How to Build a Retaining wall Easy Guide DIY

[@sydsyd]

This is civil engineering, that is what makes this job. Excellent!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@simmtimm]

Best video yet to prepare my project. I’ve never done this before, but here I go!! Thanks O’dell from Central Cali

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

You're welcome from Southern CA

[@babasingh6606]

I built a 35 foot 3-block high wall following these videos. Not as pretty as these guys do it, but it's at the back of the property so O well. Only comment I got from my contractor buddy was that I overbuilt it lol. These guys are legit. And yes, if I had to do it over again, I would have hired someone.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I hear that. TY

[@paulmacneill7358]

Best instructional videos on KZbin! You are a great narrator and teacher. Keep it up.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY We try to be better

[@rapidrestorationsllc2764]

I agree, I watch a lot of tutorials. Dave is by far the best, most articulated narrator ever. Some of these other guys could learn some from him. He explains things very well and I love the time lapse during the videos while he is explaining the processes. He doesnt explain what he is doing. He also explains why he is doing it. Best concrete contractor I have ever seen! Seriously. Can not say enough!

[@mattmoore4661]

I didn’t learn as much as I wanted. But I do like the guy. Thumbs up.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

ty

[@exclusivefrenchies343]

This is extremely what I needed to kn to do my front yard just like this. Absolutely amazing. Thank you.

[@oyeahyeahiyeahyeah9456]

Very good glad we have someone on youtube that does this

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Im glad we have great supporters!

[@oneofgodschildren]

I need help. My property slopes down low in the back and I wanna put a privacy fence up. My neighbors in back are on lower ground so I need to do a runoff for rainwater as well. Should I use cinder blocks? I'm looking at 4 feet high.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Concrete swale

[@19993gt]

Hey Odell! My name is George Trejo! I’ve watched a few hours of your videos. I’m a second generation stucco plaster based out of Southern California! If you need any stucco finish or matching to any old style finish I’m your man! Keep grinding! Love your content!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Good to know TY

[@SteveSabbai]

It is nice to see workers that take pride in their work. Most workers nowadays are crooked and incompetent.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I concur

[@RAJsWork]

Watching you vids are ever so satisfying bc of how you explain it. Thank you! NEVER STOP!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

We'll try. TY

[@curmudgeoniii9762]

Thank you for all your great video's. Can not tell you how informative they are for a home DIYer. One thing I would suggest as a great addition to your work would be to make a couple that gets into detail about the equipment you use and why and the same for the materials you use and why. Concrete blocks .. there are a lot ... why you use and how to use properly, when and why to use rebar and which kind, how deep does the base need to be for a wall like the one you are building on this video ... could go on but I bet you get my point. Again, thanks for you advice.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

The build depends where your located?

[@JohnOsCreations]

When you sight down through the hollows in the blocks should they be in perfect alignment for filling with concrete. Thanks

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

It helps

[@carolynsmith3719]

Thank you!!!! Going try and do my own to help cut costs. This is very helpful.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

GL

[@skitoles]

These videos are so satisfying to watch

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

ty

[@Stevenowski]

Perfect timing for the next project at my house! Thank you for this! Have a blessed day! 🙌

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

YW

[@MrJFoster1984]

I do the same for a wall, pull a line off the house and run parallel back off this for your measurements. I also like the fact you have laid the first course of block into the footing, and then filled the block cores, it ends up being a monolithic construction.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes that's correct. The best way to build. You know the tricks.

[@MrJFoster1984]

@anthony famatigan @anthony famatigan Something that is done in one go, done together, becomes one when it is constructed. Basically the concrete in the blocks/core filled is bonding with the foundations so it is one piece of concrete. You have approx two hours to do this otherwise there is a cold join between the two and they are basically seperate so to speak. 👍

[@Mbehr24]

Do you recommend filling all the cores with concrete?

[@VenturiLife]

So cool, with your experience you're always thinking about things that others would very likely miss...

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

That's the goal. TY

[@jaandel1]

​@@OdellCompleteConcretewhat its the difference to creat a fotting and the built the block wall vs this one pour footting and the same time the block ???

[@arnulfoesparza601]

Love the quality of work.. I give you guys a thumbs up before even watching the video ... Lol

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@grahamgreen8283]

This is the video I neede thank you , the 1st 10 videos were no help thank you

[@lexandersig]

Good job. Hello from Puerto RIco!

