Retaining Walls

Demolition

Demolition of retaining walls (essential tools)

In order to remove existing retaining walls you need several tools: sawzall with sharp blades, a hammer, a chisel, and a crowbar. A sawzall is necessary for cutting between wooden members of the retaining wall (cutting the metal spikes holding the retaining wall members together). It is also necessary for cutting retaining wall wood members in half for removal. A chainsaw is useful for this task as well, as I found that it cuts through the retaining wall pieces more easily. A hammer, chisel and crowbar are essential demolition tools in general and useful for prying and removing pieces of retaining wall.

Logistical issues involved in the installation of 1-layer high retaining wall slabs

1) transportation: moving the slabs in a regular vehicle is challenging and requires rope to secure the wood members in place. It’s important to tie a red flag or some kind of colorful indicator to the end of the retaining wall piece for the safety of drivers behind you.
2) leveling the retaining wall piece: I used limestone screenings as a base material and found that setting the retaining wall piece level was the most challenging part of the project. It’s useful to have a lengthy bubble level for this work