How to Build a Retaining Wall (step-by-step)

Building a retaining wall doesn't have to be intimidating. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to build a stable, long-lasting retaining wall using professional techniques—perfect for DIY homeowners and contractors alike.

In this video, we'll walk you through the complete process of building a retaining wall using our Murata Wall blocks. From excavation and base preparation to installing geogrid and finishing with cap stones, you'll see every critical step demonstrated in real time. Whether you're tackling your first retaining wall project or looking to refine your installation technique, this guide covers the essential methods that ensure structural integrity and lasting beauty.

You'll learn how to:

- Properly excavate and prepare your base with the right gravel depth
- Install filter fabric and drainage systems to prevent settling
- Level and place wall blocks with precision using both Murata Standard and Variable blocks
- Integrate geogrid reinforcement for walls that stand the test of time
- Finish your wall with professional cap stones and backfill

This tutorial includes pro tips on compaction techniques, setback alignment, and common mistakes to avoid—knowledge that makes the difference between a wall that lasts decades and one that fails prematurely.

Ready to start your retaining wall project? Visit westerninterlock.com to explore our complete line of retaining wall blocks, or subscribe for more professional hardscape installation guides.

Read the entire step-by-step tutorial on How to Build a Retaining Wall: westerninterlock.com/how-to-build-a-retaining-w…

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0:00 Intro
0:19 Excavate
0:49 Lay a gravel base
1:09 Compact the gravel
1:29 Pin up filter fabric
2:05 Install perforated pipe
2:28 First course of block
3:36 Compact the first course
3:59 Place geogrid
4:46 Stack, compact, and grid
5:04 Cap the retaining wall
5:25 Outro

… … … … …

Materials Used:

Wall Block: Murata Wall™
westerninterlock.com/product_type/murata/

Cap Stone: Murate Cappello™
westerninterlock.com/product_type/murata-cappel…

Gravel: 3/4-0 DOT SPEC

Locking Grid: Strati-Grid SG 350

Filter Fabric: Geotextile Filter Fabric Terra Tex NO6



Tools and equipment used:

Bon Tools Screed boards:amazon.com/dp/B0006MWKY6/ref

Screed Rails: amazon.com/dp/B003TPMSDK/ref

Kum Along/Muck Rake:amazon.com/dp/B0011MQ4VK/ref

Trowel:amazon.com/dp/B00002N5OV/ref

Spade Shovel:amazon.com/dp/B000KL6SV4/ref

Flat Shovel:amazon.com/dp/B000LF91B8/ref

Pick Axe:amazon.com/dp/B000KL4UJQ/ref

Hand Tamper:amazon.com/dp/B0009XEN60/ref

Pipe for Curves:amazon.com/dp/B07N8K5KNH/ref

String line:amazon.com/dp/B000A24DGK/ref

String line level:amazon.com/dp/B00002N5NZ/ref

2ft Level:amazon.com/dp/B01980DCP2/ref

4ft Level:amazon.com/dp/B01980DA0E/ref

6ft Level:amazon.com/dp/B01980DASG/ref

Tape Measure:amazon.com/dp/B003NE5WKS/ref

Snap Edge Cutters:amazon.com/dp/B007KHDSVY/ref

Garden Hose:amazon.com/dp/B000KL12RE/ref

Paver Mallet:pavetech.com/pavermallet

Paver adjuster:pavetech.com/paveradjuster

Paver Puller:pavetech.com/paverextractor

Broom:amazon.com/dp/B07XTZ2VQD/ref

Sprayer:amazon.com/dp/B006Y85LK6/ref

Plate Compactor:amazon.com/dp/B00Z9HNFKG/ref

Concrete Demo Saw:amazon.com/dp/B07DJTQ6GM/ref

Table Saw:iqpowertools.com/iqms362-dustless-masonry-saw-2/

Generator:amazon.com/dp/B07PWB8WD3/ref