Capstone, Final Backfill, and Fabric Fold-Over
At 8:36 in
Retaining Wall Installation
What happens here
The retaining wall is built up course by course, with drainage stone backfill and geogrid reinforcement implemented at appropriate intervals as the wall rises. Once the desired height is reached, a capstone (or coping unit) is installed on the very top to provide a finished look and protect the uppermost blocks. Before adding the final topsoil and landscaping material, the geotextile fabric that was initially laid along the excavated slope is folded over the top of the drainage stone backfill. This 'fold-over' is crucial to prevent the topsoil from mixing with the drainage stone, maintaining the integrity of the drainage system and preventing erosion.
Goal: Complete the wall structure, ensure proper top-layer drainage, and prepare for landscaping.
Tools and materials
- Capstone — Finishing the top of the retaining wall and providing protection
- Geotextile Fabric — Folding over the drainage stone to separate it from topsoil
- Drainage Stone N/A — Continuing backfill behind successive wall courses
- Grass Seed or Sod N/A — Finishing the top surface of the retained area
- Topsoil N/A — Providing a base for grass or landscaping on top of the wall