If you’re thinking about giving your own retaining wall project a crack, National Masonry blocks make the job a whole lot easier.
They’re durable, easy to handle and ideal for homeowners chasing long-lasting results without turning the weekend into a full-blown saga.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to building a retaining wall with National Masonry blocks and giving your outdoor space a proper upgrade.
Before you start digging up the backyard like a dog chasing buried treasure, it’s worth taking a little time to choose the right wall system.
The best option will depend on your site conditions, your preferences and how high you want the wall to go.
If you want to save time and avoid unnecessary headaches, choose a DIY-friendly wall system like Linearwall™ by National Masonry. It’s ideal for small to medium garden walls and comes with pre-cut corner pieces and a smooth top edge, so there’s no need for separate capping.
For outdoor living areas, low retaining walls are a smart way to frame the space. They look great around paved areas and can even pull double duty as extra seating.
There are a few key things to think about before you get stuck in.
Wall height matters because it affects the type of blocks you’ll need and whether engineering is required. Some systems, like Keystone™ by National Masonry, can reach heights of up to 12 metres when properly engineered.
Shape and colour also play a big part in the overall look of your wall. Think about whether you want clean straight lines or softer curves and corners, then choose tones that suit your home and garden.
You’ll also need to decide whether you’re doing it yourself or bringing in a professional. Many wall systems are designed with DIY projects in mind, but larger or more complex walls can be a different kettle of fish.
In those cases, hiring a contractor can save a lot of time, effort and muttering under your breath. Keep in mind that most councils require retaining walls over 1 meter high to be engineered and approved. Always check your local regulations before getting started.
Start by marking out where the wall will go using stakes and a string line, or spray paint to outline the area. Then, excavate a trench along the marked line and compact a layer of road base to create a solid foundation.
This part might not be the glamorous bit, but it’s the difference between a wall that lasts and one that starts having ideas of its own. A strong and level base sets up your first course of blocks properly and makes the whole job easier from there.
Carefully place your first row of blocks on the prepared base. Use a string line to keep everything straight and check each block with a spirit level from side to side and front to back.
This first layer is the big one. Nail this part, and the rest of the wall will be much easier to build and far better looking by the time you’re done.
Good drainage is absolutely essential if you want your retaining wall to stay solid over time.
Start by placing a 150mm agricultural drain behind the first course of blocks, then surround it with 12–20mm gravel such as blue metal. As you build, backfill behind the gravel with your existing soil and compact it layer by layer.
Avoid heavy clay or organic soils, as they tend to hold water and can build up pressure behind the wall. Water has a habit of causing trouble when it’s got nowhere to go.
Before laying the next row, sweep off any dirt or debris from the top of the blocks. Lay the next course in a staggered running bond pattern so the joints do not line up with the row below. Pull each block forward until it locks into the nib of the block beneath it. Keep adding drainage gravel and compacted soil as you go until you reach the height you’re after.
To finish the wall, you can add National Masonry capping units for a clean, polished look and secure them with construction adhesive. Take note that some blocks may need the nibs removed before gluing the caps on. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference to the final finish.
Once complete, step back and check that everything is level and properly compacted.
If your wall is taller than 1 meter or close to any structures, have it checked by a qualified engineer. That way, you can make sure it meets local council standards and avoid any nasty surprises later on.
Then comes the satisfying part, when the whole project starts to look properly finished. Add the finishing touches, whether that’s mulching garden beds, laying pavers or dressing the space up with stones and pebbles.
A well-built National Masonry wall keeps soil where it belongs while giving your landscape a neat and polished edge.
Building a retaining wall is one of the most rewarding garden projects you can take on. It makes your outdoor space both functional and easy on the eyes, all in one go.
National Masonry’s wall systems make it easier to achieve a professional finish that stands the test of time. That comes down to high-quality materials, straightforward installation and a result that looks good long after the tools are packed away.
Ready to get your project moving? Explore the full range of National Masonry blocks and landscaping materials at Australian Landscape Supplies.
With the right materials and expert advice, you’ll be well on your way to building a retaining wall that stays strong for years to come.
Browse our products or get in touch with us today!
Brisbane and SEQ winters are mild enough to enjoy your backyard year-round, if the space is designed properly. Here’s how to create a warmer, more inviting outdoor area with clever paving, shelter, lighting, plants and a simple weekend project to get started.
Planning a pool? Here’s what really shapes the cost of a Plungie Pool project, including the shell, site access, excavation, surrounds, fencing and landscaping.
If you’re tired of rebuilding timber beds every few years, Straightcurve offers a smarter long-term solution. Built for harsh Australian conditions, these steel raised garden beds are durable, low-maintenance and simple to install, making them ideal for both new and experienced gardeners.