[@japan-e9j]

Marvelous work 👍 👍👍💖💖💖 king of concrete no one like you still no.one

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@cruzlifecruz4543]

Hey I have a question not sure how often you all check your KZbin comments, but I’m current doing my first retaining wall and it’s on a slight hill right on the edge of my drive way I’m laying my first layer and it’s always slightly off to the left so I get it even then move on to the next stone and same difference I get that one fixed as well but when I check them both or even three it’s not leveled am I over-thinking because it’s on a slight hill or should I keep adding rock sand etc ?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I'm sure I understand what's going on.

[@cruzlifecruz4543]

Odell Complete Concrete should my level reflect even as if it’s a straight line even though it’s going down hill?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

yes

[@upstatecre8]

Thank you for putting this out there!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

My pleasure!

[@anthonymoy4471]

Was all the Blox put together with the same concrete mixture that was poured for the base ???

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

No we used a mortar

[@anthonymoy4471]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete thanks for the reply what kinda concrete would you suggest premixed? Like 5000 quick Crete? For the base under the cinder block?

[@jwjordan915]

Great video! Love your calm voice. I do have a few questions though, if you would be so kind to answer. No. 1 - If your sealing the back of the block with this membrane how does the built up rain water escape? I noticed you did not place grout between your bottom course of blocks, is this where the rain water escapes? No. 2 - If you have a 42" wall are you required to install a underdrain system and should the holes face downward? No. - 3 I've been told that you should not allow your filter fabric to lay against your block because the fabric will be sealed by the dirt and cause pressure on your wall which is in direct conflict of question No. 1. Please explain, thanks! Oh' one more question, do you have settling problem by laying your base blocks on wet cement? Should you wait for a period of time before you install your next course? I'm concern about the extra weight!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

this job is at the top of hill, drainage is not a problem.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I want the block to settle in to the concrete.

[@jwjordan915]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete I understand that, I was concern about uneven settling of the blocks prior to curing, especially the added weight of the top course. I like your method of not placing grout between your base blocks, hopefully their is enough rock to prevent dirt from leaking through.

[@bigkid757]

I like how you’ve incorporated the weep holes in the first course by not grouting gaps.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

ty

[@belleamie4628]

I'm glad you mentioned that. I was wondering why they didn't put grout in between those blocks.

[@Allgood73]

I was wondering if I was seeing that correctly (instead of using PVC), but it wasn’t explicitly called out in video.... so I looked down here in comments for it. Thanks for confirming... I like the idea as well!

[@Allgood73]

The more I think of it though, how do you keep your uniform staggering overlay on the second row?

[@Allgood73]

The more I think of it though, how do you keep your uniform staggering overlay on the second row?

[@stevencevallos3488]

Hey Odell, what do you do for draining? If the wall is going to be in the property line is installing drainage recommeded?? Any help is appreciated.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Drains to street

[@samdenberg]

How deep should I dig if I want my retaining wall to hold back about 5'-7' feet of full dirt? I'm trying to make a level slab on a hillside property. Wall will be about 30' feet long. Property is in Mexico, no codes to worry about. But I want it to last.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

2.5 x 3' should do the trick

[@VoicesofMusic]

When building an ADU, does one build the slab or the retaining wall first?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I would go with the retaining first if it doesn't effect access

[@isaactaylor1833]

@Roberto Cartwrighto accessory dwelling unit. Pretty much a detached living area like a guest house.

[@mannys3678]

Retaining wall

[@pi3441]

Very useful video. Thank you very much

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

YW

[@Gigagasps]

Hi looking to replace a leaning retaining wall jn my back yard in so-cal. How much would a retaining wall like this cost (dimensions about 12 ft long by 5 feets high)? Thank you

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

4500

[@dannyg.781]

Another good video. Can't wait to see part 2!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@robertcasey7312]

Thank you so much. I have a very small project, I’m going to use your videos as a guide. Love it.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Right on GL

[@luminiveritatis1413]

Looking to use cinder block for a small porch add on and I’ll be adding a pad on top of a 20” high block wall. I live in NW Florida panhandle. He get a lot of rain here. I’ve got gutters, but do I need to concern myself with weep holes at all?

[@jason-ge5nr]

Thats going to make for a really nice back yard.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I think so, a nice addition

[@tracyalfaro5038]

Odell you're a BOOT you may fool nonBricklayer but those of us who know Masonry can see all of your mistakes for one your stabbing the rebar after you lay your block that's a no no. Odell you're a BOOT you shouldn't be doing any kind of masonry. That wall is going to last 1 yr then it's going to crack. Guaranteed.

