Final Backfill and Landscape Integration
At 2:03 in
How to build a retaining wall. #hardscape #retainingwall
What happens here
Once the retaining wall reaches the desired height, the final layers of drainage stone are placed and compacted behind the uppermost courses. The remaining geotextile fabric is then folded over the top of the drainage stone and brought up behind the last course of blocks, completely encapsulating the entire drainage layer. This final wrap ensures absolute separation of the drainage stone from any overlying topsoil or landscaping material, maintaining the long-term effectiveness of the drainage system by preventing fine soil particles from clogging it. The video implies that a single drain pipe at the lowest course is sufficient, as the continuous column of "clean drained stone" behind the wall effectively funnels all collected water down to the main drain. The upper level can then be graded and prepared for the planned landscaping, swimming pool, or patio installation, while the lower level can be restored with topsoil and lawn.
Goal: Complete the wall structure and integrate it with the surrounding landscape
Tools and materials
- Mechanical compactor — Final compaction of backfill layers, Shovel Unknown
- Drainage stone — Completing the drainage layer behind the wall, Geotextile filter fabric Unknown