Understanding Proper Dry Laid Stone Techniques - Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site PA - HPTC

[@kayaker9912]

Great video! I am a 59 yr old mom, I have done 3 dry stacked stone walls (coastal Maine), one is a 3' retaining wall for a patio. I am currently working on a 48' long , 14" high dry stack "rattle blue" (which is a narrow rock) retaining wall, on a slope, I have spine and nerve issues, so slow going, but love to build these even with the pain. When most women get perfume or candy for special events, I ask for rocks. Anyway, I put my rocks into size and "purpose" piles, like the top piece, chiggers etc so it was good to see your organized piles. First wall I did was the 3' high, 28' long "Rattle blue" wall just before winter, with so much snow, that I had to unearth snow weekly from my 5 tarps, so it felt like I was working in trenches until spring, not easy, but satisfying. Thank you for the great refresher coarse video. Sorry for rambling on.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you you sound alot like my Waller freind Kim Coggin, 2 knee replacements, hip issues, arms... she just keeps on walling. Slow and easy. All about making good choices not always about how fast you can stack stone. Very therapeutic that's for sure. What's a chigger? Keep on Rockin!

[@vladimirvladimirovich8081]

С уважением из Сибири , Владимир ! Nizhnevartovsk .

[@JohnVance]

This is one of the best dry stone wall videos I've seen on KZbin so far. Thanks for the great info!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you John

[@TheBigfoot567]

Excellent video, with architectural drawings. I looked at many stone wall videos today. This one is by far the best.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Bill, Thank you - I'm also amazed what is on the internet sometimes. Everyone can do it and be an expert. I'm only sharing what I've learned from others in my Profession. Plus I've spent years Training and becoming Certified. I'm currently only 1 of 11 in the US at Advanced level. I'm always upset when I reach out to other companies (landscape-masons) in my area willing to help for free - only to be rejected. One guy I called after seeing his wall he just built for a client - Told me I sounded too young to be able to teach him anything. Heck we can learn from any age children can teach something new everyday if we listen. Just have to listen. Here's the blog I wrote about it. www.rockinwalls.com/2016/02/professional-trade-ignorance-timer.html Life's too short why not help others - we are all in this together.

[@danielsterling4918]

@@RockinWalls Hello sir, thank you for the very informative video! I'm a 23 y.o. finish carpenter and glazier from Florida, and I've been getting into older techniques such as wattle and daub, rubble masonry, and ashlar masonry since I've been wanting to buy raw land and build a homestead for some time. Having researched log cabins and stone construction, I decided to go with stone masonry of some sort (I would love to make a full ashlar stone building but I've a long way to go for that lol), but obviously need practice, though my brother was a block mason for some years and taught me a good bit of tricks in that trade and a few others. I was wondering if you travel around the US, or if only in your specific state? If so, I'd love to learn from you and your guys as much as I could, or even lend a hand on some projects if you were willing. Thank you for your time and wisdom. Respectfully, Daniel H.

[@kalentriesch5601]

An amazing combination of old world artists and current safety and technology standards. Great paced video - I will watch over and over before I build my dry stacked wall. Thank you!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Kalen yes it is packed with a lot of great terminology along with visual posters from DSWA GB Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain. No reason to reinvent the wheel when these same methods have been used for over 5000-7000 years.

[@vladimirvladimirovich8081]

Мне скоро исполнится 73 года ! Но я до сих пор мечтаю сложить стену из сухой каменной кладки . Проблема в том, что ближайший от моего города каменный карьер находится на расстоянии более 1500 км . Надеюсь поменять место жительства и осуществить свою мечту . У меня есть хорошие зубила , закольник , клинья с лепестками и другой электроинструмент с которым я научился раскалывать и обрабатывать камни из гранита . Благодаря вашему и другим роликам я уже очень хорошо себе представляю весь процесс строительства . Спасибо вам за мастер-классы . Из Сибири с уважением, Владимир. Мой город Nizhnevartovsk .