[@cj8942]

I want to build a cinder block retaining wall for a sandpit that'll have a gazebo tent on it. It'll only be 1 block or 2 blocks high with stone veneer to decorate the wall and top stones to seal it. Good or bad idea?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Should be nice

[@cj8942]

Odell Complete Concrete Thank you for responding! I'm watching your video again for tips, then I'm going to write out my plan and start digging.

[@alvaroramirez6581]

Do you have to wait until the first column drys into the cement before continuing with the next column?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

No

[@lucasignorello6116]

Love your channel brother you tell it how it's done the right way a week ago I sent one of your videos to a friend of mine his in local 183 here in Toronto Canada so he showed one of his coworkers he snaps and my friend saying why are his showing people this haters love it keep it coming bro

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Thanks luca! We appreciate it! and thanks for sharing the vids!

[@wummerG]

This is almost identical to what we need. Wish you were in town over here in Melbourne, Australia

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Me too

[@jesseblank7695]

I know you work with concrete a lot but would a wall with a set back be better for retaining 3ft or could 8x8x16 mason block with footer work too?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

yes that sounds good

[@DiQu40]

If I’m using cinder blocks for my porch do I need horizontal rebar for the foundation or do I just place the cinder block on the tampered dirt

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Foundation is needed

[@alexwhyte78]

When do you add mortar between the bricks on the first course? Looks like they don’t have any between them

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

When you stucco

[@27Corner]

Hi, I'm about to build a house retaining wall and it will stand as the house foundation on a bedrock,can I use silicon or even cement for holding down the rebars drilled into the bedrock before concrete footing? Thanks

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I like epoxy

[@mickeencrua]

I need help here please. Is rebar absolutely necessary for a wall that's only three blocks high?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Prolongs the longevity

[@mickeencrua]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete That doesn't make any sense at all unless the wall is being constantly put under pressure.

[@ibxlegendx]

Great videos! Honestly your videos are a big reason why I know how to do slabs and retaining walls. You should do one on doing a cement block house and how to do the corners and tying the walls in with the rebar. How deep did the first row of block go into the cement and whats the best way to make sure the first row is nice and level longways and side to side?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Great idea. TY

[@19993gt]

Nice! I’ve learned a lot about concrete from Odell too! It’s nice to see a proud and integrity driven contractor

[@michaeldorgan5189]

Beautiful! 👍

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Ty

[@ashleyvlack]

What brand/name/type of self adhensive tape (rubber on 1 side, vinyl on other) are you using?? Trying to order and not sure how to find it.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Bituthene

[@monikamichalski2776]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete do you prefer this or the liquid roll/brush on stuff and also what was this liquid stuff you used in your other video (on the backs of the blocks)? TIA

[@willb.9225]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete brand or link to actual product

[@rietoh]

Hope to see a follow up video of the completed job!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

You will we plan on getting it out tomorrow or the next day!

[@imperialjake114]

Sir when you laid your first row of block, did you put mud between them or leave a space for the water to weep out. I noticed on. Second row is when you started to put mud between the blocks. I’m doing a 14 foot long 4 block high retaining wall in my back yard tomorrow. December 2020

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

The bottom block was left open

[@imperialjake114]

Thank you! And that’s to weep for water correct

[@imperialjake114]

And was it a measured space or eyeballed?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

@@imperialjake114 eye balled

[@imperialjake114]

I’ll send you a Pic when done and Critique, unless your in SOCAL and want to come do a video on, real life dudes building a wall off my video, here’s what there doing wrong and right!!

[@tildarosander1339]

I’m confused. A common occurrence when I’m trying to figure out how to build stuff in my garden. He says that he will solid grout the blocks. I understand that to fill up the holes in the locks so that water doesn’t freeze in there and break the block. But, at 10:18 it looks like they aren’t doing that. Does solid grout mean something else that I don’t get?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

It happened with the patio pour

[@donnyh3497]

Do I have to tamp down the ground in the bottom of the ditch if my soil is really loose and sandy?

[@antgreen3254]

your videos have helped me a lot. how deep was the footing for the retaining wall?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

15"

[@bradisscrat6037]

Q: Around 9:20 you talk about the self-adhesive waterproofing roll...is there a particular brand you recommend? Great video as usual!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Not really there are so many

[@bradisscrat6037]

Ok. Just afraid the typically-less-than-proficient box store staff will have no clue what I'm talking about.

