Anyone know of a construction detail or reference I can use to build an 18-inch high retaining wall using the larger round river rock? That type of construction was very popular in southern California when more rock came out of the excavation than the original owners knew what to do with. It's the large (4" to 8" dia) conglomerate rock that's was used for patio columns and garden beds. I'm coming up short in my search.

Sunset Basic Masonry Illustrated that is available at the larger home improvement stores has details working with stones both dry and cemented.

Mick, there is an absolutely beautiful new river rock wall (with great flower and wave patterns) that just went up across the street (West) from Grant's Marketplace on the Southwest corner of Beech and Dale in South Park just across the bridge from you. It seems like they are still doing renovation work on the property and may be able to provide you with some info or assistance. If not, its worth it just to see how a real craftsman wall that like can look.

Cheers

Tad

Hi Mick, I have done free stone walls. Make sure that you place plenty of rebar 5/8" in the footing. Use speck mix type s and filter fabric barier against the siol you want to retain.Stone is placed staggered flat face out and then some in a stacked fashon for ty-in. The taller the soil the thicker the wall. 12 to 16 is a pretty safe bet.Verticle rebar out of footing every 3 to 6 feet (depending again on height of embankment. Horizontal rebar every 3 '. Good luck

Let me give you a piece of advice; you can call it a kind of a 'stand by' advice.
plan well before starting construction; All you need to do is:
1. Inspect the site
2. Jot down the soil conditions
3. Check out the water drainage patterns
4. Have a look on final grading.
These are really vital elements to consider; when it comes to design of the wall system.
If possible make a drawing or sketch. Take 'before' photos of your yard...take them from multiple angles..
Don't take this advice lightly..it is like a working paper..
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