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you. I love splitting granite stones. Never to old to work with stone. Every day it teaches me life lessons. We could all learn a thing or two from stone if everyone listened. 😊

[@danmcelroy6584]

One of if not the best video I have seen on building a dry stack wall! Wish I would have gotten into stone work like it when I was younger. I’m 50 but I’d still love to give it a shot! Never hurts to learn something new.✌️

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Dan, I too started late into the Dry Stone work. Most of the folks men and women are typically 45-65 who come to take workshops. I'm 55 this year and I have to say it has really keeps me in good shape. It's not about picking up the heaviest stone or how many. Manly just about making good choices. Slow and easy wins the race everything. You should give it a try! I'm planning to do a lot more videos starting from the bottom up. Mainly for those that can't make it to a workshop. I hold workshops every spring and fall here in Maryland. There are also training sites in TN, VT, KY. Ofcourse all east coast. Thank you for your comment. Mark

[@danmcelroy6584]

@@RockinWalls your welcome. I probably couldn’t afford taking classes but if I can get my hands on a few tools I could practice places I go camping and build some cool things at camping spots and just hope the Forrest rangers didn’t destroy them or remove them.

[@RockinWalls]

Best tools are your hands, eyes and brain. All about making good choices. No tools can come close! You like camping? Check out our other channel! Lots of fun stuff and rig tours. Consider subscribing. Thank you kzbin.info

[@delta7155]

Voted; good video. In parts of Scotland, in the nineteenth and early twentieth century, it was the landowners who determined the rates for the drystone wallers. If they paid a good rate they would get a wall that would last for a hundred years or more but, if it was a poor rate, they'd get a structure that might just last ten years or so!

[@Maintenance63]

Outstanding video! Explaining the proper placement of the stones, along with visual aids is HUGE!!! Like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. Thank you !!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Richard glad you enjoyed the content.

[@williemills2657]

keeping tradition alive 👍 dry stacked stone walls have been standing in Europe for hundreds of years

[@RockinWalls]

I second that!

[@johnclark1925]

This design is the traditional British dry stone walling found in Northern Britain. 1:8 batter, 2,3,1 base, height, top with knee height tie. Great to see a professional job. Saved, liked and sub’d.

[@RockinWalls]

Yes so true. 1:8 or 1:6 on average batter. Or some kind of batter. 18" ie as you said knee height for tie stones. Always suggest on walls higher then 30" when and if you have the stones to do so. Also in accordance to the historical pattern. These walls didn't have them. So sadly they could not be installed. Just had to be sure to cover all the rules.

[@OneMeanArtist]

Excellent clear explanation, esp. that intro. w/ visuals. Great video overall, as well. Thank you.

[@RockinWalls]

Much appreciated for all the kind words!

[@SebastianHilbert]

Awesome video, feeling confident know to build a wall that lasts. Thank you so much. Legend!

[@hugorobinson277]

Your very clear explanations just convinced me to start that retaining wall I've been speaking about to my wife for years, to level my uneven backyard and make full use of it. I've always thought about a concrete structure, but stones are way cheaper and last longer in time if well placed, from what I uderstand from all those vids I've been looking at. Presently forced to work from home with COVID measures, to go out there in nature with my hammer, selecting, lifting and shaping my stones... I tell you, it's a real therapy! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience! Built two brick columns for my front yard gate last year, following advices of Stu Crompton on YT, and since then, got a lot of respect for masons... Craft principles may be simple, but putting all that time, precision and energy building sharp-looking structures is quite hard on the body, you guys are real beasts! Thanks again!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Hugo. So happy you found the content to be inspiring. I have a great deal of pro content on YT channel. I've been thinking about doing a full series from the start. There is so much information. Not to mention just how much bad information people share on YT as experts. I'm no expert but I'm learning from others which are masters. Not to mention stone is my best teacher. You will learn more life lessons then you could ever imaging working with stone. So get out and have some fun! Build that retaining wall. If you don't like it you can do it all again. Lessons 1 if your gut tells you something is wrong. Listen and do what needs to be done to make it go way. Lesson 2 listen to the stone. You can never make a stone do what it doesn't want to do. Enjoy! Thank you for the kind comment! Means a lot to me. This is why I do what I do. I like to help others find the same joy I find with stone. Mark

[@hugorobinson277]

@@RockinWalls Hey there! My project is going well and I've quoted your "stone is a teacher" to many persons, because I've discovered it is sooo true! And that's a teacher speaking here ;) I teach industrial electronics btw... And also worked in concrete quality control. But yeah, stone discipline is a lot harder than mine XD ! So, here's a look at where I'm at... Thx again for the expertise sharing! kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3zdmWCspNl7prM

[@explainedinenglish]

Amazing content and explanations. Thank you for taking the time to explain the process in such an easy-to-understand way.

[@RockinWalls]

Glad it was helpful!

[@edivaughan1746]

Helpful share thank you very much all for your generous time. Be safe.

[@RockinWalls]

My pleasure!