[@andre_costello]

Yeah! Lowes and Home depot are no help. Where I live, I don't have any other options and might have to order online. When I search, the only stuff that comes up is at least $250 a roll my new wall is only 14 feet long :-/

[@bradisscrat6037]

I decided on using Drylok masonry sealer from Lowes. I applied it last week...and it definitely seems to "seal" in the porous concrete block effectively.

[@craigspencer2927]

Great video, very informative

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@juansok]

Question - in your base row (first row of blocks) is there a small space between each block? if yes, what is the purpose? for water draining?

[@workinonitsteve]

Nice work 👍

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@bjj4u2]

Question for you sir? Will that patio area need base rock? If not, What determines if you need baserock under the concrete? Thanks again, great videos.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Whether or not you're in a freezing climate or not

[@tylerbrandt6219]

Why is there horizontal rebar before you lay cement on the retaining portion? Does it just add extra strength to the concrete?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

For sure

[@tylerbrandt6219]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete thanks, im hoping to build a retaining wall in my yard this week. Im nervous as hell but your videos have provided a lot of very useful information. Thank you

[@tylerbrandt6219]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete you didn't mention it in the video but ive seen it in others so im curios. Is it necessary to put a drainage pipe behind the wall? I live in Ca and will be putting in a wall very similar to this. Also can I back fill with the dirt ive removed or do i have to use a more fine material?

[@arthursmendoza3162]

Gd job señor...👌👍👍👍

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@fernandomingo2398]

Hi Odell. The first course is placed on the concrete foundation while this is still moist? Thanks!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes

[@bettyescookingchannel]

Thanks for sharing building a retaining wall.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

YW

[@jamesd5941]

should I put gravel underneath a retaining wall footing if we have freezing temperature during the winter, or would it be more of a water trap? thanks

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Gravel with good drainage works. Because when it raining it not freezing

[@coolmaster121]

It's possible to pour the wall foundation in stages of like 8 feet? I'm trying to replace an old block wall that was terribly put in and is falling apart. Plus on top of the wall there is a fence to my yard that's facing the street. I was thinking of putting in the steel bars and then do pours in sections to maintain privacy of the old fence.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

The footing should have continuous steel, I guess you can dowel everything together

[@coolmaster121]

Odell Complete Concrete Thank you for the reply. I am really enjoying your videos and work.

[@erichondel6221]

Can you pour a slab right up against the block, or do you leave a gap for expansion?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Should be fine either way you go

[@bhadz100]

Odell, what kind of wall can I build on my front yard to minimize tire sound coming from the road?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Block or concrete

[@bhadz100]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete would it need to be high? Ideally yes but what’s the minimum height would you recommend

[@Bryan-sj8ys]

Do you use the same mortar for the foundation of the footer that you also use between blocks? Or is the footer Portland? Thanks.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

The footer has common. The mortar has plastic

[@dchambers25]

I'm building a small block retaining wall now that I want to install a veneer stone on to match an existing BBQ structure. The old wall failed and was made out of pressure treated lumber. I'm digging the new wall footing now. The wall only needs to be 14" above grade so it's not that tall. I'm digging the footing 12" deep by 12" wide. Will that be sufficient?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

plenty good

[@mo_sabi]

should one not wait for the baseconcrete layer to dry? the concrete still looks wet when the blocks are placed?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

They stick better when its wet

[@joryjorjansencausehewasone9274]

#1 COMMENT LOVE ODELL THESE GUYS ARE WORLD CLASS!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@emanuelawk]

How do you determine base depth, wall thickness and how much rebar to use?

[@leonleon2239]

Just want to say great job on all your videos n great discretion on how to..much kodoos to n your crew n b safe👍👍👍👍 view from phx az

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Thanks, you too!

[@abdullahabunaiyan5220]

You are amazing person with unique talents.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@cartermyers4850]

I am building a similar retaining wall what is the waterproof sealer you were talking about. I was going to use the Henry’s tar but from what you have said it doesn’t last forever and I would like to use something that last forever. Thanks in advanced!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Bituthene 3000 Flexible Waterproof Membrane

[@joaquinlopez997]

what is your opinion on using asphalt primer or hot mop tar to water proof it ? when you said tar last 15 years i am assuming you are talking about henrys mastic tar,

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

joaquin lopez Yes I am. I think any tar will degrade on exterior with dirt and water against it. I like the two part component rubber with vinyl on dirt side.

