locations of existing structures and utilities prior to excavation. Segmental block retaining walls consist of masonry units that are placed without mortar and rely on their mass as well as interlocking to prevent sliding and overturning. Retaining walls above that height must be designed or approved by a licensed engineer. Phone: 512-828-4167 Denver CO, 80246, Southwest Region If you want one in your yard in the Montgomery, Howard, or Frederick County, Maryland area, Four Seasons has you covered. Gator Efflorescence Cleaner & Shampoo Products, Forix Block End Unit 24 x 24: 18H x 24W x 24 D, Forix Block Corner Unit 48 x 24: 18H x 48W x 24D, Triangular geometry of rear legs create an arching effect with stone backfill resulting in downward pressure on block units, Less fright weight & manufacturing costs compared to solid precast concrete wall units, Can be designed & constructed taller than conventional gravity height walls using geogrid reinforcement, Automatic vertical alignment control by means of lugs on the bottom of units. For taller wall applications, structural fill should be specified for a minimum bottom 1/3 to 1/2 of the reinforced fill. See why Architects & Engineers, Contractors and Homeowners all love VERSA-LOK Retaining Wall Systems. Shopping for modular block can be confusing because of the many colors, textures, shapes, styles and stacking systems available. Foundation soil shall be excavated as dimensioned on the plans and compacted to a minimum of 95% of. VERSA-LOK segmental retaining walls are made from high-strength concrete units, dry-stacked, interlocked with pins, and set on granular leveling pads. Plate compactor rental ($50 per day). Will the driveway be repaired? The infill soil used must meet or exceed the designed friction angle and description noted on the design cross sections, and must be free of debris and consist of one of the following inorganic USCS soil types: GP, GW, SW, SP, GP-GM or SP-SM meeting the following gradation as determined in accordance with ASTM D422. Avoid disasters by requesting at least three quotes by reputable retaining wall companies. Repeat procedure to the extent of wall height. These systems are fussier but will let you slide the block forward (no setback) if you need a more vertical wall (such as where a wall meets the corner of a house). VERSA-LOKs unique hole-to-slot pinning system provides your walls with an automatic setback, improving stability and making installation a snap. This type also requires more expert advice for curves, corners and stairs. 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Based upon examination of numerous completed SRWs, the following recommended minimum tolerances can be achieved with good construction techniques. The edges are rounded to soften its appearance and make it look more weathered and natural. (100 mm) minimum depth for walls under 4 ft (1.2 m) and a 6 in. Soil not meeting the required strength shall be removed and replaced with acceptable material. 3000 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., 28A The typical setback is 1-1/4 in. Systems also vary in how they handle corners, setbacks, cap blocks, columns and steps. Fax: 512.233.0540, Southwest Region The COI will verify that you are a certificate holder should anything go wrong during the construction of your retaining wall. The following specifications provide Allan Block Corporation's typical requirements and recommendations. Damaged material shall not be incorporated in the project (ASTM C1372). Penthouse North Local Office We are open and taking additional precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our customers and employees. and work best for accent walls around the yard and garden up to about 30 in. Contractor shall protect the materials from damage. Contractor Resources|Dealer Login|Designer Resources|AB GO. Contractor shall check the materials upon delivery to assure proper material has been received. Exterior dimensions shall be uniform and consistent. Uploading photos is strongly encouraged in order to receive an accurate estimate. If a plan prepared by a civil or structural engineer is required to apply for the building permit, be sure the retaining wall company you hire has such an engineer on staff. Top of the line: $11 to $15 per sq. \Ov~=Jr%aIi(0`8jCH Bg@yneJk This typical small size and weight of modular block units permitthe construction of walls in difficult access locations. (13 mm) on the base material. ft. Austin, TX 78664 high) are lightweight (less than 25 lbs.) Install next course of wall units on top of base course. A block splitter costs $90 per day. Base material shall be installed on undisturbed native soils or suitable replacement fills compacted to a minimum of 95% Standard Proctor (ASTM D698). Midwest Region Well-graded sand can be used to smooth the top 1/2 in. Verify each has been building retaining walls for at least ten years in your area, are licensed and insured, and provides references unsolicited with their estimate. If structural fill is not utilized in the reinforced mass, the depth of wall rock behind the block should be increased. You