[@toobglued]

Very well distributed information. Concise and to the point. too often do we see youtube videos and the people just ramble on equivocating and overstating the most basic of points. You have done a nice job with 15 minutes.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you for your feedback Toobglued

[@oliverblackmer8266]

This is an absolutely awesome video. Amazing incorporation of those posters near the beginning! I;m gonna watch the rest of your videos now.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you. Yes the DSWA-GB posters are amazing training tool.

[@larryswindcatcher]

Thanks for the specs. Downloaded for reference as I am going to build some very long dry retainer walls. I was going to use some grout but thanks to you, that will not be necessary.

[@RockinWalls]

How's the project coming along. Dry all the way. If you don't like something you can always take it apart. Or pay someone else to and just sell the stone. LoL. Keep Rockin'

[@MrNikosnik]

Respect for making those big sheets for us. Thank you.

[@RockinWalls]

Teaching aids we use at our training center. Some times a picture or poster can say it all...thank you. Big thanks goes out the DSWA-GB.

[@erickonnig3021]

@@RockinWalls I thought the pictures looked familiar (from 30 years ago ! )

[@jeffmaurer7140]

Well spoken sir, fast articulate right to the point. Thank you

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Jeff.

[@harrisonhunter7512]

I'm starting my own first wall and your content & knowledge has helped me out a great deal thank you for this. 👍

[@RockinWalls]

Happy it helped you. That's why I do what I do! Love to share.

[@brucecurrie6913]

Excellent info and well presented. Thanks from North Yorkshire... where we have hundreds of miles of dry stone walls! Fortunately, I've just got a 30ft section of banking to rebuild and appreciate your 'refresher' course :)

[@aussievaliant4949]

Thank you very much- very clear and instructive. I've never tried to do this before, but this gives me confidence to have a go! My wife and I have an ambitious project in mind. The biggest lesson from this is to get the basics right, and take your time.

[@RockinWalls]

Just like anything in life a good foundation is the start of any long lasting relationship...home, structure....

[@shizzydeep6867]

Great video. I am saving this one for when I build my own wall. it has everything (and more) than all the other wall building videos I've watched on youtube and I've watched a ton.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Shizzy happy you found good content. That's why I do what I do. No ads, no kick backs just content to help others. Lord knows the internet is full of incorrect content. SAD but true!

[@sleepermd2]

This information is invaluable and difficult to find. Thank you!!!

[@teixeiraneves8027]

You are a natural teacher. Rock on!!!!!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Teixeira I love teaching what I love with others. Like so many have done for me. www.RWTrainingCenter.com I even started a training center here in Maryland back in 2014

[@christianlibertarian5488]

Very informative, to the point. No wasted time or words, but really helpful.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Christian

[@KevinLopez-vf1wk]

Hello and thank you for these tips. I'm making a memorial at my home for my brother who passed away this past Christmas. This will be my first attempt at stone work. I have tons of rip rap that I have bought from the local quarry. It's all native to Arizona. I live in Tucson.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Kevin, that's great you are doing something in memory. Just be sure to let the stone be the stone, rip rap is a different game. Just look for shapes and don't think about it.

[@smoothoperator7306]

This is best video I ever seen about wall construction. Thank You very much. You are great master .

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you. By no means I'm I a master. Currently only a level 3 Advanced (1 of 12 in US at this time) with the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain and Instructor certified along with Level 2 Journeyman with the Dry Stone Concervancy in US. I'm working towards DSWA Masters. In time.😊

[@chrisriff4349]

a lot of great info.. to the defense of the previous repair work that was done .. I doubt that they had the budget to essentially double the amount of face stones and build this the way it is being properly restored right now.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Christian, First thank you. As to your thoughts maybe at a first glance this could make sense. When you look harder not likely the case. Heres why...first hard to know the dating of the original walls. It has been documented as for 2 repairs 1) CCC period of great depression 2) 1980's with the HPTC National Park Service. The 1980 repair has gravel and mortar on the top 3 course. The cost of these service and material hauling and extra excavating. Would far exceeded the cost of putting the old stone back if it was there in the first place from the CCC build. Even if it was not it would require less excavating and bulk quarries rip rap could have been used for the back walls. In addition no heavy equipment would have been necessary as shown in the NPS Hopewell Furnaces outlined historical project history documents open to the public. Which can be found on the internet. The best part was this was outlined as a 5 year project it took less then 6 weeks working 4 days a week 10 hours. The sections which were repaired happened to be at least 1/3 of this wall section. The crew was less then 5 of which only 2 had any masonary skills many of the others recieved on site job training. This was why I was brought on for a couple weeks to get them started in the right direction. Even though the HPTC is a division of the national park service they still charge as much a private contractor. If commerical jobs didn't have to go threw so many hands to get the end result. We would have alot more money which could be applied to needed park repairs in the US. Just the way the system is set up. Sad really. Thank you for your thoughts and comments. Mark