[@joaquinlopez997]

like the peel n stick that people use on the roofs ?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Bituthene by Grace

[@JOSE2436]

Hey Odell, can you help me find out how much Portland or quickcrete I need for a 52 linear feet retaining wall footing is 12x12

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

60

[@um236]

Do u fill blocks with concrete or mortar?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Concrete

[@um236]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete thanks. One more question. If I'm building small retaining wall up against existing concrete floor, how deep should I dig to set first blocks if my wall will be knee high.

[@kbob8424]

So is there minimal settling that takes place? I see that the block goes on over wet cement. I thought you needed at least a day for the footing to set up?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Sticks better when wet

[@petertucker5610]

Great video. Is there a reason that you didn't seem to grout between the blocks on the first course? Or did I miss that?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes the entire block will get water proofed and faced with tile.

[@lvhatrick]

Drainage

[@carlose.rios-collazothmphd6606]

Excellent channel!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY

[@jackassman6726]

Very Impressive ,,, You Guys do Great Work...!!!!!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

TY!

[@thefinancedr7162]

I saw in some other videos it isn’t a good idea to use a waterproof layer behind the blocks. Why do you use one? What are your thoughts on that? I have a full basement and a slab next to it that needs a retaining wall. I don’t know how deep to dig for the wall or if I should waterproof.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Depends on how you build the wall.

[@914231luis]

Do you add any drainage system behind the wall?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

No

[@jeromekeehn1128]

Was mortar ever applied in between the first row of cinder blocks? If so, when in the process?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes when we poured the slab

[@brikkijim]

Should the rebar be placed in the middle of concrete or it doesn't matter?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Lower is better

[@OnikaTMZ]

Have you done service in the imperial valley close to the Coachella valley?? Cause I’m looking to get a patio done for my dogs cause I can’t let my dogs in the back with my moms, they don’t get along & your videos are amazing I’d love to get my patio done by you guys (:

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I wish I did

[@OnikaTMZ]

Odell Complete Concrete aw good work though

[@AA-cc4gs]

What is the frost line there? The footing isn't too shallow?

[@saifsalomy7507]

Do you need rebar in foundation?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes

[@WILSONJ-tn9om]

Can u do one or explain on concrete footing with rebar & putting 2 layers of center blocks for an addition to a house. Thx.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Yes good idea

[@georgian929]

Will the tree roots damage the foundation of the wall if they are close? once the tree grows

[@pinkyup6]

Thank you David for your video!! This is exactly the work I’m doing. How do I find the waterproofing material you mentioned for the back wall?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Henrys 207 or maybe its 107

[@pinkyup6]

You mentioned an easy peel with rubber and vinyl that could last a lifetime. I tried looking but could only find something similar for laying the floors. Is it what you are referring to? @ 09:30

[@whitegorillaYT]

Love your videos. I get a lot of good information from you that I can use in my business. Thanks.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Great

[@mnqobidlamini8631]

Craig Mac

[@angelgama1981]

im a big fan of your work question what kind of concrete bags can i use from home depot for a footing and another question what kind of bags do you use for the cinder block?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Quickcrete

[@aissata9465]

Hi. If a brick house is 43 years old what do you recommend. It's need rebuild or renovation?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Probably need to clean up the joints.

[@alexmarz239]

What’s the difference in using concrete for you bed instead of compacted gravel?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

Gravel drains better. Crushed concrete compacts better.

[@rapidrestorationsllc2764]

I went to order a shirt of yours and they not available in 3xl! Show big guys some love! I will order a couple of them!

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

I believe I have some in there

[@hitmangui2]

@@OdellCompleteConcrete labor only? Or with material as well?

[@babasingh6606]

How much time do you have to do that wet set before the quikrete sets up too much?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

two hours

[@ericchapman4300]

Hello David I was wondering if you can tell me the name and company that makes the peel and stick vinyl/rubber you talk about in the video? Thanks in advance.

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

bituthene

[@pedrohinojosa3206]

In the DC area we know it as blue skin

[@raptor7547]

what kind of concrete did you use for foundation?

[@chupapi1283]

Great video,I want a retaining wall and a fire pit on my backyard,how much did this project cost?

[@OdellCompleteConcrete]

4500