Can I order a block for a retaining wall directly from a brochure?
Whilst we provide brochures on all of our blocks and pavers at lee Rowan's we recommend you come and look at the block you have chosen on display at one of our garden centres. All colours are indicative only, with some variations in batches but nothing beats seeing the real thing when it comes to such an important investment as your home. You can also discuss your project with a trained member of our staff who is there to make your job easier.
 
I only have a small space and need to retain some of the garden. Is there a retaining block that can be stacked vertically without taking up any horizontal space?
Yes, a Tasman block wall is almost vertical, making it a popular choice for courtyards and smaller gardens. It is a large faced block that takes very little room to build, with all components such as corners and caps to make your job look professional, whilst easy to erect.
 
How far in advance do I need to order my blocks?
Supply times for any landscaping product can vary according to the style and colour you have chosen. Please check with one of our staff members to ascertain their availability.
 
Do I need a concrete footing for my retaining wall?
Not necessarily. In some cases compacted road base is all that is required. It is dependent on the height of the wall as well as the structure of the soil. In a more sandy area concrete may be required to stabilise the wall.
 
What do I need to do for drainage?
Geotextile fabric should be laid first behind the wall once it is constructed. Then backfill 200-300mm with aggregate around agriculture piping. This will provide a drainage core to relieve any water pressure that would otherwise build up after constant precipitation. The finer the aggregate the better drainage. The backfill will need to be compacted to 95%.
 
Why use Geotextile fabric?
We recommend you use this to help prevent stains & seepage through your retaining wall. It also acts as an additional layer to help direct the water to where you want it to go.
 
What is Geogrid and do I need to use it in my retaining wall?
Geogrid is normally only required for high walls for extra strength. It is usually specified by the engineer in the landscape plans if needed. It is laid perpendicular to the wall and pulled tight before cutting. Speak to one of our friendly staff members for advice on this product.
 
What size ag pipe do I need to get?
The size of the pipe is dependent on the height of the wall.
 
How do I do corners?
Corners are built by adhesively fixing the purpose made corner blocks to alternate courses. Allowances should be made for a 10mm stepback per course. Lugs must be removed from the Tasman blocks to ensure the corner blocks fit evenly.
 
Can I do steps with my blocks?
Steps can be easily built using a combination of Tasman blocks and capping units. The risers are built with Tasman blocks. The capping units are then adhered to the top of the blocks to form the treads.
 
Can I do curves with my blocks?
For convex curved walls simply knock the back fin off the block with a hammer. There is a minimum radius to the curve attainable.
 
How do I prepare the ground where I am going to build my retaining wall?
Dig out a trench approximately 250mm deep and about 600mm wide. Place and well compact 150 -200mm of fine crushed rock (gravel). This base thickness depends on the height of the wall e.g. 150mm would be suitable for 1 mt high. Higher walls require thicker bases and are often subject to Engineer's design specifications.
 
Do I need to put a layer of sand before I start my wall?
It is wise to spread 25mm of packing sand over the compacted base before laying the first block. This should be in a straight line and checked with a level.