[@joewachs3333]

Best video I've seen on this subject! KZbin should reward every instructional video that includes oversized instructional paper printouts with double Likes and Page Views! This video was a funny reminder to me that no matter how convenient it is for me to Google something or come to KZbin for an answer, I should pick up a book or instructional guide and read every now and then. Ha! (But seriously, great video! Thanks!)

[@RockinWalls]

Thankfully I just happen to have those from my training center. They do really help people see the basics. Thank you!

[@apsingh18]

Very nicely explained. Keep up the good work

[@armandogavilan1815]

Damn, at first I saw that wall as perfect, specially compared to mines, thanks for the lesson.

[@RockinWalls]

Sounds like you love dry laid stone as much as me! TY Mark

[@ShaneMclane-PrivateEye]

Excellent tutorial. Can you guys make a video on how to build a castle using the dry stone technique? Im trying to turn my homeless camp here at the river bed into something special.

[@RockinWalls]

🤣 If you're already living by the river bed, I don't think anything could make that any more special.

[@tomzeedee]

Very helpful video, great work..fits in well to the landscape..

[@Virtual-Media]

Great advice, greatly appreciate you sharing your knowledge.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Virtual Media I've learned from the best.

[@Mukundanghri]

This is great addition to a book I'm reading, "The Art of The Stonemason", by Ian Cramb.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Mukundanghri. Yup I love that one! As much as I use to hate reading. I can't get enough when it comes to stone books. LOL

[@susanbartlett5932]

Very informative, thanks, I learnt quite a few tips.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Susan, thank you happy you took the time to watch and comment. Mark

[@willsheehan2975]

Awesome video I feel like I learned a lot, great crash course on building stone walls.

[@lynns3655]

Excellent THX someone that knows what they are doing

[@LewisTwigg]

Great video for a young apprentice

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you

[@shakejones]

excellent video and great information mate! thank you for sharing!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you

[@MrRomantic69]

I took a dry stone conservancy class there back in 2010 where we rebuilt those dry stone walls. The instructor was Neil Rippingdale and although i learned alot at the time i believe i learned more from this video that he taught that day. He did not want to be there it seemed. thanks for the video

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Albert, Neil Rippingale was my instructor for years too down in KY at the DSC Shaker Village! I actually have him back at my training site this year 2019 April teaching. www.RWTrainingCenter.com, Well I can tell you we all have our good and bad days. Truly one of my favorites! If I had to guess I would say about 70% of my knowledge and terminology was from Neil. I'm happy you got a lot out of the video. It is truly action packed!

[@Mikepgaffney]

That was an education. Thank you for sharing!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you. My pleasure happy you found it helpful.

[@howardbent5437]

This video is pure class 👍

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Howard! I love to share what I've learned from others. 🙂

[@anthonydonnelly2018]

This kid knows his stuff.

[@RockinWalls]

I'm just sharing what I learned from others. Thank you.

[@shelleyfontaine7188]

Great instructions. Thank you.

[@RockinWalls]

You are welcome!

[@tszwar]

Thank you so much for the video, you really know your stuff!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Amigo. Stone teaches me something new everyday when I'm listing

[@seeingyouontube]

Great job with the video! I’m struggling after hiring a guy to create a couple of low retaining walls along ascending road & upslope in Northern CA. The laborer put in a concrete footing with rebar whereas I’d prefer a crushed granite base and beginning the stone a few inches below the road. It’s done but I’m willing to bite the bullet, remove the concrete, start over to get the best looking wall. Do you agree or can I work with a concrete footer? I’m not assured this is the right guy for the job after speaking with another who can put in a wall without mortar and makes better sense. Added concern- we are in earthquake territory.

[@Yourgolfplace]

well done, great info and love the trade tips too - not just fluff n guff but practical info we can put into action. Cheers

[@RockinWalls]

Very true, not just another "DIY" video the real deal to help other help understand proper building methods.