can also have the landscape yard split the blocks for you. Big wow factor. Big walls usually entail excavating and moving tons of soil and gravel as well as the heavy block itself. The most expensive block offers the greatest flexibility in design potential, styles, colors and wall size. Solid and semi-solid blocks are heavy (up to 75 lbs.) ft. Mid-priced block is good for highly visible walls where function is still the primary concern. Wall units shall have minimum 28 day compressive strength of 3000 psi (20.7 MPa) in accordance with ASTM C1372. D&$ 5 stars from 10 reviews. (ASTM D422). Delivery charges for materials. The garden wall size is the most common. You need a block retaining wall in at your Bethesda, MD or surrounding area home to stop it. Local Office - DFW Best used for straight walls; curves require more building experience and block cutting. At the engineer of record's discretion these specifications may be revised to accommodate site specific design requirements. Variability in construction of SRWs is approximately equal to that of cast-in-place concrete retaining walls. This fabric should permit the passage of fines to preclude clogging of the material. Embankment protection fabric is used to stabilize rip rap and foundation soils in water applications and to separate infill materials from the retained soils. This combination of tumbled and weathered block in different sizes and colors gives a wall a custom-fitted look. Make sure to agree on the front end whether your contractor will provide final grading and resodding (or will leave your yard a total disaster). These walls can be daunting to do yourself, so think it through before you unknowingly dedicate a whole summer to the task. Material behind and within the blocks may be the same material. Pavers, Advanced Heavy-duty walls require full-size blocks, which are available at landscape suppliers. The corners are split off the face of this block, leaving a highly textured, rounded surface. Pits, Water Phone: 303-284-2584, 2022 Rosch CompanyAll rights reserved.Site Map, They are cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, earth retaining wall structures that typically offer a, Can be efficiently designed and constructed in a, Numerous aesthetic options for the facing -. Walk around most residential neighborhoods and youll find concrete block retaining and garden walls dotting the landscape. The details of your project will help you decide on a block system. Rows of modular blocks and caps are used to create new and replacement retaining walls. Denver CO, 80246 HU1+|FJW1)`SN4CU\'_^+|xq'b+;w~'5&NXB+Cb When you shop, take along a sketch of the walls height, length, radius of inside and outside curves, and specific features. ft. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. These easy-to-install blocks are often used for garden walls. Penthouse North Check again for level and alignment. Stop Work Order and Fine for Retaining Wall Replacement in Alpharetta, Retaining Wall Regulations Protect Consumers, Not All Retaining Wall Companies Are The Same, Hiring a Professional Retaining Wall Contractor. modular concrete block retaining wall units, ASTM C1372 Standard Specification for Segmental Retaining Wall Units, ASTM C1262 Evaluating the Freeze thaw Durability of Manufactured CMUs and Related concrete Units, ASTM D698 Moisture Density Relationship for Soils, Standard Method, ASTM C140 Sample and Testing concrete Masonry Units. Maximum dimensional deviations on the height of any two units shall be 0.125 in. Do you need to install a new retaining wall in your yard? Each block system will accommodate curves, steps, corners, caps and setbacks differently. If your new or replacement retaining wall will be visible on a daily basis you may prefer a concrete masonry retaining wall. Consider these points carefully when comparing estimates. Modular block is designed to be porous, which means water will penetrate it; while this adds to the strength of the wall, it also means the block will likely become stained over time from effervescence, mold and mildew. However, they arent quite as versatile because you cant vary the setback (the amount each course of wall steps back into the slope). The triangular geometry of the rear legs create an anchoring effect with backfill resulting in downward pressure on block units for stability. Block is heavy, even the garden wall variety. We can help you find the right design for you! Contractor shall ensure all surrounding structures are protected from the effects of wall excavation. Modular block walls are dry-stacked systems that can generally tolerate movement and settlement without causing significant structural distress at the face because the modular block units may move and adjust relative to each other. Retaining walls, because theyre load-bearing and slope into a hill slightly, require larger blocks and beefier connections. Use a. 3000 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., 28A All information is subject to change at any time without notice. Is your landscape starting to see bare roots or areas where water puddles near hills?