Capping and Step-Downs
At 29:49 in
Retaining Wall Skills: Beginner to Advanced
What happens here
This section details the capping process for retaining walls and creating step-downs. Caps are installed flush with the wall, or can be set back. The video highlights using A and B caps (varying in back dimensions) to alternate and achieve a tight seam at the top of the wall. For step-downs, two methods are presented: 1. **The 'Cheater' Method**: This involves simply stacking caps in a staircase pattern, but it's not ideal as it can create tripping hazards and lacks structural stability. 2. **The Recommended Method**: This involves integrating the step-down into the wall's structure, ensuring the caps are level and have a consistent reveal. The inside of the step-down section should be filled with gravel to connect the blocks securely, preventing the caps from shifting or becoming a tripping hazard.
Goal: Properly cap retaining walls and create secure, visually appealing step-downs.
Tools and materials
- A and B Caps Versa-Lok — Capping the top of the wall
- Construction Adhesive — Securing caps to the wall
- Gravel — Filling inside step-downs for stability
- Hammer — Tapping caps into place