[@misaqueducy8626]

Best video on techniques I've seen so far.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Misaque

[@HenryoShelton]

Super helpful, thank you

[@jameshopkins950]

nice instructional video! very helpful

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you James. Happy you found it helpful!

[@ricardohernandez2771]

Muchas gracias

[@denisthomas4232]

Howdy! this is awesome and very helpful. If you're just doing about a 2 - 3 course wall (knee high), do you recommend the double wall method? I'm just kind of doing a crescent wall around the outer corner of my patio on its high side. The only thing I worry about is a small tree i plan to put in the bed it will create.

[@RockinWalls]

Yes short walls under 2 ft I normally build 2 ft wide. Mainly so I have lots of room for a nice cap stone when I get to the top.

[@1voluntaryist]

Just what I was looking for, the best info because it doesn't recommend digging a trench.

[@RockinWalls]

Yes correct no trench or gravel! Just a matter of taking off the top layer of organic material to place your largest average stone down on earth for the foundation. Flexable and free draining.

[@rescuemay]

lol the whispering of youtube XD. Great video!

[@RockinWalls]

Ya I agree that was pretty funny!

[@mikah4051]

Excellent demo

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you.

[@missinginbc]

Thank you so much for the detail!

[@schoenbaard]

Great video thanks

[@RockinWalls]

Than you for your comment!

[@christopherfitch7705]

Pretty solid overall one thing I didn't hear: have the patience to save out nicest stone for the top. Also pay attention to any drainage issues. We like to use fabric behind retaining wall before backfilling.Keeps soil in place so it doesn't wash through and come out the face

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Christopher, Thank you. Very true patience is key for building any stone wall along with stepping back and looking. Also knowing your walling ingredients is important. Designing any wall starts at the top. Knowing how it will be finished based on purpose and function. Then having the stones you need. (www.rockinwalls.com/2012/03/how-to-wall-stone-ingredients.html) Drainage issues is also a great point many overlook. The best thing to remember is know that you can not stop water but you can redirect it. Sadly I would have to inform you Filter Fabric, or landscape cloth could cause hydraulic pressure over time when it back up with silt. As Master Craftsman DSC & DSWA Neil Rippingale (ptn.org/askins/neil-rippingale) explained it to me as coffee grinds in a coffee filter over time it will just stop any water from getting threw then clog. Just like a wall this will then push the wall over. When a wall is retaining wall is built correctly using the Standards used worldwide by the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain. Keep in mind I believe in real life examples not "Experts" Such example can be seen SKARA BRAE 5000-7000 years old en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skara_Brae There are 3 different proper styles of retaining wall based on stone types. I build a Yorkshire Style which is double sided with packing stone in the middle. Soil doesn't typically come thru walls and if silt does its ok. Better to be free draining and flexible then a dam up ready to blow. Watch any Dirt Monkey Videos on Pavers you'll see great examples of WHY NOT. (kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGrdmnmsa7ZgbM0) One great alternative if you feel you have to use a fabric because its been spec'd my an engineer. Instead keep it on the top of back side. Master Craftsman Chris Tanguay Master Craftsman DSWA-GB, DSC-US Examiner / Instructor explained to me how he does it by weaving it under the bottom of back second course of stone. Keeping it below the earth enough to place soil on top but still get to in order to plant plants. This is a great alternative since you can replace it over time easily. I don't build with any gravel or fabric on back sides. Just good old earth. Hope this helps you and others know the truth. Just don't take it from me look at Historical structures standing the test of time. Mark Jurus Certified: DSWA Instructor, Dry Stone Professional Waller Level 2 Journeyman DSC - Dry Stone Conservancy US Level 3 Advanced DSWA - Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain First Aid ~ CPR ~ AED BFA - Visual Communication Graphic Design MICA - Maryland Institute College of Art

[@shizzydee7341]

Excellent explanation and diagrams to go with. I'm quite obsessed with wall building at the moment and this was certainly one of the best videos so far. What about behind the wall? What did you use for drainage and what did they use for drainage back when the wall was built (or did they)?

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Shizzy good to hear you have the stone bug. I use Soil which is free draining. If you have issues with high water flow to the back of a retaining wall it is best to redirect it before it gets to the wall. Grass, Plants, earth berms, earth and stone dry riverbeds.....Or simply building up the back of the top so with a earth ramp so any water flow right over the wall. There is no one answer. Just not gravel is seen in this original wall. It did nothing to help with drainage. This wall shows why not to use gravel. Just use earth which will compact on its own.

