Segment: Austral Heron Retaining Wall
Episode: Spring 2019, Ep11
Presenter: Nigel Ruck
TX Date: 23rd November 2019

The way we design our properties to maximise space and usable areas often involves cutting and filling type earthworks to create level terraces, which often require retaining walls to keep the land in place.

• There are plenty of options for retaining walls, but the basics are quite similar – footing for masonry, posts in the case of timber, walling material and drainage.
• One of the easiest walling systems is Austral’s Heron retaining wall system. These walls are versatile, with straight and curved walls easily achieved.
• The top of your footing should be 100mm below finished ground level, so that the first course of blocks are embedded in the ground, giving extra strength and preventing footing erosion.
• Take your time with the first course – setting up some string lines will help, with the front line being a general guide. Work to the back line, as the back of the block is a perfectly straight edge.
• Stack the other blocks on top – clean away debris first. If you have a curved section, simply knock the back wings off the blocks to allow for the slight angle.
• The capping pieces finish the wall and are easy to lay – just be sure to keep them straight.
• You can fix the capping down with an adhesive, but it’s not always necessary.
• Install a drainage system at the back, unless you’re in Perth, where you can backfill with sandy soil.

https://australmasonry.com.au/