Size the trench so there's enough room for the retaining wall block and at least 8 in. of space behind it. Excavate deep enough to completely bury at least one full course, including space for 6 ...

Q: I want to build a retaining wall that’s going to look great for years. At my last house, a short retaining wall I had around a patio started to lean out toward the lawn. The wall was but 10 ...

Are retaining wall blocks a... Photo by Tim CarterThis retaining wall was built with lots of care and skill. It is still perfect after 20 years of harsh weather.

Gregg and Kenda Ottinger of Shawnee, Kan., threw out the railroad ties that lined their 60-foot-long driveway and replaced them with a concrete-block wall two years ago.