[@vladimirvladimirovich8081]

Из Сибири с уважением, Владимир ! Nizhnevartovsk .

[@ratatoskr1069]

Do you have any tips for retaining walls in swampy areas? I would like to secure a higher ground against a low ground that can be submerged in rainy years and seasons.

[@RockinWalls]

Hard to say exactly without seeing the space and knowing the stone type, retaining wall style... I have something similar issue with water all the time from springs. A Masters Neil Rippingale who was the one who built the Black House I had suggest on another video to you. Told me to set the largest stones I had. This way they are a large floater across the area. What I've been doing every year is work closer and closer into the major area of the springs. I'm doing a couple things working to try to build up a as I build in helping to put a little pressure at a time to really help is settle at a natural speed. With the hopes to minimize settling. Also I have a corner which will tie back into the other wall sections. I would be sure to add a lot of tie stones and make sure to follow all key dry stone guidelines to help make a wall system. Each stone working with the others to make ONE.

[@JoeL-mm2lc]

Can you do a video on or at least touch on dry stack retaining walls and water mitigation do's and don'ts? I'm getting ready to start a project in Pennsylvania and can't find any consensual information about it. You mention the aggregate in this video and it sounded like you didn't think it was good which had me wondering.

[@RockinWalls]

A dry laid stone wall is flexable and free draining. Why would you need gravel? You don't want water to get into the back of the wall. Think of soil as a slow draining filter. Gravel is a fast draining filter. Which will cause more damage then good. If you live in PA look at any of the old railroad retaining walls. Lots of great examples in PA wet and dry! Jim Thorpe is full of some amazing dry stone walls. NO gravel! NO Geo grid or Landscape cloth! Water is a site to site situation. Just remember you can never stop water only redirect. Good vegetation and earth ramping at top of wall are very helpful. Pick up a copy of the Dry Stone Practical Hand book from the The Stone Trust or Dry Stone Concervance. Also consider coming down and taking a workshop at the Rockin Walls Training Center, Spring or Fall.

[@donnya205]

Great video!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Donny!

[@aeroboy002]

Thanks a lot for sharing ur knowledge from India wow!

[@RockinWalls]

THANK YOU

[@frankryan8100]

"The reason they prolly did that ...." I love MD and PA.

[@RockinWalls]

LOL you should hear how we say HON!

[@frankhazzard3250]

Other videos tell people to put landscape fabric and gravel behind a dry-stack retaining wall. I'm not sure what you said, but if I understood you correctly, you said just let the earth rest up against back of the wall. Which do you do? Thanks.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Frank, NO NO NO. (short answer DIRT is best) That's a great question which comes up more than you could imagine. The first question I would have, Are the other folks in the videos Certified Wallers? By the DSWA (Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain) or DSC (Dry Stone Conservancy US) I'm currently only 1 of 13 at my Advanced Level 3 DSWA in the US along with instructor certified and Dual certified with the DSC at Journeyman Level 2. This doesn't mean a thing except for the fact that I've read every possible book from both the DSWA/DSC and other authors who are Master wallers. Not one suggest gravel nor landscape cloth. By no means not being a expert I like to look at Historical Structures. Some of the oldest known structures such as the Skara Brae in UK is believed to be 5000-7000 years, then you have Machu Picchu around 600 years old. All stand tall without landscape cloth nor gravel. Anyone can sell you anything tell you it's the best. Show me it will stand the test of time from mother nature then I'll believe it works. Landscape cloth or geo grid is a petroleum based product which will break down. The other issue with landscape cloth is that fined could cause it to clog then you will have hydraulic pressure. Better to have a living wall build correctly according the the standards of the DSWA or DSC. I've taken apart walls to rebuild or move and they were 100 plus years with no issues and some had building techniques not according to dry stone walling standards. They were still working with no failures!

[@frankhazzard3250]

@@RockinWalls Thanks for clarifying. My father and I are going to attempt a dry-stack retaining wall this spring in Maryland. I'll let you know how it goes.

[@RockinWalls]

You should think about taking a workshop at my training center come fall. Spring workshops cancel with the current pandemic. www.RWTrainingCenter.com

[@luutas]

Hands up! Thank you so much

[@johnbosco8209]

It is a very good explanation

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you John. I love to share what I've learned from others.

[@shaidyn8278]

So funny. They mentioned the preservation society at the start. And as soon as I saw their diagram I realized I'd seen a video from the 80s on youtube from that same society showing that same diagram.

[@RockinWalls]

Actually these are not from the preservation society. They are from the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain. DSWA So yes you might have seen them from them since they have been around since the 1960s. 🙂

[@adamchirico7724]

Thank you so much for your knowledge

[@RockinWalls]

Your very welcome Adam thank you for watching, it's what I've learned from others - just passing it on thats all.

[@dimasremigio]

This is a great video. Unfortunately, it hasn't subtitles. As I don't understand English very well, I can't absorb all the informations you gave us. Anyway, great job smart man. Perhaps you put all the text at the descriptions.

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Dimas sorry it didn't translate I thought that was set up. I'll have to look into that. Thank you for trying to watch

[@MisifSaqqa]

thank you

[@RSI77]

Great info thank you

[@RockinWalls]

Very welcome R S. Happy you enjoyed it.

[@CarlDi3trich]

The foundation and tie stones are actually quite important.

[@RockinWalls]

Yes they are. You do realize there are 2 types of foundations correct? Also as a historical National Park Project you have to keep things as they are visually. I was sure to have a back wall installed and remove as much gravel as possible. As long as one is following the majority of the rules such as length in, breaking the joint, stones touching there neighbors. Tie stones are also referred to as through stones. As you have pointed out the are very important? Can you tell our readers starting at what wall height they should be included, what height should they be placed, what spacing on center from each other. What are the bennifits of protruding ties and foundtion. What are the two types of foundations? Well said Carl over looked by many due to ignorance to proper methods.

[@CarlDi3trich]

@@RockinWalls Thanks, Rockin. In a previous video I watched ( I'm just an interested observer ) on the preservation of this art there was a great deal of stress laid on both foundations and through stones. It can be found here. The dimensions and handy diagrams are included for your questions: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIDPoZ2NfMifhtE

[@RockinWalls]

Lol Carl, I was just checking to see If you were taking any notes. The first drawling on my video was mine. Before we get into the answers I just want to say the video you referenced is wonderful (with a few errors). I know Richard well along with the DSC Dry Stone Conservancy. This is the training organization of which I'm certified by for level 2 Journeyman out of 3 levels. Of which are all hands no book work. I'm also Level 3 Advanced out of 4 levels (currently only 1 of 14 in US!) and Instructor Certified by the Dry Stone Walling Association DSWA Great Britain. This is the world wide standard. I also have a training center in Maryland started back in 2014. So I guess you could say I live and breath stone. Now with that said let's get into the facts and details. There are 2 types of foundations both set on or in earth after removing the top vegetation to find solid soil. 1) Below grade protruding is best done with flat beaded stones. The belief of this style is that it gives a larger foot print for the all to set on. By protruding if the wall starts to shift out it still has 4" to move before falling of the foundtion as seen in my first drawling with the posters. Think of it as walking in deep snow with snow moccasins. Bigger foot print keeps you from sinking. Normal rule of thumb is 4" on each side of the first course of wall. 2) First course above but dug into earth. Typically the first wall course. This is the method used in this video to stay with the historical history of the wall. This can be with flat bedded stone (Typically your largest stones)or boulders. You couldn't build a protruding below grade foundation with boulders. Which I'll go over at the end. Tie stones facts: • Typically placed 36" on center but could go to 40". • Protruding ties are just like the foundtion. The second lift has something to grab onto if the wall shifts out. I normally have my ties stick out a min of 2"-3" • Tie stones can also be flush to the wall. This is important say in areas people or animals may travel say steps. Or a farm wall so the sheep can't jump up as stairs to get over a wall. Or cattle so they don't rub there butts on them. • Tie stones are placed knee height say 18" give or take on a 36" - 48" high wall. • Walls say 5' or higher would then have staggered tie stone and 2 courses. So one set at 18" the next at 36". • Walls starting at 30" should have tie stones. I personally put them in on walls that are 36" or taller. • Not all walls can have tie stones. For example boulder walls or slate walls. With slate all stones are ties almost. So to sum it up. A solid foundtion is key just like any home or relationship. With out putting a great deal of time to make it right everything else will fall apart over time. While there are no specific guidelines wallers try to follow key rules as seen in the video on the poster. Stone types dictate the wall style and construction methods. There is no one type of stone which means there are no one set of specs. You must work with the stone and build with what you have at hand. If you do not have long stones for ties and can't get them you have to go with out. If you have a new construction in the US with stone your buying there is no excuse not to design the wall with them (if over 30"). Using the best suited stone for the desired look and structural methods needed to achieve them. There are some really good books out there if you would like to learn more. Or come take a workshop. Working with stone teaches you so many life lessons. I love learning from stone and other wallers! This is why I've invested in certifications. Hope you found this helpful! - Mark

[@CarlDi3trich]

@@RockinWalls Appreciate the response and information, Mark! My wife and I currently live in an apartment so no site, as of yet, to build. At some point in the future we'll have some property and there will definitely be opportunities. Keep it up and perhaps someday we'll lay some stones.

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Carl! You as well.

[@codyminecrack248]

Grand. Thanks!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you so much.

[@erickonnig3021]

Those diagrams look oddly familiar ... I think I saw them 30 years ago from the British Dry Stone Wall Association ;) I spent a week learning on a "work for food holiday"... now 30 years later I have land to apply this .

[@RockinWalls]

You are correct DSWA-GB just like stone walls not much has changes in 30 years. LOL!

[@Hidegety1]

this is very good vid and i saw a few on this topic already

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you. There is a lot of wrong info on the internet. Happy you liked it.

[@OscarSotomayor]

Very nice video man..

[@lkhlkhlkhfghjtv1]

great job

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you so much. Mark

[@user-wq6hr9xi2n]

Nice, useful vid! Hi Travis!

[@larry6406]

Cool video man...very informative! I hope you make a ton of money!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Mr. Larry Not in it for the money. Learned with stone that it's not about chasing the mighty buck but instead to find happiness. Creating with stone makes me happy. Of Course I know what you really meant so thank you for your time and comment.

[@robviolin1]

Helpful, thanks 👍

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you! I 👍

[@marcoantoniotapia2314]

Necesito capacitación , gracias

[@brianvolpe3242]

Awesome!!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you again Brian

[@ocruadlaoic]

This was good .

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you!

[@tnickknight]

Good Visuals

[@georgegibson707]

I wonder whether a retaining wall would last longer if the back face was battered back, along with the front face.

[@RockinWalls]

Most retaining walls are built with a the back 1:12 batter which is typical. ? last longer is a matter of stone type along with if proper building methods were used and correctly.

[@foenerrooo]

bomb info, thanks mate

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Leo. This was a fun project to work on.

[@MariaSocorro-nq6ov]

Amei vou fazerem

[@skyadventurer7574]

I’m working on a very similar wall at a location less than an hour from there. The stone looks about the same; only difference is I’m not getting stone from a quarry or anything- nothing fits together! I’ve never done masonry before this, been working on it since spring and I’m getting frustrated with it. None of my blocks are even in size, hardly any of them have clean faces, I’m doing my best but I’m losing steam :,)

[@skyadventurer7574]

Listen, I’m getting so overwhelmed and frustrated with this- but I’m gonna revisit this video and visit that wall and figure this thing out!!!

[@RockinWalls]

Done of the stone for this project came from a quarry. I actually found a bus company in the area which just so happened to have a huge pile on there lot. I find when working.oit.of piles of stone simply just take the time to look at different sections of what your building. Often, you'll find a stone right on top. You can place some we're else in the wall. So basically, I like to jump around. Also, whenever you get to a point, you get frustrated, stop and pack the wall.or work on the back wall. I found that when I first started, I was thinking too much or looking too hard for the right stone. Just have fun trying the It Looks Good method and just keeps moving. It takes years to learn how to read stone. Just have fun and enjoy the process. Stone teaches us life lessons every day. You just have to listen. Workshops happen this Fall & Spring in Hampstead Maryland. You're only a little over 2 hours away. Just in case! 😊 - Mark

[@gingie421]

Thanks! Very informative! Travis is awesome 😀

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Sam Travis is awesome and a real joy to work with!

[@zerozilch]

Do you ever weave like a infinity circle pattern an pack the heart of the two circles weaving as u go in the layers between base an mid or heavier top stone in a double wall .

[@RockinWalls]

Hello Eric Not sure I totally follow you. A typical Yorkshire Retaining wall is front and back with large to small packing stones placed between the two walls. You may find this blog helpful. www.rockinwalls.com/2018/07/hearting-heart-of-wall.html

[@jakedarby101yahoo]

"Stewn" Love the accent!

[@RockinWalls]

Yup got to love our east coast accents. Lol

[@MrNiceCobra]

Very good explanation! Thank you!

[@RockinWalls]

Thank you Alex

[@hatzlmike1]

Great stuff

[@troymcconnell6147]

thanks for the great video!

[@RockinWalls]

Your very welcome Troy!